F 1233 
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Copy 1 




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39th Congress, \ HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES. ( Ex. Doc. 

2d Session. J \ No. 76. 



MESSAGE 



PRESIDENT OF THE UMTED . STATES, 



JANUARY 29, 1867, 



RELATING TO 



THE PRESENT CONDITION OF MEXICO, 



IN ANSWER TO 



Pfc< A RESOLUTION OF THE HOUSE OF DECEMBER 4, 1866. 

/ 



*.:' . 



WASHINGTON: 

GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE 

1867. 



F ia33 




MESSAGE 

FROM THE 

PRESIDENT OF TEE UNITED STATES, 



IN ANSWER TO 



A resolution of the House of December 4, last, relative to the present condition 

of Mexico. 



February 1, 1867. — Referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs and ordered to be printed. 



To the House of Representatives : 

In compliance with the resolution of the House of Representatives of the 
4th of December last, requesting information upon the present condition of 
affairs in the republic of Mexico, and with one of the 18th of the same month, 
desiring me to communicate to the House of Representatives copies of all cor- 
respondence on the subject of the evacuation of Mexico by the French troops, 
not before officially published, I transmit a report from the Secretary of State, 
and the papers accompanying it. 

ANDREW JOHNSON. 
"Washington, January 29, 1867. 



Department of State, 

Washington, January 29, 1867. 

The Secretary of State, to whom was referred the resolution of the House of 
Representatives of the 4th of December, 1866, requesting the President, " if 
in his opinion not incompatible with the public interest, to communicate to this 
House any correspondence or other information in possession of the government 
relative to the present condition of affairs in our sister republic of Mexico, and 
especially any letters of the minister at Washington from said republic, and the 
French minister relating thereto;" also the resolution of the 18th of December, 
1866, requesting the President "to communicate to this house copies of all 
correspondence on the subject of the evacuation of Mexico by the French 
troops which has not heretofore been officially published," has the honor to lay 
before the President the papers mentioned in the subjoined list. 

Respectfully submitted : 

WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 

The President. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 



LIST OF PAPERS 



No. L— Condition of Affairs en M 



1. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward Mar. 20 

2. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero fitly 5, 

3. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward April 2, 

4. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero July 5 

5. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward \pril 1 1 

6". Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero July 5 

7. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward April 15, 

8. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero July 5. 

9. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward Mny 9. 

10. Same to aame May 18 

11. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero July 6 

12. Mr. Romero to Mr, Seward May 

13. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero July 7, 

14. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward June 10 

15. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero July 7 

16. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward June 14 

17. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero July 7 

18. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward June 19 

19. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero July 7 

20. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward July 4 

21. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero July 12, 

22. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward July 8, 

2:j. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero July 16. 

24. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward July 10 

25. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero July 23 

2G. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward July 21 

27. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero July 31 

28. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward July 21 

29. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero July 25. 

30. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward July 24 

31. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero July 30 

32. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward July 31 

33. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero Aug. 5 

34. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward Aug. 

35. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero Aug. 10. 

36. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward Aug. 15, 

37. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero Aug. 23, 

38. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward Aug. 26. 

39. Mr. Hunter to Mr. Romero Aug. 30. 

40. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward Aug. 27, 

41. Mr. Hunter to Mr. Romero Aug. 30. 

42. Mr. F. W. Seward to Mr. Romero.. Sept. 20 

43. Mr. Romero to Mr. F. W. Seward. -Sept. 2() : 

44. Mr. F."VV. Seward to Mr. Romero.. Sept. 21 

45. Mr. Romero to Mr. F. W. Seward. .Sept. 21 

46. Mr. Romero to Mr. F. "W. Seward -Sept. 23 

47. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward Sept. 24 

48. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero Oct. 2 

49. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward Sept. 30 

50. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero Oct. 

51. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward Oct. 



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52. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero Oct IS 

5:1. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward on. 10,1866 

51. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero Ocl L5 

55. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward Oct 12,1866 

56. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero Nov. 15,1866 

57. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward Nov. 5,1866 

58. Mr. Seward to Mr, Romero Nov. 13,1860 

59. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward Nov. . 9, 1866 

60. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero Nov. ] 

61. Mr. KomerotoMr. F. W. SVward. .Nov. 16,1866 

62. 3Ir. Seward to Mr. Romero Nov. 20, 1866 

63. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward Nov. 20, 1866 

6-1. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero Nov. 29,1866 

65. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward Nov. -. 

66. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero Nov. 29, 1866 

67. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward Dec. 14,1866 

68. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero Dec. 17, 1866 

69. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward Deo. 21 

70. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero Jan. 

71. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward Dec. 22,1860 

72. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero Jan. 

73. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward I). . 

74. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero Jan. 2, 1867 

No. 2.— Military Operations of the North- 
ern Division. 

75. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward April 8,1866 

76. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero July 19,1866 

77. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward April 25,1866 

78. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero July 6, 1866 

79. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward A pril 2G, 1 866 

80. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward Aug. 1 

81. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero Aug. - 

82. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward Nov. 2 i 

83. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero 1 >■ ,-. .-. !-- 

No. 3.— Military Operations or the "Western 
Division. 

84. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward April 8, 1806 

85. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero July 5, 1866 

SC>. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward June J I 

b7. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero July 7, 1866 

88. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward Inly 6, 1866 

89. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero July 12, 1866 

90. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward Nov. 25,1866 

91. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero Dec. 8, 1866 

No. 4.— Military Operations of the Central 
Division. 

92. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward April 21. 1866 

93. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero July 7, 1866 

94. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward Aug. 22, 1866 

95. Mr. Hunter to Mr. Romero Aug. 28, 1866 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 



96. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward Sept. 21,1866 

97. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero Sept. 24, 1866 

Ho. 5.— Military Operations of the Eastern- 

DIVISION. 

98. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward June 10, 1866 

99. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero July 7, 1866 

100. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward July 13, 1866 

101. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero July 19, 1866 

102. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward Oct. 6, 1866 

103. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero Oct. 12, 1866 

104. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward Oct. 21, 1866 

105. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero Dec 21,1866 

106. Mr.' Romero to Mr. Seward Nov. 20,1866 

107. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero Nov. 30, 1866 

No. 6.— The Presidential Term of President 
Juarez. 

108. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward June 13, 1866 

109. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero July 7, 1866 

110. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward Nov. 1, 1866 

111. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero Nov. 9, 1866 

112. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward Nov. 21, 1866 

113. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero ...... Nov. 28, 1866 

No. 7. — Concerning de Santa Anna. 

114. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward May 26, 1866 

115. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero July 6, 1866 

116. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward Aug. 12, 1866 

117. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero Aug. 20, 1866 

118. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward Sept. 29, 1866 

11 9. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero Oct. 9, 1866 

120. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward Nov. 16, 1866 

121. Senor de Santa Anna to Mr. Se- 
ward Dec. 12, 1865 

122. Sameto same May 21,1866 

123. Senor Maguera to Mr. F. W. Se- 
ward May 26, 1866 

124. Senor de Santa Anna to Mr. Se- 
ward June 26, 1866 

125. Sameto same Aug. 10, 1866 

126. Mr. Seward to Senor de Santa 

Anna Aug. 16, 1866 

127. Don Antonio Lopez de Santa An- 
na, jr., to Mr. Seward Nov. 7, 1866 

128. Mr. Seward to Don Antonio Lopez 

de Santa Anna, jr Nov. 8, 1866 

129. Mr. Seward to Mr. Courtney Nov. 8, 1866 

130. Mr. Courtney to Mr. Seward Nov. 14, 1866 

131. Mr. Seward to Senor de Santa 

Anna Dec. 8, 1866 

No. 8.— Concerning General Ortega. 

132. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward Oct, 31, 1866 

133. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero Nov. 13, i860 

134. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward Dec. 8, 1866 

135. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero Dec. 17, 1866 

136. Mr. Stanton to Mr. Seward Dec. 8, 1866 



No. 9.— Custom-house Duties at Acapulco. 

137. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward May 3, 1866 

138. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero July 6, 1866 

139. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward Oct. 8, 1866 

140. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero Oct. 12, 1866 

No. 10.— Case of Schooner " Solid ad Cos." 

141. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero April 17, 1866 

142. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward April 17, 1866 

No. 11.— Seat of the Mexican Government. 

143. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward Aug. 6, 1866 

144. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero Aug. 16, 1866 

No. 12. —Exportation of Arms. 

145. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward Mar. 24, 1866 

146. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero Mar. 24, 1866 

147. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward Mar. 25, 1866 

148. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero April 18, 1866 

No. 13.— Southern Immigration to Mexico. 

149. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward Aug. 3, 1866 

150. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero Aug. 16, 1866 

151. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward Dec. 12, 1866 

152. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero Dec. 20, 1806 

No. 14.— Affairs at Bagdad. 

153. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward Mar. 30,1866 

154. Same to same Mar. 30,1866 

155. Same to same Mar. 31, 1866 

156. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero April 22, 1866 

157. Same to same June 2, 1866 

158. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward June 4, 1866 

159. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero July 7, 1866 

160. Sameto same Aug. 8,1866 

161. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward Aug. 9, 1866 

No. 15.— Forced Loans at Matamoras. 

162. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero Oct. 20, 1866 

163. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward Oct, 22, 1866 

No. 16.— Occupation of Mexican Territory 
by United States Troops. 

164. Major General Sheridan to General 

Grant Nov. 27, 1866 

165. Mr. Stanton to Major General 

Sheridan Nov. 30, 1866 

166. Major General Sheridan to General 

Grant Nov. 30, 1866 

167. Sametosame Dec. 1,1866 

168. Same to same Dec. 10, 1866 

169. Sametosame Dec. 11,1866 

170. Major General Sheridan to Bvt. 

Major General Rawlings Dec. 11, 1866 

171. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward Dec. 13, 1866 

172. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero Dec. 17, 1866 

No. 17.— Evacuation of Mexico by the French. 

173. Mr. Bigelow to Mr. Seward May 16, 1866 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 



174. Mr. Blgelow to Mr. Seward May :n,186C 

it:.. Mr. Hay to Mr. Seward Aug. 10,1866 

176. Mr. Seward to the Marquis do 
Montholon Aug. It:, 1866 

177. Mr. Hay to Mr. Seward Aug. 17, 1866 

178. Mr. Seward to Mr. Blgelow Aug. 24,1866 

179. Same to same Oct. 8,1866 

180. Same to same Nov. 9,1866 

181. Mr. Seward to Mr. Stanton Nov. 23, 1866 

182. Mr. Seward to Mr. Campbell Nov. 23,1866 

183. Mr. Bigelow to Mr. Seward Nov. 30, 1866 

No. 18.— Correspondence with the United 
States Legation to Mexico. 

184. Mr. Seward to Mr. Campbell Oct. 2, 1866 

185. Mr. Seward to Mr. Campbell . . ..Oct. 20, 1866 

186. The President to Mr. Stanton Oct. 26, 1866 

187. Same to same Oct. 30,1866 

188. Maj. Gen. Sheridan to Gen. Grant. Nov. 8,1866 

189. Mr. Campbell to Mr. Seward Nov. 9, 1866 

190. Mr. Seward to Mr. Campbell Nov. 9, 1866 

191. Mr. Campbell to Mr. Seward Nov. 21,1866 

192. Same to same Nov. 23,1866 

193. Mr. Seward to Mr. Campbell Nov. 30,1866 

194. Mr. Campbell to Mr. Seward Dec. 1, 1866 

195. Same to same Dec. 1,1866 

196. Mr. Seward to Mr. Campbell Dec. 15, 1866 

197. Same to same Dec. 6, 1866 

198. Mr. Campbell to Mr. Seward Dec. 13, 1866 

199. Mr. Seward to Mr. Campbell Dec. 27,1866 

200. Mr. Campbell to Mr. Seward Dec. 24, 1866 

201. Mr. Seward to Mr. Campbell Dec. 29, 1866 

202. Mr. Campbell to Mr. Seward Dec. 24, 1866 

203. Mr. Seward to Mr. Campbell Dec. 25, 1866 

204. Mr. Campbell to Mr. Seward Dec. 31, 1866 

205. Mr. Seward to Mr. Campbell Jan. 14, 1867 

No. 19.— Correspondence on the Mexican- 
question with Legations of the United 
States in Europe. 

England. 

206. Mr. Seward to Mr. Adams Dec. 21,1864 

207. Same to same Feb. 7,1865 

208. Mr. Adams to Mr. Seward Feb. 9,1865 

209. Sametosame Feb. 17,1865 

210. Sametosame Feb- 23,1865 

211. Mr. Seward to Mr. Adams Mar. 25, 1865 

212. Mr. Adams to Mr. Seward June 2,1865 

France. 

213. Mr. Dayton to Mr. Seward Mar. 25,1864 

214. Mr. Seward to Mr. Dayton April 7, 1864 

215. Mr. Seward to Mr. Bigelow Feb. 13, 1865 

216. Mr. Bigelow to Mr. Seward Mar. 10,1865 

217. Sametosame Mar. 17,1865 

218. Mr. Seward to Mr. Bigelow Mar. 27,1865 

219. Same to same Mar. 30, 1865 

220. Mr. Bigelow to Mr. Seward April 17, 1865 



221. Mr. Hunter to Mr. Bigelow Oct. 19,186.5 

222. Mr. Si war d to .Mr. Blgelow Oct. 30,1865 

Austria. 

:. Motley to Mr. Seward Feb. 13,1865 

■jui. Same to Bame Feb. 26,1865 

225. Mr. Motley to Mr. Hunter Juno 5,1865 

Prussia. 

226. Mr. Wright to Mr. Seward Nov. 15,1865 

Belgium. 

227. Mr. Sanford to Mr. Seward Feb. 1, If'", 

228. Mr. Sanford to Mr. Seward Mar. 13, 1865 

229. Sametosame April 12, 1865 

230. Sametosame May 29,1865 

231. Sametosame May 31,1865 

Italy. 

232. Mr. Marsh to Mr. Hunter May 15, 1865 

233. Same to same June 5, 1865 

234. Sametosame June 29, 1865 

Rome. 

235. Mr. King to Mr. Seward Mar. 4, 1865 

236. Sametosame April 22, 1865 

237. Sametosame May 24,1865 

238. Mr. King to Mr. Hunter June 2, 1865 

Netherlands. 

239. Mr. P.ke to Mr. Hunter May 17,1865 

240. Mr. Pike to Mr. Seward Oct. 18, 1865 

Sweden and Norway. 

241. Mr. Campbell to Mr. Seward ....Sept. 27,1864 

242. Sametosame Nov. 5,1864 

243. Sametosame Dee. 13,1864 

244. Mr. Seward to Mr. Campbell Jan. 10, 1865 

245. Mr. Morris to Mr. Seward Mar. 29, 1865 

246. Mr. Morris to Mr. Hunter May 18, 1865 

247. Same to same May 25, 1865 

248. Mr. Seward to Mr. Mon-i* Sept. 21,1865 

249. Mr. Morris to Mr. Seward Oct. 29, 1865 

Egypt. 

250. Mr. Hale to Mr. Seward Aug. 26, 1865 

251. Mr. Seward to Mr. Hale Sept. 21, 1865 

252. Mr. Hale to Mr. Seward Oct, 27, 1865 

253. Same to same Nov. 13, 1865 

254. Sametosame Nov. 18,1865 

255. Mr. Seward to Mr. Hale Nov. 27, 1865 

256. Mr. Hale to Mr. Seward Nov. 27, 1865 

Morocco. 

257. Mr. Perry to Mr. Seward Dec. 17, 1864 

No. 20.— TEHUANTErr.c Transit Company. 

258. Mr. Seward to Mr. Roberts Dec. 13, 1866 

259. Mr. Seward to Mr. Campbell Dec. 15, 1866 

260. Mr. Roberts to Mr. Seward Dec. 21,1866 

261. Mr. Seward to Mr. Roberts Dec. 26, 1866 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 5 

No. 1. 

CONDITION OF AFFAIES IN MEXICO. 

List of papers. 
No. 

1. Mr. Eomero to Mr. Seward March 20, 1866. 

2. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero July 5, 1S66. 

3. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward April 2, 1866. 

4. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero July 5, 1866. 

5. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward April 14, 1866. 

6. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero July 5, 1866. 

7. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward .'. - . April 15, 1866. 

8. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero , July 5, 1866. 

9. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward May 9, 1S66. 

10. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward May 18, 1866. 

11. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero July 6, 1866. 

12. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward. May 28, 1866. 

13. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero July 7, 1866. 

14. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward June 10, 1866. 

15. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero JitIv 7, 1866. 

16. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward June 14, 1866. 

17. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero July 7, 1866. 

18. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward June 19, 1866. 

19. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero July 7, 1866. 

20. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward July 4, 1866. 

21. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero. July 12, 1866. 

22. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward July 8, 1866. 

23. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero July 16, 1866. 

24. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward July 10, 1866. 

25. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero July 23, 1S66. 

26. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward July 21, 1 866. 

27. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero July 31, 1866. 

28. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward July 21, 1866. 

29. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero July 25, 1866. 

30. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward July 24, 1S66. 

31. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero July 30, 1866. 

32. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward July 31, 1866. 

33. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero , Aug. 5, 1866. 

34. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward Aug. 9, 1866. 

35. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero Aug. 16, 1866. 

36. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward Aug. 15, 1866. 

37. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero Aug. 23, 1866. 

38. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward Aug. 26, 1866. 

39. Mr. Hunter to Mr. Romero Aug. 30, 1866. 

40. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward Aug. 27, 1866. 

41. Mr. Hunter to Mr. Romero Aug. 30, 1866. 

42. Mr. F. W. Seward to Mr. Romero Sept. 20, 1866. 

43. Mr. Romero to Mr. F. W. Seward , Sept. 20, 1866. 

44. Mr. F. W. Seward to Mr. Romero Sept. 21, 1866. 

45. Mr. Romero to Mr. F. W. Seward . . . Sept. 21, 1866. 

46. Mr. Romero to Mr. F. W. Seward Sept. 23, 1S66. 

47. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward Sept. 24, 1866. 

48. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero Oct. 2, 1866. 

49. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward Sept. 30, 1866. 

50. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero Oct. 9, 1S66. 



G CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

51. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward Oct. 5, 1866. 

52. Mr. Seward to Mr.. Romero Oct. 12,1866. 

53. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward Oct. 10, 1866. 

54. .Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero Oct. 1-5, 1866. 

55. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward Oct. 12,1866. 

50. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero Nov. 15, 1866, 

57. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward Nov. 5, 18G6. 

58. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero Nov. 13,1866. 

59. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward Nov. 9, 1866. 

00. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero Nov. 15, 1866. 

61. Mr. Romero to Mr. F. W. Seward Nov. 16,1866. 

62. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero « Nov. 20, 1S66. 

63. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward Nov. 20, 1866. 

64. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero Nov. 29, 1SG6. 

Gf>. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward Nov. 22, 1866. 

66. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero Nov. 29,1866. 

67. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward Dec. 14,1866. 

68. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero Dec. 17, 1866. 

69. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward Dec. 21, 1866. 

70. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero Jan. 9, 1 867. 

71. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward Dec. 22, 1867. 

72. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero Jan. 2, 1867. 

73. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward Dec. 27, 1S66. 

74. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero Jan. 2, 1867. 



No. 1. 

Se/tor Romero to Mr. Seward. 
[Translation. ] 

Mexican Legation to the United States of America, 

Washington, March 20, 18G6. 

Mr. Secretary : I have the honor to enclose you some extracts from the 
Moniteur Universe], of Paris, containing that portion of deputy Glais-Bizoin's 
speech in the French legislature on the 27th of February last, during the de- 
hate on the discourse from the throne in relation to Mexican affairs. I also 
enclose with this note the brief discussion of tlie same subject in the house, on 
the 2d instant, when Mr. Rouher's (the minister of state) proposal in regard to 
the Mexican expedition was adopted, and the debate upon it reserved for a future 
occasion, against the protests of the opposition. The pretext alleged by Mr. 
Rouher to avoid debate on Mexican affairs was, that certain communications to 
the so-called government of Maximilian had not been answered yet, and, of course, 
no report could be made to the house concerning them. Thus, instead of postpon- 
ing the discussion of the paragraph, the controling influence of the imperial govern- 
ment caused the vote to be taken, and the proposal was adopted. 

I refrain from comment on- this strange proceeding, because I think it unne- 
cessary. 

I profit by the opportunity to repeat to you, Mr. Secretary, the assurances of 
my most distinguished consideration. 

M. ROMERO. 

Hon. William H. Seward, fyc, 8pc., 8fc. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 7 

[From the Moniteur Universel, the official paper of the French empire— Paris, Wednesday, 
January 28, 1866, No. 59, page 222.] 

Mr. Glais-Bizoin, having secured the floor, rises and says : 

Gentlemen : The decree of the 24th of November has granted us the 
right — for we are now living in the reign of grants, like the Restoration, a 
reign very unlike the noble and generous American system, that leaves the peo- 
ple to enjoy their rights and the President to do good or evil for four years — 
I say this decree has granted us the right to express our sentiments concerning 
the management of affairs to the chief power, to show him our wishes and the 
necessities of the country; audit is now our duty to speak truth where flattery 
has prevailed. 

To accomplish this — and here I agree with Mr. Pamard, and it is perhaps the 
only thing in which we agree, [laughter,] — eloquence is not necessary; but we 
must have that holy love of liberty, dearer to us than life itself, and without 
which we would consent to that moral decay in which our country is kept, 

when it should be the leader in progress [Murmurs and exclamations in 

different directions.] 

Granier de Oassagnac. This is too bad ! We will not stand such abuse! 

President Walewski. Mr. Glais-Bizoin, I shall have to call you to order if 
you go on so. I hope you will consider my advice. [Good! good!] 

Glais-Bizoin. Much obliged to you, Mr. President. I was going to say, 
when it should be the leader in progress and emancipation. 

Whatever strength this sentiment gives me, I am embarrassed by the multi- 
plicity of questions suggested by the discourse from the Crown. These ques- 
tions are confused by a fault in the constitution that denies us the right of in- 
troducing a bill, and the power of distributing the business equally through the 
session, and discussing the plans and projects, as was formerly done, and- is still 
practiced in all representative parliamentary governments. 

But we are compelled to accept the situation, whatever it maybe, and to make 
the best of it or the worst of it. [Smiles in parts of the house.] 

These questions may be ranged into two categories : accidental questions, such 
as of finances and foreign affairs, and questions of a permanent interest, touching 
our liberties, which cannot be solved without implicating the constitution. Let 
us consider the first. 

The author of the Crown speech glances over the political globe, wherever French 
arms are engaged, and with the satisfaction of the God that speaks in the book 
of Genesis, says : " Behold, my work is very good !" 

Belmontet. He is right. 

Glais-Bizoin. What does Mr. Belmontet say ? 

Belmontet. I say he is right, the Emperor Napoleon, [Approving laugh.] 

Glais-Bizoin. But he turns away from Poland, once the object of his solici- 
tude, where a death-like silence reigns. 

On beholding our former friend and ally in the north devoured by the double- 
headed eagles of Prussia and Austria, he is pleased and grieved. Can the min- 
ister of state explain these contradictory emotions 1 

At Rome, in Italy, the work is good. ' The convention of the fifteenth of Sep- 
tember will be enforced. 

Gentlemen, we are about to quit Rome, where we went to save the Pope, and 
robbed him of two-thirds of his domain, just lessening his wordly cares by two- 
thirds. [Laughter and applause. J 

We quit Rome with the hate of the ultra-clerical party that called us, and the- 
hate of Romans who never saw armed foreigners before within their walls, and I 
thank them for it. We quit Rome, hated by the republican party, because France 
put it down. And, finally, we quit Rome after spending more than four hundred, 
millions there, the abundant fruits of that expedition. 



8 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

We went to Cochin China to please the ultra-clerical party, and now we are 
obliged to slay there. Algeria is the only place where we are not progressing. 

The author of the Crown Bpeech [interrupted by several members : Why don't 
yon say the emperor ?] glancing towards Mexico, .-ays again : " Behold, my work 
is very good ! there is a government made by the will of the people," and let 
me add, by -10,000 French bayonets. [Sundry exclamations] Gentlemen, that 
is so. 

President WALEWSKI. Mr. Glais-Bizoin, I call you to order; not by 40,000 
bayonets, but by the will of all the French people. 

GuEROULT. Hoes the gentleman mean Mexico? 

JULES Favre. He is called to order on the ernporor Maximilian's account. 

Glais-Bizoin. I think there is a mistake, Mr. President, a misunderstanding 
on your part, and I would like, to proceed with my speech. 

President WALEWSKI. We do not hear you; speak louder, and there will 
be no mistake. 

Glais-Bizoin. I thought so, Mr. President. What I stated was a fact. I 
was saying that the Emperor, in speaking of the government founded by the 
people 

M.\<; my. In Mexico? 

Glais-Bizoin. Yes, in Mexico. 

Several Voices. Why didn't you say so, then ? 

Glais-Bizoin. I began the sentence by saying: Glancing towards Mexico 

Several Members. We did not hear that part. 

Piccioni. As there was a mistake, I hope the call to order will not appear 
in the report. 

Glais-Bizoin. They say that order reigns in Mexico. Yes, order is main- 
tained by Belgian and Austrian troops, paid with money taken from the purses 
of our tax-payers; maintained by Turcos, who give no quarter; so the Moni- 
teur says — horrid thought ! — [murmurs;] maintained by our brave soldiers, that 
an abominable decree has converted into butchers for Maximilian. Ah, I thank 
Marshal Bazaine for refusing to execute the decree, and thus saving our flag 
from a stain that could never have been washed out. 

They say the Mexican government is becoming strong. That expression 
may quiet the official world, but it will not satisfy the anxiety of the business 
world and those sound minds who compare this expedition with the Spanish 
war, one of the causes of the fall of the first empire. [Oh ! oh !] Gentlemen, 
you all know the history of the first empire. The war with Spain was called 
memorable by a senate that did not bury all cowardice. [Noise.] 

History will have a hard page for this expedition. It will tell how foolish 
it was, and show the diplomatic duplicity that caused it. To see this we have 
only to refer to the diplomatic correspondence of 1859 between the French and 
Spanish governments, and more particularly to the despatch of the minister of 
foreign affairs in 1S61 to Count Flahaut, our ambassador to England, in which 
the Maximilian affair is discussed. You must next read the tripartite conven- 
tion to satisfy claims on Mexico See Article 2, where it says the high con- 
tracting parties bind themselves not to exert any influence upon the internal 
affairs of the Mexican government. 

The allies had no sooner appeared at Vera Cruz than the Mexican govern- 
ment called for quarter, and the treaty of Soledad was concluded, Mexico 
granting all claims demanded. But the French government refused to honor 
the signature of her representative, one of the most noted personages in our 
country. [Interruptions.] Do you deny it ? He was made senator. 

Minister of State. You are mistaken ; you are not acquainted with the facts. 

Glais-Bizoin. Our allies left us, because they did not wish to destroy a gov- 
ernment after they had promised to respect it, and place an Austrian prince 
upon the throne. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIKS IN MEXICO. 9 

General Prim's remarkable letter foretold what has happened. [Ironical ex- 
clamations. I Your disturbance shows you have not read that letter, for it pre- 
dicted our present difficulties. 

A Member. We are in no present difficulties. 

Glais-Bizoin. Our allies, I say, left us, because they would not violate a 
solemn promise not to interfere with the internal government of Mexico, and 
would not join France in exacting reimbursement of worthless credits of a 
banker whose name has become famous. 

A Member. They did not want to share in our glory. 

Blais-Bizoin. General Lorencez was ordered to advance, and the army was 
constantly increased by the accession of those Almonte and Ramirez traitors. 

Baron Benoist. You are aiding our enemies ; you are firing upon our flag. 

Glais-Bizoin. Those traitors who are not ashamed of the infamy that hangs 
to those who turn against their country or join its enemies. When we are 
stopped at Puebla, the cry is : " The honor of France is at stake !" Then Gen- 
eral Bazaine, now marshal, with 40,000 men, invades Mexico ; a few towns are 
taken, and a vote is polled, when, lo! the name of Maximilian comes out of the 
urn ; and against this unrighteous election the Mexicans have been protesting, 
with arms in their hands, for three long years, and with an earnestness I should 
like to have seen in those men who were called the brigands of the Loire in 1814. 

Yes, the Mexicans are protesting against that sham election, and they are 
joined in their protest by that great nation called the United States. While 
acknowledging our right to make war to obtain due satisfaction, the govern 

ment at Washington reminds us of the convention, and says, " We allow that 

[loud exclamations.] 

Baron Benoist. We don't want the consent of the United States. We 
don't intend to cringe to them. 

Glais-Bizoin. The United States say to us, "We confess your right to de- 
mand satisfaction ; but, as you would not be pleased to see us set up a republic 
on your borders, we are not pleased to see you set up a monarchy on ours, and 
compel us to keep a standing army, contrary to the spirit of our institutions." 
Nothing is more sorrowful than the last despatches of the minister of foreign 
affairs, who tries to destroy the effect of the imperial letter by resorting to all 
the cunning of diplomatic language, and to prove that we have not violated 
article two of the London convention, and that it is not the intention of France 
to keep Maximilian on his throne by force. But how are we to get out of the 
scrape 1 If we had a parliamentary government the issue would be very easy 
[disturbance in different places.] 

Baron Benoist. In that case we would make peace at all cost! 

Glais-Bizoin. If a ministry had advised that expedition, it would have been 
put down long ago by the indignation of the house and the people. [Pshaw ! hush 
up!] They would have said to the government, "You have engaged France in 
the affair; now withdraw her and substitute your false pride andyourfalse honor." 
[Noisy exclamations.] 

But how are you to get out of it now 1 It is not my business ; it is yours. 
[Ah ! ah ! ] But I am willing to acknowledge the expedition as a blessing of 
Providence, whatever may be its consequences — war or peace — provided it 
serves as a warning lesson to my country, that has so soon forgotten the causes 
of ruin to the first empire — the result of a personal government ; and if it will 
only remember in future that the greatest danger to a nation is to trust its des- 
tiny to the will of a single individual. [Exclamations.] 

BtiLMONTEL. All France protests ! 

President Walewski. You must perceive, Mr. Glais-Bizoin, that you wound 
the feelings of the house. 

Many Voices. You are right ; that is so. 

Jules Favre. We did not meet here to compliment each other. 



10 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

[From tlic Moniteur Universal, the oflBcial paper of the French empire — Pari.--, Saturday 
March 3, 1866, No. 62, page 241.] 

Legislative chambers, session of Friday, March 2, 1S66, Count Walewski 
presiding. 

Presidenl Walewski. T will read paragraph 3 of the address: 

" Our Mexican expedition is drawing to a close, and the country is pleased 
with the prospect. Forced to undertake the expedition for the protection of 
our citizens against violence, and to demand satisfaction for real injuries, our 
soldiers and sailors have gallantly achieved the task. Your Majesty trusted to 
their devotion. This expedition is another proof of the power of France in dis- 
tant countries. The people of the United States who have long known the 
loyalty of our policy, and have always had our sympathy, ought not to be 
offended at the appearance of our troops on Mexican soil. To recall them at 
the instance of the United States would be to yield our rights and tarnish our 
honor. You, sire, have the care of them, and the legislative assembly knows 
you will preserve them with a solicitude worthy of France and of your name." 

The minister of state takes the floor: 

ROUHEB. The Mexican question is seen from two points of vieAV — from 
France and the United States, and from France and Mexico, and they cannot 
be separated ; if they could, then the Mexico-United States question could be 
easily discussed. All the despatches relating to it have been published, and 
everything is known ; the house can soon form its opinion. As regards Mexico 
especially, the French government has sent communications to the government 
of Maximilian ; but the great distance has not yet permitted a reply. 

For that reason I mentioned in the pamphlet of diplomatic despatches dis- 
tributed to the assembly that the Mexican correspondence would be published 
hereafter. It is not necessary for me then to dwell on the impossibility of pub- 
lishing despatches that' have not yet been received. [Good.] 

It is the wish of the government then that the house do not take up the 
Mexican question at present; it will naturally come up in the course of the 
session. The government is as anxious as the house or the people are to take 
it up, but it wishes it to be done thoroughly and at a proper time. That time 
has not yet come, and I think the house will agree with me when 1 ask that 
the paragraph be adopted without debate. 

Many Voices. Yes, yes! Put it to the vote. 

Picard. I ask permission to make a few remarks. 

President Walewski. Mr. Picard has the floor. 

Ernest Picard. As the interest of the country is concerned in this question 
I will consent to the postponement of its discussion, and I hope the house will 
approve of it. 

Perhaps the minister of state will think proper to fix a day for the discussion 
of the question as soon as the Mexican correspondence shall be received, before 
the debate on the appropriations. [Noise in several parts of the house.] 

Bblmontet. The question may come up when the contingent expenses are 
discussed. 

Ernest Picard. We presented an amendment; another was offered by the 
majority. 

President Walewski. It has been withdrawn. 

Ernest Picard. Our amendment is in order ; we maintain it, but are willing 
to defer the discussion. 

Several Members. It cannot be ! The address must be put to the vote. 

President Walewski. I do not understand Mr. Picard. The amendment 
is either maintained or withdrawn ; if it is maintained, it must be discussed and 
put to vote. 

Several Members. This is right and logical. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 11 

President Walewski. You cannot defer an amendment to the address, when 
it is to be voted on finally. [That is evident.] You must do one of two things ; 
either withdraw the amendment or let it be discussed ; take your choice. 

Ernest Picard. The president will permit me to say that he has not properly 
stated the question. I do not think it becomes the dignity of the house to settle 
the great Mexican question definitely, as the president proposes, without dis- 
cussing it. The paragraph of the address therefore ought to be expunged. [No, 
no !] I insist that it be expunged, as it does not express the voice of the house; 
and T cannot believe it will retain an opinion on the most serious of all the 
questions in the address, without a profound discussion of its merits. 

President Walewski. You mean then that you want your amendment de- 
bated. 

Ernest Picard. Allow me to explain. It is evident that both the house 
and the government wish the address to express the truth of facts, and as this 
cannot be reached, the discussion should be deferred ; and if we retained the 
paragraph in the address, without its discussion, we would not be understood 
abroad. 

President Walewski. Then you will vote against the paragraph. 

Ernest Picard. Certainly we will vote against the paragraph ; but we can- 
not withdraw our amendment. And, as I said at first, we will not insist on its 
discussion now if it is against the interest of the country, as they tell us. 

President Walewski. You do not withdraw your amendment, therefore I 
must propose its discussion. 

Ernest Picard. It must be referred to the committee. 

Segris. I ask to be heard on the question. 

President Walewski. You may speak. 

Segris. I have but a single remark to make. This question, gentlemen, 
seems to me of the greatest moment. Our discussions are heard by all of Europe. 
Well, what is the present situation 1 We have just been told that " the Mexi- 
can question is in such a condition that its discussion at this time would be se- 
riously improper ; that despatches have been sent, but it is not known if they 
reached their destination. To discuss that question now would only cause con- 
fusion and perhaps render its solution more difficult. We request, therefore, 
that the discussion be deferred, to be taken up at a later day, either before the 
discussion of the budget or at that time." That is what the minister of state 
said in the name of the government. Now I ask him how he can reconcile a 
proposal so just and reasonable with an immediate vote upon a paragraph to 
which two amendments have been proposed, and which is of such great import- 
ance. If all wish the discussion to be deferred [Interposition.] 

President Walewski. You don't wish the paragraph to be voted on then 1 

Segris. Excuse me, Mr. President. I would like an explanation from the 
orators of the government. I believe the minister of state intended simply to 
say : As this question cannot be properly discussed at present, it had better be 
postponed, and I therefore propose its postponement. Now I ask you, is voting 
on the paragraph equivalent to postponing it ? 

Many voices. Refer it to the committee. 

Eouher, minister of state. Gentlemen, I do not deny the impropriety of voting 
upon a question without previous discussion. It is the usual custom in legisla- 
tive assemblies to discuss every question thoroughly before it is put to the vote ; 
but this is no common question, and a vote on the address will not prevent a full 
discussion, at a proper time, of all questions relating to Mexico. 

A Member. We must have an opinion, or we cannot vote. 
President Walewski. No interruption ! 

The Minister of State. In questions of this kind explanations interchanged 
between the government and the house are the safeguard and dignity of each. 
Now, what do we say to the house 1 A debate on the policy of the government 



12 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

towards Mexico, and on its recent proposals to the government of the emperor 
Maximilian, not yet heard from, seems to me to be entirely premature. 

We ask the bouse to postpone it ; and, to facilitate its complete development, 
the government will submit the despatches since the last session, not in the Yel- 
low Book, to the consideration of the legislative assembly. 

But the discourse of the Throne has expressed a thought that the expedition 
was drawing to a close ; and that thought is common to the government and 
the legislative assembly. In fact, it is the thought of public opinion, and so it 
is expressed in the address. 

Under these circumstance, where is the inexpediency of the expression of 
opinion by the legislative assembly? As to its result, and its connection with 
affairs of the United States, let those questions be discussed hereafter. Leave 
no blank at present in the address that you are going to present to the Crown ; 
but let it be understood by everybody interested in our debates that our respect- 
ive sentiments are reserved, and that the dignity of no person is compromised. 
[Good ! Let the vote be taken. J 

Ernest Picard. One word, if you please, Mr. President. [The vote! the 
vote ! ] 

Buffet. I would like to ask the minister of state a simple question. He has 
just told you that it is improper to discuss the Mexican question at this time, be- 
cause all the documents are not yet on hand. Noav, I wish to ask him if a col- 
lective opinion can be formed upon it in the house when it does come up, so as to 
incorporate it with the address. If there is any likelihood of that, then I have 
no objection to vote on it now. 

Kouher, minister of state. The answer to the gentleman's question is easy. 
The Mexican question will be thoroughly discussed in due time; that is, when 
the budget for 1S66 is brought up. It can then be analyzed and presented to 
the house; and, as acts of the government are more properly investigated at 
that time, the house can then give a final opinion. 

What we most need is information, truth, and harmony between the great 
powers, and the government will do all it can to attain this, and thereby promote 
public interest and prosperity. [Good! good! Let us take the vote.] 

Ernest Picard. I hope a proposition will not be voted on till it is maturely 
considered. This resolution is twofold. First. How is it to be considered here- 
after 1 Second. It is a question that belongs solely to the house, and not to the 
minister of state and his colleagues. According to the constitution and the rules 
of the house there is but one time when we can discuss it, and that is during the 
debate on the address, and there will be no time when we can discuss it as fully 
as now. If the house wishes to put the question to a vote, it has only to say so. 
[Vote! vote!] 

President Walewski. Do you withdraw your amendment ? 

Ernest Picard and other members. No, no ! 

President Walewski. I will now put to the vote the amendment proposed 
by Bethmont, Garnier-Pages, Jules Favre, Pelletan, Duke Marmier, Picard, 
Glais-Bizoin, JavaL and others. Here is the amendment : 

" We condemned the Mexican expedition from its beginning on account of 
the difficulties and sacrifices it would cause France. 

" Tbe return of our soldiers was solemnly announced last year, and we re- 
gret it has been delayed to the detriment of French interests. 

" The country has not forgotten the first declarations of the government con- 
cerning the causes of the expedition, and it wonders to see our army still sacri- 
ficed to the defence of a foreign throne." 

The amendment was put to the vote and rejected by a large majority. 

The President. I will now put paragraph 3, which has been read, to the 
vote. [Vote ! vote ! J 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 13 

Paragraph 3 is put to vote and adopted. 

President Walewski. I now propose to the house that the remainder of 
the discussion be postponed till to-morrow. [Yes, Yes !] 

At ten o'clock to-morrow the discussion of the address will be resumed. 
House adjourned at quarter past five. 

OELESTIN LACACHE, 
Stenographic Revisor and Director of Short-hand Corps. 



No. 2. 

Mr. Seward to Senor Romero. 

Department of State, 

Washington, July 5, 1866. 
Sir : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of 
the 20th of March last, containing some extracts from the " Moniteur Universel," 
and to thank you for the information conveyed by them. 

I embrace this opportunity to renew to you the assurance of my distinguished 
consideration. 

WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 
Senor Don M. Romero, Sfc., Sfc, fyc. 



No. 3. 

Senor Romero to Mr. Seward. 
[Translation. ] 

Washington, April 2, 1866. 
My dear Sir : I have the honor to enclose you an extract, in English, from a 
letter which I received from Paris to-day, dated the 19th of March last, in which I 
am informed that three thousand two hundred men, and among them four hun- 
dred hussars, left Algiers, Brest, and Cherbourg, recently for Mexico. 
I am, sir, very respectfully, your very obedient servant, 

M. ROMERO. 
Hon. William H. Seward, Sfc., fyc , fyc. 



Paris, March 19, 1866. 
My Dear Friend : ****** * 

* # * ******* 

The principal object of these lines is to let you know that three thousand two 
hundred men left here a week ago for Vera Cruz with the greatest secrecy. 
Among them are four hundred hussars of Algiers, Brest, and Cherbourg. The 
press has not mentioned anything about it, nor do they dare to speak at all 
about the Mexican question, because they have been warned not to do so. 

The disagreement between Congress and President Johnson is regarded here 
with almost open joy, and it is very likely strong efforts will be made to in- 
crease the same if it can be done by any act of Prance. 

* * * # * * % * * 

A telegraphic despatch from Vienna published here day before yesterday in- 



14 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

forms up that an agreement has been concluded with Maximilian for the pur- 
pose of sending him two thousand Austrians to till up the losses of the Austrian 
contingeni in Mexico. The necessary expenses will of course be defrayed by 
the French government. 

***** * * * * 



Senor Don Matias Romero. 
A true copy. 



Washington, Abril 2, de 1S66. 
IGNO. MAEISCAL. 



No. 4. 

Mr. Seward to Sefior Romero.. 

Department of State, 

Washington, July 5, 1866. 
Sir : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of 
the 2d of April last, enclosing a letter addressed to you from Paris, which con- 
tains information of the recent departure from Algiers, Brest, and Cherbourg of 
certain troops for Mexico. 

Please accept my thanks for your information. I embrace this opportunity 
to renew to you the assurance of my distinguished consideration. 

WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 
Sefior Don M. Romero, Sfc, Sfc, Sfc. 



No. 5. 

Sefior Romero to Mr. Seward 

[Translation.] 

Mexican Legation to the United States of America, • 

Washington, April 14, 1866. 

Mr. Secretary: I have the honor to transmit you a copy of a letter of 
the 5th of March last, from the city of Mexico, lately received in this country, 
giving an impartial account of recent events in that city. I also enclose an 
article, in English, from La Sombra, a paper published in the city of Mexico, show- 
ing, from data published in the interventionist papers, that there has been almost 
a battle between the Mexicans and French who are trying to conquer the coun- 
try almost every day since the arrival of the usurper, Ferdinand Maximilian of 
Hapsburg, in Mexico. 

Together with the above I send an extraordinary document, just published in 
the city of Mexico, showing that the usurper has made an agreement with the 
family of Augustin Iturbide that they shall leave Mexico forever, for pecuniary 
considerations ; and that a son of Don Angel de Iturbide shall be separated 
from his parents, and Ferdinand Maximilian shall be his curator. All the efforts 
of the distressed mother to regain her child have hitherto been fruitless. 

I embrace the occasion to renew to you, Mr. Secretary, the assurances of my 
most distinguished consideration. 

M. ROMERO. 

Hon. William H. Seward, Sfc., fyc, Sfo. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 15 

[Enclosure No. 1.] 

Mexico, March 5, 1866. 

I have waited till the last hour, so as to give you the true situation of this 
empire and its future prospects. 

I will be as brief as possible, but I will not confine myself to the doubts and 
conjectures in regard to the absolute and relative position of Maximilian, the 
French, and the Mexicans implicated in the intervention, for opinions were di- 
vided here as soon as Napoleon's speech on the Mexican question was known. 
Some said the speech of the Crown, in regard to this country, was a repetition 
of the vague promises with which the Emperor had entertained his people, who 
were anxious for the return of the expeditionary army ; while others interpreted 
its words to signify a speedy withdrawal. Some thought Maximilian would retire 
from the country with the baggage of the French army ; others believed he would 
stay in Mexico, supported by the faction that put him into power, and virtually 
sustained by France, and both cited authorities to sustain their opinions. Some 
referred to the activity of the invading army that seemed to be making no prepara- 
tions to retire, but was daily receiving reinforcements to fill vacancies in differ- 
ent corps ; others noticed the concentration of the interventionists and the in- 
discretion of some chiefs, who said they were to return to France before long. 
As to Maximilian, what is said about his going or remaining is to depend on his 
visit to Cuernavaca, or his confidence in continuing the works at Chepultepec 
and Palacio, and the various preparations that are made for the industrial expe- 
dition which is to take place in a few months. The pendulum has not ceased 
to vibrate, but yesterday something happened to give a new phase to the empire 
created by intervention. It was said that Baron Saillard was sent here by Na- 
poleon t) make preparatory arrangements for the speedy withdrawal of the 
French troops from Mexico. He remained but a few days, and after his return 
to France certain events transpired here, inducing us to believe that such was 
his business here. Ever since Maximilian arrived in Mexico, the little rest that 
adulators at Chepultepec have given him, and the small time he has had to spare 
from the devotions of lent, very pompous at the palace, he has employed in re- 
organizing the cabinet and in making many personal changes in his administra- 
tion, denoting a formal change of policy. This change is hardly to be seen in 
the character of officials appointed, for in selecting them he has chosen men 
submissive to foreign policy. But that is not all, and here are echoes of in- 
discreet whispers from the palace : The French will leave sooner or later, but 
France will not give up the firm hold she has of Mexico at such a sacrifice. 
Maxirmlian will remain, protected by Napoleon and the great interventionist 
party that will be organized and armed before the French leave. It is evident 
the pure liberals will not easily assimilate with the empire. The seducing re- 
cruiting policy has shown this. It will then be necessary to face about until the 
refractory are conciliated. The policy of toleration yields no fruit ; some other 
must be substituted. Maximilian must bring about a reaction more powerful 
than the one Avhich sustained Santa Anna and Miramon, and he must have the 
moral support of France, and perhaps of all Europe. The tariff must be re- 
formed, and his revenue schemes must be more strictly enforced. In fact, this 
policy has already been commenced by the following measures : A censor of 
the press has been appointed, with instructions to suppress the scandal caused 
by the liberal papers in discussing the present order of things. This office is 
given to Licenciado Hidalgo y Teran, an individual who made his fortune, as 
you know, under the patronage of Sagaceta, and nursed by the ecclesiastical 
court. 

The independent press will receive some hard blows before this week is gone. 
The departments have been reduced to four ; and when Ramirez, Peza, and 
Esteva go put, Salazar Ilarregui will come in as minister of government, and 



16 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

Somera as minister of the interior. Those going out will be paid with crosses 
or foreign missions. Escudero is watching his famous Law of public administra- 
tion, and Castillo, who Btooped to be the agent of Napoleon, continues in the 
department of foreign relations. Other changes in the administration amount 
to nineteen op to this time. < S-eneral Mendoza has resigned his place as political 
prefect of the valley of Mexico. To tell the truth, Maximilian makes these 
changes reluctantly, and only docs so to oblige his patrons who forced him into 
the way ; they now force him to quit. Maximilian has French agents in his 
household who are also partizans of this reaction. They try to frighten him 
with resolutions passed in the Congress of the United States, and Mr. Seward's 
notes. Such are the facts ; now we must discover their origin and their import- 
ance. Does Napoleon really believe that the interventionist party can sustain 
the throne it has set up in Mexico ? or is he only keeping it up till he can get his 
forces out of the country? If the reactionary elements be organized and sup- 
ported hy aid from France, can they prevent the restoration of national power? 
These are questions that you can answer, perhaps, better than us. As you are 
better acquainted with the acts of diplomacy you may be able to interpret 
Napoleon's speech, and tell us whether the intervention will be sustained or not, 
openly or covertly, by European powers. Fortune continues adverse to inter- 
vention, and has lately increased the embarrassment of the empire by two very 
important events. Mr. Langlais, the financial savior of the empire, suddenly 
died. His great plans for collecting the revenue from the sea-ports had just 
begun to be put into operation. For all they say that Mr. Maintenon, the 
present secretary of the treasury, has carried out his predecessor's plans, no one 
denies that his death is very embarrassing to the government. He had com- 
plete knowledge of affairs, and full power to act in every emergency. His 
labor was to solve the question of resources, which you know is the critical 
question for intervention. In this particular things have come to such a pass 
that they say the confiscated property, not yet secured to the state, is to be 
made use of; and they say the desperate idea has been postponed from Maxi- 
milian's repugnance to make use of it. The other event I alluded to is the 
defeat of Mendez, the imperial chief in Michoacaa. The malcontents, so often 
scattered and annihilated, collected four thousand men, and made a stand in the 
plain of Uruapan. Mendez, the assassin of Arteaga and Salazar, tried to avoid 
battle, but was surrounded by two columns of cavalry, and, to save his life, had 
to leave his soldiers, his artillery, and even his baggage on the field. The 
moral effect of this occurrence was terrible in Mexico and in Morelia. All the 
forces remaining in Michoacan were concentrated in the latter city for fear of an 
attack, and the Mexican press, after a timid silence, published the news with the 
customary palliations. But as the imperialist chief permitted himself to get 
whipped just as the English packet was going out, it was necessary to invent a 
falsehood, and it was accordingly reported there had been no disaster; only a 
scare had been felt in Michoacan, and Mendez had gained a victory and taken 
many prisoners. Some of the papers, however, added that the victory had 
been purchased very dearly, the imperial forces were much weakened, and re- 
enforcements were immediately needed in Michoacan. Re enforcements were 
actually sent, but Mendez was recalled on account of the untruthfulness of his 
reports to Marshal Bazaine. It seems he had captured three hundred patriots 
after his defeat, and called it a victory. 

Recent news from New Leon and Coahuila say the insurrection is entirely 
suppressed in those States. The situation of the imperial troops in Tamau- 
lipas is very critical. Tampico is in continual alarm. The small garrison of that 
port is acting on the defensive. The liberals are organizing and increasing under 
General Garza, who has his headquarters in Victoria. 

Mazatlan is in a more desperate situation than Tampico. Coronas's forces 
have lately been very near the town, contemplating an assault. The State of 
Tlascala is already within the insurrectionary zone. A force of three hundred 
men lately surprised the small garrison of the capital and took Ormachea, the 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 17 

military commander, prisoner. The alarm consequent upon this event reached 
Puebla, only seven leagues from Tlascala. 

If the pacification of the country goes on in that manner, how long will it be 
before a few traitors and a handful of mercenary Austrians will be enough to 
defend the empire ? 



[Enclosure No. 2. ] 

Secret treaty made between his majesty and the son of the liberator, D. Augustin 

lturbide. 
His majesty, the emperor, wishing to honor the memory of the liberator, D. 
Augustin lturbide, in consequence of the first right he had to the gratitude of 
the nation, and his sons desiring to further the noble object of his majesty, by 
the order of the emperor, the minister of foreign affairs, M. F. Ramirez, and 
charged with the ministry uf state, and Mr. Augustin, Mr. Angel, and Mr. Oosme, 
and Miss Josephina lturbide, arranged together the following : 

1. His majesty will give a high position to the two grandsons of the emperor, 
D. Augustin y D. Salvador, as well as to his daughter, Dona Josephine lturbide. 

2. Their majesties will provide the means for the education of the grandsons 
of the emperor Augustin, suited to their rank, as well as also their maintenance 
and that of Dona Josephine lturbide. 

3. As a mark of special protection, his majesty wishes to constitute himself 
their tutor and guardian, and to name Dona Josephine co-tutrix. 

4. D. Augustin, Angel, and Augustin Cosme lturbide promise in their names, 
as well as in the name of Dona Sabina and their legitimate descendants, never 
to return to the empire, without previous authorization from the sovereign or 
the regency. 

5. The government of his majesty would pay from the treasury of the state 
to D. Augustin, Angel, Augustin Cosme, Dona Josephine, and Dona Sabina 
lturbide, the sum of $30,000 down, and $120,000 in drafts on Paris, payable, 
$60,000 the 15th of December, of the present year, and $60,000 the loth of 
February, 1866 — making a total of $150,000 on account of what is due them by 
the nation. 

6. The government assures and it is responsible for the accounts of the family 
of the liberator, lturbide. 

7. The government of his majesty will give proper orders to secure all pen- 
sions to D. Augustin, Angel, Augustin Cosme, Dona Josephine, and Dona Sa- 
bina lturbide which they now enjoy. These pensions will be paid punctually 
and without discount at their place of residence, or the nearest place to it having 
commercial relations with Mexico. 

8. The government of his majesty concedes toD. Augustin, Angel, Augustin 
Cosme, and Dona Sabina lturbide an income of $6,000 to the first, $5,100 to 
the second — that income going to the wife of D. Angel in case of his death — and 
$1,524 to the two others. Orders will be given for the prompt payment of these 
sums, and in accordance with the preceding article fixing the pensions. 

In faith of which the present treaty has been signed in duplicate at the im- 
perial residence of Chepultepec, the 9th of September, 1865. 

By order of his imperial majesty : 

JOSE F. RAMIREZ, 
Minister of Foreign Affairs, charged with the Ministry of State. 

ANGEL DE ITUBIDE, 
JOSEF A DE ITURBIDE, 
A. DE ITURBIDE, 
AUGUS. C. DE ITURBIDE 
ALICIA G DE ITURBIDE. 

2 ME > 



18 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

No. 6. 

Mr. Seward to Scnor Romero, 

Department oe State, 

Washington, July 5, 1866. 
Sin : I have to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of the 14th 
of April last, containing copy of a letter addressed to you from the city of .Mexico, 
with reference to the recent events in that city; also some other interesting in- 
formation, for which he pleased to accept my thanks. 

I embrace this opportunity to renew to you the assurance of my distinguished 
consideration. 

WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 
Senor Don M. Romero, fyc, fyc., Sfc: 



No. 7. 

Scnor Romero to Mr. Seward. 

[Translation. ] 

Washington, April 15, 1866. 

My dear Sir : I have the honor to send you a copy, in English, of a letter 
from one of the principal commercial houses in Vera Cruz, dated the 31st 
of May last, showing how arbitrarily the French intervention treat the mer- 
chants of good faith in that port, imposing unjust taxes upon them, which 
will certainly ruin many of them. 

This is only one of the examples of the pretended blessings brought on 
Mexico by French intervention, blessings that weigh heavily upon those who 
have the misfortune to live in a country with such a government. 
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

M. ROMERO. 

Hon. William H. Seward, fyc, fyc, fyc. 



[Enclosure.] 

Vera Cruz, March 31, 1S66. 
For some time a very serious question has been pending between the com- 
mercial houses of this city engaged in the foreign trade and the government of 
Maximilian. By the decree of the latter of the 10th of February ultimo, an 
additional duty of thirty per cent, was added to the tariff then in force. The 
commerce of this port claimed, and with reason, that this could not apply to 
merchandise in store which had been imported months, and some of it even years, 
before the publication of the decree. That the very fact that such merchandise 
was on hand and had been kept so long was a proof that it was in little de- 
mand, and would probably have to be sold at a loss, and that now to force it to 
pay an additional duty, not contemplated or known at the time of its importa- 
tion, would be to involve in ruin many of the merchants, and to expose them to 
losses as unjust as injurious. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIKS IN MEXICO. 19 

It was also urged that such a measure was in violation of the organic law of 
the empire, which established the principle that no law ever should have retro- 
active force. 

For these reasons the question has been a very grave one between the com- 
mercial houses and M. Rollau, (a French subject,) the director of the custom- 
house of the Gulf. But Maximilian, at the petition of the latter, and overriding 
the express provisions of the organic law, has ordered not only that the merchants 
must pay this additional percentage of duty upon their effects now on hand and 
previously imported, but that if they do not deliver a full account of all mer- 
chandise on hand within the term of three days, they shall be obliged to pay 
sixty per cent, additional duty in place of the thirty per cent, fixed by the decree 
of the 10 th of February. 

It therefore follows that not only are dispositions established that are con- 
trary to all the principles of justice recognized throughout the world, but 
suddenly and on the moment there are established, and, even in cases of doubtful 
interpretation, new systems of penalties, under an arbitrary legislation heretofore 
unknown. 

These are entirely new occurrences for this country, and have caused a pro- 
found sensation throughout the commercial community. The tariff has been 
suddenly raised or lowered before, and merchants have been exposed sometimes 
to serious losses, and at other times have gained upon their stocks on hand. 
They have never been before exposed, in addition, to retroactive laws and the 
imposition of penalties as new and unexampled as they are arbitrary and 
unjust. What, however, makes this case more remarkable is, that it is a matter 
of public notoriety that not only the minister of treasury, but Maximilian also, 
recognize and admit the justice of the position taken by the commercial houses 
of this port, the principal of this country, aud pronounce the measure an iniqui- 
tous one ; but their fear of Napoleon is such that they are unwilling to go con- 
trary to any measure decided upon by M. Langlais, the financial agent whom 
he sent here, and who has proceeded as if he were directing a department in 
France. 

The principle, however, that this action has established is a most dangerous 
one, and has thrown commercial affairs here into the greatest uncertainty. No 
merchant now knows what to calculate upon or what to expect, and the belief 
is that this measure is only the beginning of a course of similar exactions de- 
signed to meet the extraordinary necessities caused by the pecuniary embairass- 
ments of Maximilian's government. The ordinary revenue from all sources is 
not sufficient to meet even the half the present expenditures, and the fear is that, 
as a matter of necessity, resort will be had to every possible means of extorting 
funds wherever they can be found. As the only class that has available means 
is the commercial community, it follows that upon this class these exactions are 
likely almost exclusively to fall. How it will be possible to continue importa- 
tions under these circumstances it is not easy to see. 

The English minister, it is said, has already interfered in the matter, but there 
is little hope of anything being done so long as the pecuniary necessities of the 
situation are so great and the French continue to treat this country as the 
Spaniards did, only as a place to take dollars from, and at the cost of whatever 
sacrifice of its present commerce or future interest. 

Washington, Ahril 15, A. D. 1S66. 
A true copy. 

IGNO. MARISCAL. 



20 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

No. 8. 
Mr. Seward to Seflor Romero. 

Department of State, 
Washington, July 5, 1866. 
Sir : I have to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of the 15th 
of April last, containing a copy of a letter from a commercial house iu Vera 
Cruz on the subject of taxes, for which please accept my thanks. 

I embrace tins opportunity to renew to you the assurances of my distinguished 
consideration. 



Sefior Don M. Romero, §c, Sp., Sft: 



WILLIAM H. SEWABD. 



No. 9. 

Se7wr Romero to Mr. Seivard. 

Washington, May 9, 1866. 

My Dear Sir: The documents accompanying your report to the President 
of the 21st ultimo, submitted by him to Congress, in regard to the promised 
evacuation of Mexico by the French forces, and specially your very able letter 
to M. Moutholon. dated February 12, 1S66, in answer to the arguments and 
assertions of M. Drouyn de Lhuys, seemed to me so important that I caused 
great many of those papers to be carefully translated into Spanish in my lega- 
tion, (your letter of February 12 being translated in full,) and a large edition 
of them printed for the purpose of circulating them widely at home, where they 
will produce, I have no doubt, great deal of good. 

I take now the liberty of sending to you five hundred copies of the Spanish 
edition of said papers, which number, I suppose, will be sufficient should 
you be willing to circulate them among the legations, consulates, and consular 
offices of the United States in the Spanish American republics, where, I am 
sure, they will be read with the greatest interest. 

The papers are headed by a circular of mine, addressed to the Mexicans, 
giving them my views on the correspondence. 

I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

M. ROMERO. 

Hon. William H. Seward, Sfc, 4c, §c. 



[Translation. — Circular No. 7.] 

Mexican Legation in the United States of America, 

Washington, April 26, 1S66. 

I have the honor to transmit to you, for your information, a Spanish transla- 
tion of the principal documents sent to the 39th Congress by the President of 
the United States with his message of the 23d instant, at the request of the 
House of Representatives, relative to the withdrawal of the French soldiers 
from the territory of the republic. The importance of these documents cannot 
but be evident to every citizen who is defending the independence of his country. 

While the Mexican people were struggling heroically against the colossal 
power of the first military nation of Europe, our sister republic of the United 
States ended its civil war, the cause of our invasion, and was free to use its 
good offices, or force if necessary, in putting a stop to the arbitrary conduct of 
the Emperor Napoleon, who has undertaken the impossible task of overturning 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 21 

the government that the nation elected freely, and establishing a European 
monarchy in its place, with an Austrian prince at its head. 

Without soliciting directly or indirectly the good offices or mediation of the 
United States with France, and without entering into any engagement with 
either nation, the North American government has succeeded in persuading the 
Emperor Napoleon to promise to withdraw his forces from our territory, and to 
fix a time for the fulfilment of that promise. 

This is equivalent to persuading the French Emperor to give up the pretended 
government he has established in the ancient capital of the republic, for every 
one knows that if the Emperor Napoleon could not consolidate his pretended 
government with four years of savage war, when he could send what forces he 
pleased to the republic without fear of the United States, and keep them there 
forever, he certainly cannot do it now, when he has bound himself not to send 
any more troops, but take away those he has there now, particularly when the 
civil war in the United States is over, and that nation is restored as a first- 
class power, capable of frustrating the plans that the ignorance and ambition of 
European despots conceived for the oppression of this continent. 

The government of the United States has moreover assumed a position to- 
wards Austria, as may be seen in the correspondence, preventing that country 
from sending out mercenaries to support the cause of despotism and European 
usurpation on Mexican soil. 

Though the time fixed by the Emperor Napoleon for withdrawing his soldiers 
from Mexico seems long, if he acts on this occasion in good faith, I have no 
doubt he will shorten it, as this will be greatly to his interest. If, on the con- 
trary, he does not keep his word with the United States, his situation will only 
become more dangerous. 

The government of the United States has clearly shown, in its correspondence 
with France, that it is not so much dissatisfied with the conduct of France in 
Mexico, making war on the republic and keeping an army there, as it is with 
the fact that France is trying to overthrow the present nitional government, and 
establish a European monarchy by force of arms. For this reason, the United 
States will not be satisfied with the withdrawal of the French army from 
Mexico, if it does not carry away with it the pretended monarchy it attempted 
to establish in that country. 

The publication of this correspondence shows the end of French intervention, 
and its infamous acts in the republic. This result is chiefly due to the noble 
and persistent stand of the Mexican people for four years, enduring every hard- 
ship, sacrifice and privation in defence of the nation's honor and independence. 

I communicate these important events to you, because they mark a new era 
in the history of our country, and I congratulate you on the prospect of a 
speedy termination of a wicked war waged upon us by the tyrant of France. 

1 repeat to you the assurance of my distinguished consideration, 

M. ROMERO. 

To the citizen . 



No. 10. 

Senor Romero to Mr. Seward. 
[Translation.] 

Mexican Legation to the United States of America, 

Washington, May 18, 1866. 
Mr. Secretary : I have the honor to transmit to you, for the information of 
the government of the United States, some extracts from a pamphlet entitled 
" The Foreign Question," which was published on the 31st of December last, 



22 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

in the town of Paso del Norte, the present seat of the national government of 
Mexico. 

It contains a short and correct account of political occurrences in the Mexican 
republic during the months of October, November, and December, 1865. 

I am pleased with this opportunity to renew to you, Mr. Secretary, the as- 
surances of my most distinguished consideration. 

M. ROMERO. 

Hon. William II. Seward, tfc., Sfc., tyc. 



THE FOREIGN QUESTION. 

New changes brought about by the removal of the national government to 
Chihuahua, and its subsequent return to this city, have disturbed the regular 
order of our reviews, and compel us to condense the events of the last three 
months, ending this day, into one single article. * * * 

We will begin with a notice of the imprisonments by the empire in August 
last, on account of a suspected conspiracy in the capital, garrisoned by a con- 
siderable French force. The persons arrested were liberals residing in the city, 
who were soon released without an explanation of the arbitrary acts committed 
against them. If there had been the slightest proof of conspiracy, the captives 
would have been executed immediately, as clemency is not one of the virtues of 
the present ruler of Mexico. Supposing it only a scare, we cannot conceive why 
the invaders were so frightened, or why persons were arrested, unless it were a 
causeless act of tyranny so common to our present civilizers. It seems the 
order was issued by Marshal Bazaine, without the assent of Maximilian, who was 
on a visit to the mines of Pachuca at the time ; for he always leaves the capital 
for a short time whenever he has a disagreement with the French general ; and 
the visit like to have cost him very dearly, for he was near being caught by a guerilla 
band, and had to retreat to the city in the greatest haste. Now, as we are on 
the subject of despotism, we will give the case of Manuel Lozano, of Aguas 
Calientes, who was assassinated upon the report of a bandit, who swore he was in 
league with the republicans. There was no evidence to condemn the unfortu- 
nate man, but be was murdered in cold blood by officers of the intervention. 
This horrid crime remained unrevenged, though it was denounced by the news- 
papers of the imperial capital, and chastisement of the guilty was demanded. 

Besides a speech, Maximilian celebrated the anniversary of national independ- 
ence by a decree, declaring the grandsons of Iturbide, children of his son An- 
gel and a North American woman, princes of the empire. It was also said he 
intended to make them his successors, but he did not do it. We can't imagine 
why he skipped the living children of the unfortunate hero of Iguala, and passed 
to the grandchildren, when the former had the greatest right to titles. This 
fact is very insignificant in itself. The usurper may make as many princes, 
dukes, counts, and marquises as he pleases, as all these high sounding titles -will 
only serve for ridicule, as he will never be able to establish a real aristocracy for 
his imperial farce. ###### 

General Porfirio Diaz managed to escape from his prison, in Puebla, on the 
22d of September. The event gave great alarm to the imperialists, as they knew 
the harm he could do them if he could raise another army for the republican 
cause. \Ve will see how he served his country as soon as he was at liberty. 
He went immediately into the State of Guerrero, put himself at the head of a 
republican force, and attacked a band of traitors, which was completely routed, 
with considerable loss. After this, he consulted with General Alvarez about a 
new campaign in Guerrero and Oaxaca, which was subsequently carried out. 
Events will soon realize the hopes entertained of the patriotism of General Diaz. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 23 

A proclamation and a decree were issued in October, in the capital of the Mex- 
ican empire, destined to occupy a prominent place in the history of the interven- 
tion struggle. The proclamation of the usurper says that the cause defended 
with so much valor and constancy by Benito Juarez has lost all political char- 
acter, because the ex-President of the republic has quit the national territory, 
and his robber bands must be treated with the greatest severity. 

This assertion was preceded by a note from General Brincourt, stating it as 
a fact that President Juarez had actually left the Mexican territory, and with- 
out waiting to investigate the case, Maximilian proclaimed it as true, and made 
it the foundation of his tyrannical decrees. Logically speaking, when the false- 
hood of Brincourt's assertion was ascertained, the cause for the decree was re- 
moved and it fell to the ground. But logic is sacrificed in this case, and Maxi- 
milian is held up to ridicule. 

So much importance was given to the supposed desertion of the republic by 
President Juarez, that the imperial organs gave it over as the end of the con- 
test. As soon as Brincourt's occupation of Chihuahua was known in the capi- 
tal, Marshal Bazaine hastened to telegraph the news to Vera Cruz, where a 
vessel was prepared to convey it without delay to Napoleon, as if it were a 
decided fact. They did not consider that it was only the abandonment of a 
single city, whose possession by the French would be of very little importance ; 
but, in accordance with their system of exaggeration, a second-rate affair was 
made a first-rate success, and to give it greater interest, they told of the capture 
of some pieces of artillery, not taken in battle, but left for want of transporta- 
tion, after having been spiked. In the same strain they called the orderly re- 
treat of the republican government, a hasty flight, and concluded by saying the 
President had left the country, and thus the troubles were over. 

This is a case of very great importance, and the mistake was serious, even 
allowing the allegations to have been true. However injurious the exit of the 
supreme magistrate to the national cause, it could not be ruinous ; were he even 
to die, though the nation would miss him much, the national cause would not be 
irretrievably injured, because it was formed to outlive the most eminent men who 
die in its defence. The argument, therefore, employed by the usurper in his 
celebrated proclamation, taken in the most favorable sense, amounts to an 
absurdity. 

If its reasoning can thus be so easily refuted, the decree is still subject to 
greater blame for its infraction of every principle of humanity ; and the inter- 
ventionists have reached the highest grade of eternal infamy in adopting its 
principles. As early as the 20th of June, 1863, General Forey created the 
execrable French courts -martial, whose records are now saturated with the 
nation's blood. After Maximilian's return from his journey into the country, 
he issued a circular ordering all captured guerrilleros to be hanged, and not sat- 
isfied with the many sanguinary executions already consumated, he perfected 
his infernal work by issuing the decree of the 3d of October, and in this his 
ministers have become his accomplices, for their signatures are appended to the 
document, ordering the most horrid crime against humanity, a crime that Draco 
himself would not have dared to sanction. Its articles are marked with the 
seal of genuine ferocity ; every one belonging to an armed force of any number, 
kind, order, or organization, character or denomination, shall be condemned to 
death by a court-martial and executed within twenty -four hours, without appeal 
or recourse of any kind ; and every one who shall aid or abet the republicans 
in any manner whatever, give them notice or warning, furnish them with any 
munitions of war, have any intercourse with them, or conceal them, or propa- 
gate false or alarming rumors, or reports, shall be subject to the penalties of 
imprisonment, banishment, or fine, according to the gravity of the offence. All 
owners or managers of plantations are required to notify the imperial authori- 
ties of the enemies' movements, under the penalty of a heavy fine in case of 



24 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

neglect to do so. This order is extended to town authorities ; and all male 
citizens between eighteen and fifty-five, who do not take op arms in defence of 
the empire are Buhject to similar penalties. All the other dispositions of the 
said decree are of the same tenor, thus placing the whole community in a state 
of seige, declaring all criminals who are not zealous partisans of the new order 
of things. 

To show the determination to enforce this decree with the greatest possible 
rigor, I will cite a recent occurrence of the greatest importance. On the 13th 
of October a division, commanded by Jose Maria Arteaga, was defeated at Santa 
Ana Amatlan, and he was taken prisoner, with General Carlos Salazar and 
several other chiefs and officers. Don Ramon Mendez, the imperial conqueror, 
who was made brigadier general for that feat, did not dare to enforce tin 1 pre- 
cepts of the sanguinary law upon his distinguished prisoners, and sent to Mexico 
to know wdiat was to be done with them. lie was answered by the usurper's 
minister of war, as well ashy Marshal Bazaine, that the decree should be strictly 
enforced. So Generals Arteaga and Salazar, Colonels Diaz Paracho and Villa 
Gomez, Padre Mina, and we know not how many more, were shot in Uruapam 
according to supreme orders. We presume these atrocious assassinations have 
been continued, as we have recently heard of the pietition of the ladies of'Pazcuaro 
to spare the lives of one hundred and fifty prisoners. Everything has conspired 
to render this barbarous act most conspicuous in its hideous deformity. Mendez's 
prisoners belonged to no guerilla band ; they were not obscure individuals ; 
they had been guilty of no misdemeanors, and were blameless in their conduct; 
but they belonged to the regular army, organized in due form; they occupied 
high positions in military rank; one Avas commanding general of the division; 
all were known as gentlemen; their officers had been lenient with French, Aus- 
trian, and Belgian prisoners ; and even the Express newspaper, on hearing of 
Arteaga's capture, pronounced a merited eulogy on his conduct. But all that 
did not save them from the gallows ; they were led out and shot like mal- 
efactors. 

Acts of this kind — an eternal stigma of infamy upon its authors — far from 
doing honor to their cause, will ruin it and cover it with disgrace. These ex- 
treme measures prove the desperation of their cause, and it certainly cannot 
succeed by these means. The wanton shedding of blood, even in wars, in all 
ages and in every part of the world, has only served for the destruction of the 
sanguinary cause. The execution of those meritorious patriots in Uruapam will 
serve as a stimulus to the nation to arouse itself against its butchers and avenge 
the memory of its worthy children. 

Soon after the promulgation of the decree to which Ave have alluded, there was 
a misunderstanding among the ministers who had signed it. Fernando Ramirez 
was transferred from the department of foreign relations to the department 
of state, and Velazquez de Leon, its incumbent, was left without a portfolio. 
Martin del Castillo Avas put into Ramirez's place, to the great surprise of every- 
body, as he was only under secretary of the treasury and manager of the impe- 
rial household. Manuel Siliceo was dismissed from the department of public 
instruction and worship, and Francisco Artigas, a young lawyer of no note, was 
put in his place. 

The mystery of these changes remains unrevealed. Why did Ramirez leave 
his position and not quit the cabinet 1 Why was Siliceo dismissed from the 
cabinet when he had just deeply compromised himself by signing the sanguinary 
decree of the 3d of October ? If this ministerial modification means a change of 
policy, it is very hard to comprehend it. The truth is, Maximilian must be much 
in want of capable men for his cabinet, when he has to fill it Avith persons un- 
known or entirely disqualified for such distinguished positions. 

* * ****** 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 25 

Interested persons have represented Maximilian as a great reformer on account 
of the enactment of some organic laws promulgated last November. Those I 
have seen are very far from deserving praise. One relates to the departments 
and the duties of their heads, but it is common. Another concerns the modification 
of a former decree, fixing the order of precedence among the imperial dignitaries, 
and it is simply ridiculous. The organization of the judiciary department 
is merely a copy of the law signed by Teodosio Lares at the time Santa Anna 
entitled himself serene highness, and inaugurated the absured system of a 
monarchical farce in Mexico. If there are other laws worthy of eulogy in any 
way we have not heard of them, and even if they do exist they are not national, 
because they do not proceed from the proper authority. 

But the most important part of the administrative functions is the direction of 
the treasury department. This has been organized by Francisco P. de Cesar, the 
present under secretary. According to his report the sum and substance of his 
efforts, in a financial way, consist in doubling the present taxation. It certainly 
requires no fiseal genius to do this. If this system can be carried out, the direct- 
ors of the Mexican imperial treasury may boast of having solved all pecuniary 
difficulties. If doubling the rates of taxation will not do, they can triple or 
quadruple them, going on in geometrical progression until there be no deficit in 
government expenses. 

The calculation of this estimate is very easy on paper; but in practice, we 
judge there will be inseparable difficulties. War is a great obstacle to the col- 
lection of taxes at present ; but when all private fortunes are exhausted by its 
continuation, how is any government to subsist 1 It will require long years of 
peace to enable the country to support a monarchy, such as the present one. 

The financial situation is becoming so complicated, that it can never be un- 
tangled. The yearly estimate amounts to fifty-seven millions of dollars, eighteen 
millions of which go to the support of the army, and the thirty-nine remaining 
to the civil government. Our reasoning becomes more forcible as these expenses 
increase ; and this is the government that was to be as panacea to all our ills ! 
Any one acquainted with our country can see how absurd it is to think that 
such a sum can be collected. We laugh at the new financier sent to Mexico 
by Napoleon to make these ridiculous calculations. Mr. Langlais has asserted 
that it is very easy to make Mexico yield two hundred millions of dollars ! 
When we see foreign financiers, entirely ignorant of our country, solve compli- 
cated questions in four words, we are tempted to exclaim : " Pardon them, O 
Lord, for they know not what they say !" 

The present condition of the finances is gloomy : rentes and foreign loans 
have already been absorbed by the government expenses. The revenues of the 
States have also been used up, since the central system was substituted for the 
federative. The funds have been used to support a court of foreigners, that 
squanders money in great profusion. Horses, balls, excursions, shows, banquets, 
alms, servants and dress cost millions. Four millions' pay to the Austrian sol- 
diers is aside from all this. Such extravagance will certainly bankrupt the 
country and put an end to the imperial farce. * * * 

In fact, everything conspires to make the situation more grievous, the few 
victories of the imperial arms not excepted. The advantage has mostly been 
on our side, even when the imperialists triumphed, for nobody can believe in its 
ultimate success in this prolonged struggle. For military operations in this 
vast country the imperial government depends upon the French expeditionary 
corps, the foreign legion and Mexican soldiers armed by the invaders. A rapid 
view of these three elements will demonstrate the impossibility of executing 
the work proposed. 

We cannot say exactly what is the number of men in the French expedi- 
tionary corps; but at the time the question was debated in the legislative 
assembly, it consisted of 28,000 men. According to another report, it consisted 



26 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

of twenty-one battalions of infantry, thirteen squadrons of cavalry, eight batte- 
ries of artillery, and a company of sappers. Although recruits have continued 
to eonie from France for the last l\'\v months for the army in Mexico, the force 
has not been increased, as they had to take the place of discharged soldiers. 
One of the ways Napoleon thought of to increase his Mexican troops, was to 
hire 1,00() soldiers from the viceroy of Egypt to serve in portions of the coun- 
try unhealthy to Europeans. One of the dangers of employing these troops is, 
they may bring the cholera into the country. This plan was protested against 
by Mr. Seward, in a note to the French government, and it was discontinued, 
and the idea abandoned. 

From the most reliable information, the foreign legion consists of 12,900 men. 
Its losses are greater than those of the French troops, because it has taken part 
in almost all the important combats, with disastrous results, and has been sent 
to sickly regions where many died. Many of the Austrians sent to pacify 
Yucatan, perished there of yellow fever; and many Belgians died of fever in 
Michoacan. Typhus fever broke out recently in San Luis Potosi and destroyed 
many of the French garrison stationed there. 

The auxiliary corps of Mexican traitors is the smallest body of troops fighting 
for intervention, and they are kept so purposely on account of the mistrust with 
which they are regarded. Desertion from the imperial to the republican ranks 
is another cause of diminution in the former. We know of none other of the 
Mexican auxiliaries but those of Mejia's division in Matamoras, Oronoz's brigade 
in Colima, a few of them in Acapulco, and those with Mendez in Michoacan. 

As a summary of Napoleon's working forces in the field, we reckon 40,000 
foreign troops and 6,000 or 8,000 Mexican imperialists. As the insurrection 
has now become general all over the couutry, this force is entirely insufficient 
for the proposed pacification of Mexico. Unless supplied Avith constant re-en- 
forcements it will continue to diminish till it is useless ; and even with those it 
has had, it has done nothing to end its mission. 

In fact, the military operation of the last months of this year clearly demon- 
strate that the small fire is not so easily quenched, although the defenders of 
national independence were called bandits and were treated as such. Small as 
they may be and meanly as they are treated, their feeble efforts will soon put 
an end to monarchy and intervention. 

The republican cause is still sustained in Tabasco and Chiapas, and the 
national government kept up. As their peculiar position exempts them from 
frequent molestation, they employ their leisure time in preparing for new strug- 
gles, or in lending aid to the national forces in their vicinity. 

In the State of Vera Cruz General Garcia is attracting the enemy's attention, 
molesting him continually, and often doing considerable damage. "We occupy 
important places for a time, and then are compelled to abandon them to the 
imperialists. This was the case in Zongolica, Huatasco, and various other 
towns, which were alternately taken by both parties. The republicans have 
recently taken possession of Tlapacoyan. The traius on the railway between 
Cordova and Orizava are frequently fired into. One train was stopped ; the 
French were taken from it and executed. 

Colonels Figueroa and Diaz have continued fighting in Oaxaca with varied 
success. After taking Tehuacan, Figueroa gained another important victory in 
Trapichito, routing an Austrian column, and taking the money it was escorting. 
The newspapers of the capital reported that the republican forces were over- 
taken and punished ; but this could not have been true, as they soon returned 
to the field better equipped than they were before. The good sense of the 
people of Oaxaca will keep them steadfast in the good cause, particularly as 
they may expect aid from their neighbors, and can take advantage of the dis- 
sensions among the imperialist and Austrian authorities in the capital of the 
State. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIES IN MEXICO. 27 

Michoacan has been the theatre of events of much interest. The army of 
the centre has been reorganized, and has acquired such strength that its head- 
quarters are now only twelve leagues from Morelia. The commander-in-chief 
has divided his forces into three sections : one under Riva Palacio, another 
under Zepeda, and taking charge of the third himself. The first advanced upon 
Morelia on the 12th of October, and would have taken the town if the cavalry 
had not wasted time in pursuing some flying Belgians outside, which gave the 
besieged time to strengthen their fortifications within the city. Our forces thus 
frustrated retired, with considerable loss to the Belgians. 

The imperial newspapers also reported the defeat of Zepeda by Oarriedo, a 
lieutenant colonel in the employ of the interventionists. As we bave heard 
nothing of this from any other source we are inclined to doubt its truth. 

As to the third section, we mentioned it when speaking of General Arteaga's 
assassination. Mendez says his victory at Santa Ana Amatlan was owing to 
his hurried march of twelve leagues through the hot region ; but we think it 
more attributable to chance. 

The lamentable events mentioned have not put an end to the war in Michoa- 
can, a State that has distinguished itself in this war, for the chiefs there have 
given varied proofs of valor and constancy. General Regules has been put in 
command of the army of the centre, in place of General Arteaga. This distin- 
guished leader, assisted by Bonda, Garcia, and many others, will preserve the 
good name of the State, and may add new honors to its renown by future deeds 
of glory. 

The partisan leader, Ugalde, already so famous, has not failed to act in his 
line of business. He routed a force that was sent out after him from Mexico in 
San Felipe, and after a hard day's march had another encounter with the 
enemy, with the loss of a few of his men. As is usual, when republican news 
is reported in imperialist papers, Ugalde was said to be cut to pieces, and his 
force entirely destroyed. This was not true, for the formidable partisan made 
his appearance in a few days with a better force than before. 

The republican Escamilla routed the imperialists under Llorente, at Huasteca, 
and both leaders were killed in the action. 

It would be a tedious task to mention all the encounters of our partisans with 
the enemy ; suffice it to say, the republicans mostly get the advantage, and their 
number in the good cause increases, often swelled by those who had formerly 
figured in the intervention ranks when they had been forced to fight. General 
Juan Vicario belongs to this number ; he pronounced against the imperial gov- 
ernment in Matamoras. Fermin Valdes, lately killed in an encounter, was 
another of these. If a few of these partisans surrender, as Fragosa did, a sec- 
ond time, many others rise up to take his place, thus demonstrating that the 
contest will be interminable. 

In the State of Guerrero, where the public spirit has not been disturbed, the 
republican forces are increasing, and many of them joined General Diaz after 
his escape from prison. The brave sons of this State will soon have occasion 
to lend important aid to the national cause, as the port of Acapulco has been 
held since September by 500 men, under Montenegro, protected by the French 
fleet. When our garrison evacuated the town, most of the inhabitants left with 
them, and remained in the neighborhood, to prevent the entry of provisions for 
the enemy's use, as well as to harass them if they ventured outside. They can 
only get provisions now by sea. Many of the garrison are sick, and not a man 
can venture beyond the town without running the risk of capture. They would 
have been attacked and destroyed long ago but for the French vessels which 
protect them. They have lately received re-enforcements under a certain Torres, 
and, it is said, 500 more are coming from Mazatlan. For all this their position 
is not much better ; for, if they confine themselves to the port, disease and 



28 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

hunger will destroy them; and if they venture into the interior, the obstacles 
and difficulties they meet with will he insuperable in a defensive warfare. 

General Escobedo having determined upon a new campaign in the frontier 
States, marched upon Matamoras with all the troops he could raise in Tamau- 
lipas, Nuevo Leon, and Coahuila. The first cavalry brigade was left to guard 
Monterey. 

On the r22d of October the northern army corps camped at Alvino Peiia, 
within cannon-shot of the town. General Escobedo sent Colonel Sostenes 
Rocha to demand a surrender of the place. As it was refused, trenches were 
made by the republicans and batteries erected preparatory to an assault. 

Tomas Mejia finding some confederate officers among Maximilian's troops had 
them shot, because he had been informed that they intended to surrender the 
place to Escobedo, if they found an opportunity. 

On the 24th orders were issued for the attack next day. General Hinojosa 
was placed on the right, General Cortinas on the left, and a feint was to be made 
in the centre to divert attention. At 2 o'clock on the morning of the 25th a 
north wind and hard rain came on and continued till 5. As the weather pre- 
vented an attack, the troops stationed on the flanks fell back. At half past four 
the signal for attack was given, but, as it could not be simultaneous, it failed, 
though commenced with vigor. Hinojosa advanced first and penetrated the city 
to Independence square. The enemy was repulsed ; but, being reinforced from 
the forts, and supported by the steamer Antonia that came up the river and 
took our forces in the rear, we had to retreat to our original position. General 
Hinojosa and Colonel Adolfo Garza were badly wounded in the engagement. 
At that moment the left wing came in with boldness. General Cortinas took 
one fort and disabled another; but the enemy's reserve being free, fell upon 
their new assailants and drove them back. They withdrew in good order. 

Thus an affair that would have been of signal importance was frustrated by 
accident. If the attack had been simultaneous instead of partial, the repub- 
licans would have been victorious. 

Mejia then sent out his cavalry three consecutive times to attack our centre, 
and was driven back each time. 

There was no formal attack made afterwards. Rain and wind continued 
without. interruption. Skirmishes were lively every day. On the 7th Canales 
attacked a steamer bringing some French marines to aid, wounded a few men, 
but the steamer passed. 

Hard weather, want of munitions, and the news of the evacuation of Monterey 
by the French caused, us to raise the siege of Matamoras, after vainly endea- 
voring to provoke Mejia to battle in the open field. Cortinas remained guard- 
ing the post while Escobedo marched towards Monterey, on the 14th of No- 
vember, with the Naranjo brigade ; the rest of the troops went into quarters. 

The reason why Matamoras was not taken having been explained, it is evi- 
dent that natural forces, over which we had no control, prevented its fall. 

The imperialists, with their usual mendacity, misrepresented this attack ; they 
called it a defeat ; did not give the correct list of losses, and represented the 
republicans as annihilated. If that had been the case, why did not Mejia come 
out and give chase to the fugitives ? Even after Cortinas was left alone in front 
of the town, the interventionists did not dare to attack him. 

During the siege, the American soldiers in Brownsville continued to applaud 
the besiegers. The traitors and French asserted that they furnished ammunition 
to the Mexicans. This was the cause of a warm correspondence between the 
French marine Clouet, Thomas Mejia, and the American General Weitzel, in 
which the last completely disproves his infraction of neutrality, but does not 
conceal his sympathy, and that of his men, for the cause of the Mexican republic. 
Weitzel sent Clouet an insolent note, and would have nothing more to do with 
the presumptuous marine. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 29 

The evident preference of the American army, and all the people, for our 
cause, makes it hard for them to conceal their expressions ; and if the French 
troops do not withdraw from our soil this feeling will certainly bring about a 
conflict between France and the United States. General Escobedo, still design- 
ing to occupy Monterey, left Cadereyta Jimenez, the 22d of November, with 
the first and second New Leon brigades and two squadrons of Coahuila rifles, 
and stopped for the night at Guadalupe, one league from the said capital. It 
was known to Tinajero and Quiroga, in defence of the capital, that Kuperto 
Martinez had three hundred men for the republicans ; so they determined to attack 
us before that aid could come up. The attack was made on the 23d, and we 
stood it bravely. Then we attacked them, with Colonel Trevinos's cavalry in 
the flank and rear and the rest of our forces in front, and routed them com- 
pletely, taking many prisoners, and arms and ammunition of all sorts. 

The expected re-enforcements arriving the next day, the 24th, it was decided 
to storm the town. Three columns were arranged under Colonels Rocha and 
Naranjo, with commander Martinez. The attack was made so boldly the single 
forts soon fell into our hands, the garrison was dispersed, and the fugitives took 
refuge in the citadel and Obispo fort. The enemy's loss was great. 

As soon as our movements were known, Commander La Hayrie of Saltillo, 
and Jeanningros, just made general, who was going to Monclova, offered assist- 
ance to the besieged. La Hayrie, being the nearest, arrived first, reaching Mon- 
terey by forced marches on the morning of the 25th. He marched straight 
into the city and attacked us boldly ; but the republican infantry compelled him 
to retreat. Colonel Roca charged them with his cavalry, and drove them quite 
out of the city, with the loss of many killed and wounded. 

When General Escobedo was about to attack the French and traitors that 
had hid in the citadel and Obispo fort, he heard that Jeanningros was at San 
Francisco, only a league and a half from Monterey. As he had not enough 
forces to hold the place, he left it, in good order, at two o'clock in the afternoon 
of the same day, the 25th. 

We had gone but four leagues when the French cavaly overtook us, harass- 
ing our rear ; but we soon turned and drove them back. They returned to 
Monterey that night. Our troops continued their march unmolested to Camargo, 
where they intended to rest for a new campaign. 

Jeanningros's sudden arrival at Monterey annulled the good effect of our 
three successive victories on the 23d, 24th, and 25th November. 

Our repulse of Quiroga and Tinajero, in their first attack, was very commend- 
able ; and our subsequent assault and temporary capture of the city was a still 
more deserving feat. The commander said in his report of the affair : " With 
plenty of such soldiers, we would soon see the independence and liberty of our 
dear country secured." 

The interventionists distorted the events of Monterey as much as possible, 
according to their inveterate custom ; and the defeat of Tinajero and Quiroga 
at Guadalupe was changed into an imperial victory. The rout of La Hayrie 
was passed over in utter silence. They proclaimed a victory over the republi- 
can forces when they attacked our rear guard ; when we had only three wounded 
and eight scattered. The only thing they did not deny was the capture 
of Monterey, in which prevarication was impossible ; and that is the way im- 
perialists write history ! 

In order to concentrate the army, Marshal Bazaine ordered the withdrawal 
of the French that had invaded the States of New Leon, Coahuila, Chihuahua, 
Sinaloa, and Sonora in the months of September and October. This move- 
ment was made simultaneously, and was soon known by us. Jeanningros left 
Monterey and Saltillo for San Luis ; General Brincourt abandoned the State of 
Chihuahua, followed by all the traitors that had joined his party. This was a 
good lesson to those who had changed their principles so suddenly; they were 



30 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

suddenly abandoned by tbeir new friends, the invaders. The French lift every 
part of Sinaloa, except the port of Mazatlan, and the garrison Boon began to 
desert that place too. And finally, all the foreign troops in Sonora left Ures 
and Hermosillo and concentrated in Gruaymas, which place Colonel Gamier 
Boon left for Mazatlan. 

Before the evacuation of Sonora a very lamentable accident occurred. Gen- 
eral Rosale8, who was compelled to quit Alamos, returned in AugU8f to attack 
the imperialists garrisoned there. This he did with his accustomed courage, but 
was beaten back with considerable loss, and perished in the fight. Such was 
the lamentable but glorious end of the victor at San Pedro. Long will the 
country remember his deeds. 

After the evacuation of Chihuahua, the President determined to return to the 
capital of that State. Before he left El Paso he ordered a town to be laid out 
at Presidio del Norte, and named it Ojinaga, after the gallant general of that 
name who perished in defence of the national cause. He issued a circular, or- 
dering all generals, chiefs, and officers who had left the republic without ex- 
press leave from the government, or those who had overstaid their leave, to be 
imprisoned as soon as they returned and tried for the offence. * * 

Two days before the government left this place it was honored by a ball 
given by the American officers in Fort Bliss, as a testimonial of their sympathy 
and esteem, which had been shown before on several occasions. 

When the government returned to Chihuahua the new governor and military 
commander was in power. When the French left, they appointed Felix Macey- 
ra as governor, upon the recommendation of the principal citizens. Then 
Colonel Jose Merino, political chief and military commander of the eastern 
frontier of the State, making use of the power conferred upon him by the 
government, made Luis Terrazas political chief and military commander of the 
capital, and he immediately assumed the position, and he was soon confirmed 
in it by the State government. There was this singular coincidence with Ter- 
razas : he had been made political prefect of the department by General Brin- 
court, when the French had possession, and confirmed by Maximilian. Both 
appointments were undoubtedly made on account of his popularity. Maximi- 
lian did not know him, but presumed he would lend himself to the cause of in- 
tervention. He was much mistaken. Mr. Terrazas's loyal and patriotic con- 
duct will be honored in all time to come. 

The President left El Paso on the 1 3th of November, and arrived in Chihua- 
hua on the 20th. An account of his reception there was published in a supple- 
ment to the official paper on the 21st. It is a faithful and exact report of the 
memorable celebration. * * * * * * 

The government had hardly got to Chihuahua when it w T as rumored that the 
French had returned to the State. At first the strange report was hard to be- 
lieve, for it could not be imagined why the enemy should come back and re- 
possess the same places they had just left. But it was a serious fact, and the 
invading forces rapidly approached the capital. They were not far off, when 
the government resolved to return to El Paso a second time. 

To judge from reports, the advance movement of the enemy was general, 
just as the retreat had been a few months before. In fact, Jeanningi-os came 
back from San Luis to Monclova about that time, driving out Andres S. Vi- 
ezca, governor and military commander of the State of Coahuila de Zaragoza, 
and following him almost to Piedras Negras. We do not know if the same 
happened in Sinaloa and Sonora, but we presume it did, as that was Marshal 
Bazaine's general plan. 

Generals Itubi and Corona have their forces united in Sinaloa to oppose the 
enemy. They have possession of the entire State, except the port of Mazat- 
lan, and they were approaching to take that. They are prepared for every 
emergency. As to Sonora, although Gandara had induced many of the semi- 



CONDITION OF AFFAIES IN MEXICO. 31 

savages of the State to adhere to intervention, it is most probable he has been 
whipped by General Martinez and Colonel Correa, who went with a republican 
force to meet him. These chiefs, in union with General Garcia Morales, at any 
rate, will keep alive the flames of insurrection. 

The President of the republic reached this city on the 18th instant. At the 
distance of two leagues from town he was received by the local authorities, the 
principal citizens, and many country people. A band of music met him at the 
entrance of the. town, and accompanied him with crowds to the house prepared 
for his place of residence. The people applauded him as he advanced, and the 
firing of guns, the ringing of bells, and salvos of artillery expressed the public 
rejoicing. The houses of the principal streets were hung with curtains and 
flags. There was a banquet spread in the building prepared for the President, 
and it was attended by the local functionaries and many distinguished persons, 
some of whom carried their amiability so far as to wait on the table themselves. 
Many ladies called on the chief of the nation the next day, and he seemed de- 
lighted with the demonstration of preference thus displayed. 

General Ignacio Mejia was appointed minister of war on the 25th. The good 
services he has rendered his country on various occasions makes him worthy of 
the position. He was one of the chief defenders of the national cause on the 
memorable 5th of May, 1S62, and at the siege of Puebla, in the following year, 
where he was taken prisoner and sent to Prance. He has remained steadfast in 
his cause, and rejected indignantly all proposals of submission to the interven- 
tionist government. Now he has returned home, he will have an opportunity to 
devote himself anew to the service of his country, as he is now doing in the hio-h 
position to which he has been deservedly called by the confidence of the Presi- 
dent of the republic. 

A few days after the establishment of the government in this city, a report 
was circulated that the enemy from Chihuahua intended to attack us. This 
seemed very probable, as the invaders are doing all they can to drive the Chief 
Magistrate of the nation from Mexican territory. But it seems they are not in 
a condition to undertake new excursions, as the troops at the capital are not suf- 
ficient to garrison that place, and furnish an expedition against this, at the same 
time. It is even reported they are so weak, they are afraid of an attack from 
us, and are digging trenches and erecting fortifications for defence. 
_ In case of an attack upon us, we will be well prepared for it. Due prepara- 
tions for defence are making around us, and both the State and general govern- 
ments are collecting all the elements of war for the occasion. In case of the 
enemy's advance he will most probably meet with an unexpected resistance, ca- 
pable of frustrating his plans ; and even if it should not be so, he will scarcely 
succeed in driving the President from the national territory. 

All this will not put an end to the war that has already lasted four years ; 
nothing less than an abandonment of invasion will do it. The national cause 
is certainly in a better condition to-day than it was at the close of 1864. Great 
advances have been made against intervention in Europe, in the United States, 
and in our own republic, of late years, and we have taken care to note them 
down in the series of our reviews. The very probable withdrawal of the French 
troops ; the end of the civil war in the neighboring nation, and its firm position 
on the Monroe doctrine ; Maximilian's want of pecuniary means, and the im- 
possibility of obtaining them by loans ; the disorder of everything in the em- 
pire, and the determination in the country to resist foreign dominion— these are 
the marked advantages that have been gained within the last twelve months. 
Many anticipated advantages have been realized in 1865. We have good 
reason now to hope that French intervention will soon come to a close, and leave 
the Mexican republic to re-establish its former independence, and restore its 
liberal institutions before the end of the year of 1S66. 

Paso del Norte, December 31, 1865. 

ANTONIO DE CASTRO Y CARRILLO. 



32 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

No. 11. 
Mr. Seward to Scnor Romero. 

Department op State, 

Washington, .hilij 6, 1866. 

Sir : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of jour communication of 
the lSth of May last, containing some extracts from a pamphlet entitled "The 
Foreign Question/' published at Paso del Norte, for the information contained 
in which be pleased to accept my thanks. 

I avail myself of this opportunity to renew to you the assurances of my most 
distinguished consideration. 



Seiior Don Matias Romero, §t., fyc, fc. 



WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 



No. 12. 

Sen~or Romero to Mr. Seward. 

[Translation.] 

Mexican Legation in the United States of America, 

Washington, May 28, 1866. 
Mr. Secretary : As one of the many proofs of barbarity perpetrated by the 
French troops now desolating Mexico with the pretext of restoring peace, I have 
the honor to send you, for the information of the government of the United 
States, a copy of No. 14 of the official paper of the government of the Mexican 
republic, of the 26th of April last, and desire to call your attention to the cor- 
respondence therein published by the department of war and marine, consisting 
of the following documents : 

1. A communication from General A. S. Viezca, governor and military com- 
mander of the State of Coahuila, dated the 29th of January last, and addressed 
to the department mentioned, giving a report of his expeditions and stating that 
the French forces and interventionists had burnt the towns of Matamoras and 
Soledad and many houses in Viezca, all in that State, murdering fifty harmless 
and unarmed persons, two men over eighty years of age and a boy of twelve. 

2. Two orders signed by Maximo Campos, chief of a column of intervention 
troops under the command of the French General Brincourt, dated the 9th and 
10th of February last, and addressed to the associate judge of the town of San 
Lorenzo, commanding him to burn the houses of eleven persons who had de- 
serted his ranks, in which they had been forced, and to turn their families from 
their homes on account of the supposed crime ot their relatives. 

3. The reply of General Ignacio Mejia, minister of war, to the note of Gov- 
ernor Viezca, before referred to. 

4. A communication from General Luis Terrazas, governor of the State of 
Chihuahua, enclosing a note from the civil and military chief of the canton of 
Camargo, informing him that three hundred French had burnt the town of 
Atotonilco and several estates, one of them the Rancho de Palomas. 

5. Another communication from the same Governor Terrazas, containing the 
report ot the mayor of Atotonilco, on the 13th of April, giving details of the 
destruction of that place by the French, who turned the inhabitants out of their 
houses, and burned everyone of them, thus leaving a number of innocent families 
without shelter. The mayor added that the French soon left to destroy the town 
of Rio Florido in the same manner, and on quitting the ruins of Atotonilco 
they said nobody should live there again, and they would return in a week 
and shoot any one who had come back to live there. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 33 

6. And lastly, the minister of war's reply to the preceding communication. 

It seems to me unnecessary to comment upon these atrocities reported in the 
official documents I have the honor to enclose, as they plainly show the de- 
signs of the French in Mexico, and I have no doubt the government of the 
United States will coincide in the general opinion that is entertained. 

I embrace the occasion to renew to you, Mr. Secretary, the assurance of my 
most distinguished consideration. 

M. ROMERO. 

Hon. William H. Seward, fyc, fyc, fyc. 



[Translation from the official paper of the constitutional government of the Mexican repub- 
lic, No. 14.— Paso del Norte, April 22, 1866.] 

[Enclosure No. 1.] 

DEPARTMENT OF WAR AND MARINE. — GOVERNMENT AND MILITARY COM- 
MANDANCY OP THE STATE OF COAHUILA DE ZARAGOZA. 

The result of our victories in San Carlos and San Juan de Guadalupe de- 
termined us to march against Parras. It was thought expedient to draw the 
attention of the enemy in another direction, and with this intent, Colonel 
Geronimo Trevino, who was near Monterey with all his forces, was ordered to 
harass the enemy in the State of New Leon until we could unite and attack 
Saltillo or Monterey. He thought it a good idea, and prepared to start for 
Saltillo on the 15th of last month. 

Two hundred men were ready when news came from Cuatro Cienagas that 
Colonel Jesus Gonzales Herrera had to quit Parras with three hundred men, 
as General Brincourt was marching upon that place with a division, and was 
soon to unite with the forces of Francisco Trevino and Maximo Campos. So 
our proposed expedition upon Saltillo had to be postponed. 

Not many days had passed when we heard the French had burned Mata- 
moras and Soledad, and all the houses of loyal citizens in the town of Viezca. 
We also heard they had murdered fifty unarmed and innocent people, among 
them two men eighty years of age, and a boy of twelve. After that Brincourt 
returned to Durango, leaving only three hundred men to garrison Viezca. 

Now, as Jeanningros's forces were scattered, and as there were only three hun- 
dred men in Monterey, we determined to take that place with Trevino and 
Naranjo to assist us. 

I cannot here omit a respectful mention of the people of this frontier. In spite 
of their destitution they furnished ammunition, clothes, and provisions to the 
troops raised in their region, and contributed nine thousand dollars to equip 
Colonel Naranjo's forces ; they also gave aid to Colonel Zepeda's regiment, and 
even went to manufacturing powder for the brave patriots that needed it so much. 

The best soldiers in our army come from that region, and the best of it is, they 
are all volunteers ! 

I cannot close this despatch without informing you that when Commander 
Victor Berlanga was returning from Guadalupe, he was surprised by a large 
troop of French, but escaped with the loss of a few provisions. 

I will communicate the detail of recent events to the department as soon as 
received. You will please bring this to the knowledge of the supreme chief of 
the republic. 

Independence and liberty ! 



The Minister op War, Paso del Norte. 
San Buenaventura, January 29, 1866. 
3 mex. 



A. S. VIEZCA. 
EDUARDO MUZQUEZ, 

Secretary. 



34 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

[Enclosure No. 2.] 

government and commandancy of the state of coahuila de zaragoza. 

San Jose del Barrio, 

February 9, 1S66. 

As soon as you receive this order you will drive the families named in the 
margin out of their houses, as their fathers are deserters, and have them burnt, 
and if the inhabitants are refractory I will destroy the whole place. 

If any of the men make their appearance you will arrest them instantly and 
send them to me. 

MAXIMO CAMPOS, 

Commander-in- Chief. 
The Associate Judge of San Lorenzo. 

The names written in the margin are, Felix Rivera, Julian Rivera, Juan Car 
rillo, Encarnacion Mata, Maximo Agiiero, Isac Barrientos, Cruz Garcia, Eulogio 
Mesa, Pedro Anguiano, Bicardo Madril, and Bruno Mendez. 



[Enclosure No. 3.] 



Expeditionary column at Laguna, San Jose de los Alamos, 

February 10, 1S66. 

I have received your communication, and I am by no means pleased with 
your reply to rny orders to burn the houses of the deserters. What you say is 
only an evasion, an excuse for disobedience to superior orders, and it therefore 
becomes necessary to punish a judge severely as a warning to others. 

If my order to burn the houses, whether rented or owned, is not obeyed by 
the time my forces reach the place, the whole town shall be destroyed. 

MAXIMO CAMPOS, 

Commander-in- Chief. 
The Associate Judge of San Lorenzo. 

The two notes above are true copies of the originals, as certified by me, at 
San Jose del Burro, on the 19th of February, 1866. 

EDUARDO MUZQUIZ, 

Secretary. 



[Enclosure No. 4.] 



department of state, office of war and marine, section first. 

Paso del Norte, March 6, 1866. 

The President of the republic has received your communication of the 29th 
of January last, relating to the organization of a new company, and the oppor- 
tune aid of the citizens of the State. He is much pleased with this proof of their 
patriotism, and instructs me to thank you and them for signal services. 

He is indignant at the barbarous conduct of the French troops that came from 
Durango, under Brincourt, to burn the houses in Laguna, and murder many persons, 
among them two old men and a boy, in revenge for their defeat at San Carlos 
and San Juan de Guadalupe. Such acts are additional proofs of the negative 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 35 

blessings of intervention, and of the inhuman and sanguinary method the French 
leader are adopting to terrify the people of the country since it is impossible to 
conquer them. 

Independence and liberty ! 

MEJIA. 
The Governor and Military Commander 

of the State of Coahuila de Zaragoza. 



[Enclosure No. 5.] 

GOVERNMENT AND MILITARY COMMANDANCY OF THE STATE OF CHIHUAHUA. 

WAR SECTION NO. 39. 

In a communication of the 11th instant, the civil and military chief of the 
canton of Camargo writes to this department as follows : 

"Persons from Atotonilco report that three hundred French burnt that place 
yesterday, allowing families to leave. They say other places have been burned, 
Rancho de Palomas for instance, and it is not known whether the enemy will 
come on this way or go back." 

I send this for your information and consequent action. 

Independence and liberty ! Chihuahua, April 14, 1866. 

LUIS TERRAZxYS. 

The Minister of War and Marine, Paso del Norte. 



[Enclosure No. 6. ] 



GOVERNMENT AND MILITARY COMMANDANCY OF THE STATE OF CHIHUAHUA. — -- 

WAR SECTION NO. 42. 

In a communication of the 13th instant, the civil chief of the canton of Ca- 
margo writes to this department as follows : 

" The mayor of Atotonilco reported to this office yesterday as follows : 

" The French, to the number of two hundred and fifty infantry and fifty cav- 
alry, reached this place at two o'clock day before yesterday, and having taken 
possession, ordered all the houses to be vacated, with three days' provisions, 
as it would be burned next morning, every house except the church and 
parsonage. At sunset a general pillage began and continued to a late hour of 
the night. The pillage was resumed next morning, and the houses were 
burned. The enemy left the town in ruins this morning, and marched towards 
Rio Florido, to serve that place in the same way. The only kindness to us 
was sparing our lives ; nobody was killed ; but they threaten to return in a week 
and shoot any one who dares to come back. 

" I beg you to publish this notice, and put it in the hands of the commander 
of the line. Communicate it also to the governor." 

I send you the above for the information of the President of the republic. 

Independence and liberty ! Chihuahua, April 17, 1866. 

LUIS TERRAZAS. 

The Minister of War, fyc, El Paso del Norte. 



[Enclosure No. 7.] 
DEPARTMENT OF STATE, OFFICE OF WAR AND MARINE. — SECTION FIRST. 

The President of the republic has received your communication of the 17th 
instant, enclosing that of the civil prefect of Camargo, giving the particulars of 



36 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

the burning and sacking of Atotonilco by three hundred French of the invading 
army. This shows their spite against patriots who will not give up their coun- 
try'.-; cause. The justice of our cause will finally punish these criminals for 
their inhuman acts at Atotonilco and elsewhere; and those who have suffered 
from their cruelty shall receive due reward and compensation for the destruc- 
tion of their property. 

Independence and liberty ! Paso del Norte, April 23, 1866. 

MEJIA. 

The Governor and Military Commander of the State, of Chihuahua. 



No. 13. 

Mr. Seward to SeTwr Romero. 

Department of State, 

Washington, July 7, 1866. 
Sir : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of 
the 28th of May last, containing No. 14 of the official paper of your govern- 
ment, which you transmit for the information of the government of the United 
States. 

Be pleased to accept my thanks for the same. 

I avail myself of the opportunity to renew to you the assurances of my 
;jnost distinguished consideration. 



Senor Don Matias Romero, Sjv., fyc, Sfc. 



WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 



No. 14. 

Senor Romero to Mr. Seward. 
[Translation. ] 

Washington, June 10, 1866. 

My Dear Sir: I deem proper to communicate to you a copy of a letter 
which I received to-day from the Hon. Robert 0. Schenck, member of Congress 
from the State of Ohio, dated the day before yesterday in this city, making some 
inquiries in relation to a bill which had been introduced in the House of 
Representatives of the United States Congress, to guarantee certain bonds 
of the Mexican government. I also enclose a copy of my answer which I give 
on this date, to General Schenck. 

I am, Mr. Secretary, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

M. ROMERO. 

Hon. William H. Seward, 8/v., Sfc., Sfc. 



House of Representatives, 
Washington City, D. C, June S, 1866. 
Sir : You are doubtless aware that, as usually happens when any important 
measure is brought up as a subject of legislation, certain rumors have been set afloat 
to the prejudice of Mexican interests and of the efforts which the friends of the re- 
publican cause in your country have been making among us for its aid; namely, 
doubts to the effect that the proposed loan to Mexico may not be duly author- 
ized by your government ; and that, if guaranteed, the proceeds may in part fall 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 37 

into the hands of speculators, instead of being wholly placed at the disposal of 
the republican government of Mexico. 

As I feel a deep solicitude for the cause which your government is struggling 
to maintain, will you, in order that I may be able, if necessary, to afford the 
proper explanations, have the goodness to inform me — 

1. Is it under the direct auspices of the republic of Mexico that the proposal 
to guarantee such loan or loans is made ? 

2. Will the entire proceeds of such loan or loans, if guaranteed, be placed at 
the uncontrolled disposal of your government, passing into the custody of its 
duly authorized agents and officials, and will the money thus realized be paid 
out duly in conformity with the orders or contracts of the said government ; in 
a word, solely for the benefit of the republic of Mexico ? 

3. Will the bonds comprising said loan or loans be sold at the highest mar- 
ket price 1 

4. And finally, are the proposed proceedings in the premises and the arrange- 
ments for the sale of any loan or loans that may be guaranteed by the United 
States satisfactory to yourself and to your government ? 

I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

ROBERT 0. SCHENCK. 
His Excellency M. Romero, 

Envoy Extraordinary and Minister Plenipotentiary 

of the Republic of Mexico, Washington, D. G. 

t Washington, Junio 10 de 1866. 

A true copy : 

IGNO. MARISCAL, Secretary. 



Washington, June 10, 1866. 

Dear Sir : I have had to-day the honor of receiving your letter of the 8th 
instant, informing me that, " as usually happens when any important measure is 
brought up as a subject of legislation, certain rumors have been set afloat to the 
prejudice of Mexican interests and of the efforts which the friends of the repub- 
lican cause in my country have been making for its aid ; namely, doubts to the 
effect that the proposed loan to Mexico may not be duly authorized by my gov- 
ernment ; and that, if guaranteed, the proceeds may in part fall into the hands of 
speculators instead of being wholly placed at the disposal of the republican gov- 
ernment of Mexico." 

You are kind enough to add that "you feel a deep solicitude for the cause 
which my government is struggling to maintain," and that, "in order to be able, 
if necessary, to afford the proper explanations," you ask me for information on 
four different points. 

It is very gratifying for me, sir, to see that men of your character and stand- 
ing take so deep an interest in the cause of my country as to make you disposed 
not only to render her material aid, but to collect the necessary information 
which may enable you to answer the objections which might be raised to the 
disadvantage of Mexico. 

I have noticed that the friends of Mexico, among- whom I am glad to say you 
occupy a prominent place, have introduced a resolution in the House of Repre- 
sentatives of the United States with a view to give the guarantee of the United 
States to some amount of Mexican bonds. Although we have not proposed 
such plan, it would be entirely satisfactory to us if approved by Congress and 
the Executive of the United States, as it would meet, in my opinion, all the 



38 CONDITION OP AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

exigencies of the situation. Whatever may be the result of it, it will always be 
a source of great gratification to us to see that such an idea was conceived, and 
tried to be carried out, for the purpose of affording national aid to a neighboring 
people struggling for the cause of American nationality, self-government, and 
republican institutions. 

In what I have already written, I think I have answered your first question. 

My answer to your second question is as follows: Should the Mexican loan 
be guaranteed, I know of no reason why the proceeds of it should not be placed 
at the uncontrolled disposal of my government, passing into the custody of its 
duly authorized agents and officials. The money thus realized would be duly paid 
out in conformity with the orders or contracts of my said government, and only 
for the benefit of the republic of Mexico. 

In answer to your third question I have to state that the bonds comprising 
the loan so guaranteed would, of course, be sold at the highest market price that 
could be realized. 

In what I have written will be found, I believe, my answer to your fourth 
question. I will only add that my views and the views of my government in 
regard to the convenience and even necessity of obtaining means in this country 
to defend the independence and institutions of Mexico are fully expressed in a 
letter that I had the honor to address to the Secretary of State on the 23d of 
July, 1865, and which was sent by the President to Congress with his message 
of March 20, 1S66. (House Ex. Doc. No. 73, 39th Congress, 1st session, page 
176.) 

As for the arrangements made for the sale of any loan that may be guaran- 
teed by the United States, I will state that we have made very equitable 
arrangements with a New York house which brought to market the Mexican 
bonds offered for sale in October last, and signed by General Carvajal as agent 
of the Mexican government. These arrangements are satisfactory to myself 
and to my government. 

I am, sir, very respectfully, your most obedient servant, 

M. ROMERO. 

Hon. Robert C. Schenck, 8fc., fyc., fyc, Washington, D. C. 

Washington, Junto 10, de 1S66. 
A true copy : 

IGNO. MARISCAL, Secretary. 



No. 15. 

Mr. Seward to Senor Romero. 

Department of State, 

WasJiington, July 7, 1S66. 
Sir : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of 
the 10th ultimo, containing a copy of a letter addressed to you by the honorable 
Robert C. Schenck in relation to a project to guarantee certain bonds of your 
government, and to thank you for the information. 

I embrace this opportunity to renew to you the assurances of my most dis- 
tinguished consideration. 

WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 
Senor Don Matias Romero, Sp., fyc., fyc. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 39 

No. 16. 

Senor Romero to Mr. Seward. 
[Translation. J 

Washington, June 14, 1866. 
My dear Sir : I have the honor to transmit to you the copy of a letter I received 
yesterday from a reliable person in Bordeaux, dated the 31st of May last, giving 
me some important information relative to the intentions and plans of the French 
government in regard to Mexico. You are a better judge than I am of the im- 
portance to be attached to the information 1 deem it my duty to communicate 
to your department. 

I am, sir, very respectfully, your most obedient servant, 

M. ROMERO. 
Hon. William H. Seward, 8fc, 8fc, fyc. 



[Enclosure. ] 



Bordeaux, May 31, 1856. 



Much Esteemed Friend : 

An ex-minister of Maximilian writes from Paris to an acquaintance here, that 
since the Austrian volunteers that were about to embark for Vera Cruz were 
disbanded at Mr. Seward's request, an effort is being made to retain most of the 
French soldiers in Mexico under Mexican colors. I heard another person 
assure that a loan of six millions of dollars a year for four years was negotiating 
in France, to be secured by the pledge of mineral lands to be worked by a 
French company, with the privilege of shipping the ore to Europe to be reduced. 

Don Manuel Larrainzar, who went to St. Petersburg as agent for Maximilian, 
to solicit the recognition of the Emperor of Russia, writes to an acquaintance on 
the 25th instant as follows : 

" On passing through Paris I had a conversation with Mr. Drouyn de Lhuys ; 
and, in spite of the opposition of a certain party and the embarrassing position 
in which the Emperor will be placed, I think the French government will ex- 
amine Mexican affairs in all particulars, and will endeavor to solve them so as 
to leave the government of our august sovereign free and unembarrassed." 

Senor Don Matias Romero, Washington. 

Washington, June 14, 1866. 
A true copy : 

IGNO. MARISCAL, Secretary. 



No. 17. 

Mr. Seward to Senor Romero. 

Department of State, 

Washington, July 7, 1866. 
Sir : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of 
the 14th ultimo, transmitting copy of a letter addressed to you by a gentleman 
of Bordeaux intending to show the intentions of the French government with 
regard to Mexico, and to thank you for the information. ' 

I embrace this opportunity to renew to you the assurance of my distinguished 
consideration. 

WILLIAM H. SEWARD, 
Senor Don Matias Romero, Sfc, fyc., fyc. _; 



40 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

No. 18. 

Senor Romero to Mr. Seward. 
[Translation.] 

Mexican Legation to the United States of America, 

Washington, June 19, 1866. 
Mr. Secretary : I have the honor to transmit to you, for the information of the 
government of the United States, a lithograph copy in German, which I received 
by the last mail from Vera Cruz, of the proclamation dated the 19th of May last, 
addressed by the usurper Maximilian'to the Austrian and Belgian troops in his 
service, informing them that they would hereafter be paid by the French treas- 
ury, thus removing the obstacles of pay caused by the financial crisis in the so- 
called empire. 

I accept this occasion to renew to you, Mr. Secretary, the assurances of my 
most distinguished consideration. 

M. ROMERO. 
Hon. "William H. Seward, Sfc., Sfc, Sfc. 



[Enclosure.] 
To the officers, under-officers and soldiers of my Austrio- Belgian volunteer corps : 
Always mindful of the welfare and careful of the rights of my subjects, and 
remembering your oft-proved devotion and self-denial for my good during the 
present financial crisis, I have determined to accept the generous offer of mate- 
rial aid from France. From this time forward you will form part of one and 
the same division, you and your companions-in-arms, who are called to share 
your hardships and dangers. One administration will have the care of your gen- 
eral welfare ; but you will retain your excellent organization and your officers, 
whose capability and courage has served so often as a good example on the bat- 
tle-field and in the hour of victory. 

Thus are your rights and your interests secured, and now trust your emperor, 
who will always confide in your courage and good discipline. 

MAXIMILIAN", Emperor. 



A certified copy 



Mexico, May 19, 1866. 
THUN, General. 



No. 19. 

Mr. Seward to Senor Romero. 

Department of State, 

Washington, July 7, 1S66. 

Sir : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of 
the 19th ultimo, transmitting, for the information of the government of the United 
States, a lithograph copy, in German, of the proclamation addressed by the 
Prince Maximilian to the Austrian and Belgian troops in his service, informing 
them that they would henceforth be paid out of the French treasury. Be 
pleased to accept my thanks for the information. 

I embrace this opportunity to renew to you the assurance of my distinguished 
consideration. 

WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 

Senor Don M. Romero, Sfc., fyc, fye. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 41 

No. 20. 

Sefior Romero to Mr. Seward. 
[Translation.] 

Washington, July 4, 1866. 

My dear Sir : Believing you will be interested in the reception of reliable 
information concerning the transport of foreign troops to Mexico, to sustain the 
usurpation of the ex- Archduke Maximilian, I take the liberty of enclosing to 
you, with this letter, No. 1870 of Le Temps, a French paper published the ISth 
of June last, in Paris, on the third page of which is an extract from the Phare 
de la Loire, of the 16th, reporting the departure of a detachment of the so-called 
Foreign Legion, composed of four officers and 190 subalterns and soldiers from 
Aix to Saint Nazaire, to embark on the steamer Emperatriz Eugenie for Vera 
Cruz ; and a number of Austrian officers, who were to have gone in the steamer 
Tampico, went to Saint Nazaire to take the steamer for the same destination. 

An English translation of the article from the Phare de la Loire is also enclosed. 
Your most attentive and obedient servant, 

M. ROMERO. 

Hon. William H. Seward, Sfc., Sfc., Sfc. 



[Enclosure. ] 
[Translation from Le Temps, Paris, June 18, 1866.] 

We read in the Phare de la Loire of the 16th of June : 

" A detachment of the Foreign Legion, consisting of four officers, 190 sub- 
officers and soldiers, coming from Aix, arrived to-day, at 1.40 p. m., at Mauves 
station, and started from there this evening by the 4.30 train, going to Saint 
Nazaire to take their passage on board the transatlantic steamer Imperatrice 
Eugenie for Vera (Jruz. 

"A number of the officers of the corps of Austrian volunteers, who were to 
have left for Mexico by the Tampico, but were forced to remain in Austria, have 
also reached Saint Nazaire, for the purpose of embarking for Mexico." 



No. 21. 

Mr. Sezvard to Sefior Romero. 

Department of State, 
Washington, July 12, 1866. 
Sir : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of 
the 4th instant, containing a copy of a paper called Le Temps, and to thank you 
for its contents. 

I avail myself of this opportunity to renew to you the assurances of my 
most distinguished consideration. 

WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 
Sefior Don Matias Romero, fyc., fyc, 8fc. 



42 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

No. 22. 
ScTwr Romero to Mr. Seward. 

[Translation.] 

Mexican Legation in the United States of America, 

Washington, Jul y 8, 1866. 

Mr. SECRETARY: Although I presume that you have received through the 
United States legation in Paris the series of documents on the Mexican ques- 
tion presented in June last by the French government to its legislative body, 
and published in the Moniteur of the 10th and 11th of June, I take the liberty 
of sending you an English translation of them with this note. I enclose to you 
also the debate of the 13th in the legislative body on Mexican affairs, published 
in the Moniteur of the 14th. 

These documents give a new proof of the little sincerity of the French gov- 
ernment in its pretexts for making war on Mexico. 

In the ultimatum of the French commissioners, De Saligny and Rear-Admiral 
Jurien de la Graviere, made in January, 1862, at Vera Cruz, it was required 
(article 1) that Mexico should pay France twelve millions of dollars in cash 
and without examination, as indemnity for all claims caused by injuries to 
French subjects up to the 31st of July, 1861. 

This was done at the same time that the French minister of foreign affairs 
acknowledged officially that Mexico could make no cash payment. 

Now — that is, after five years' war — when the damages to French subjects 
on account of it must be much greater than in times of peace, when the Emperor 
of the French is not treating with the national government of Mexico, which it 
songht to destroy and establish a monarchy upon its ruins, but with its mannikin, 
the so-called chief of the monarchical farce established by French bayonets 
and supported by French gold, the Emperor Napoleon consents to receive forty 
millions of francs, or eight millions of dollars, as indemnity for all damages up 
to September, 1865, and to take that sum in paper issued by fraud, pretend- 
ing it is an obligation of the nation, when he who issued it has no right to do 
it, or to burden the nation in any way, and which paper, despite the efforts of 
the French government to give it value, is so worthless that nobody would 
buy it in France, according to late dates, unless they got five hundred franc 
bonds for one hundred and seventy francs. 

We cannot find out by this computation what it has cost the French govern- 
ment to effect the arrangement, but it must be at least four times the sum it 
now agrees to accept as indemnity to French subjects. 

This alone shows that the object of the war made by the Emperor Napoleon on 
Mexico is not to obtain reparation for supposed grievances, as was pretended, 
but to overturn a republican government and commence a monarchical propa- 
ganda in this hemisphere. 

I also take the liberty respectfully to call your attention to Mr. Jules Favre's 
speech, and that part relating to the United States, of Mr. Jerome David, who 
was the spokesman of the French government. 

I embrace the occasion to renew to you, Mr. Secretary, the assurances of my 
most distinguished consideration. 

M. ROMERO. 

Hon. William H. Seward, fyc., Sp., Sfc. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 43 

[Enclosure.] 

r Frorn the "Moniteur Universel,' 1 the official paper of the French government, Nos. 161 and 
162, of the 10th and 11th of June, 1866, pages 723 and 730.] 

DIPLOMATIC DOCUMENTS, 1866-UNITED STATES-CONTINUATION OF THE 
CORRESPONDENCE RELATIVE TO THE AFFAIRS OF MEXICO. 

The Secretary of State of the United States to Marquis de Montholon, French 
Minister at Washington. 

Washington, February 12, 1866. 

Sir: On the 6th of December I bad tbe honor to submit to you in writing, 
for the information of the Emperor, a communication upon the subject of affairs 
in Mexico, as affected by the presence of French armed forces in that country. 
On the 29th of January thereafter you favored me witb a reply to that com- 
munication, which reply had been transmitted to you by Mr. Drouyn de Lbuys, 
under tbe date of tbe 9th of the same month. I bave submitted it to the Pres- 
ident of the United States. It is now made my duty to revert to the interesting 
question which bas thus been brought under discussion. 

In tbe first place I take notice of the points which are made by Mr. Drouyn 
de Lbuys. 

He declares that the French expedition into Mexico had in it nothing hostile 
to the institutions of the New World, and still less of anything hostile to the 
United States. As proofs of this friendly statement, he refers to the aid in 
blood and treasure which France contributed in our ^evolutionary war to the 
cause of our national independence ; to the preliminary proposition that France 
made to us that we should join her in her expedition to Mexico ; and, finally, 
to the neutrality which France has practiced in the painful civil war through 
which we have just successfully passed. It gives me pleasure to acknowledge 
that the assurances thus given on the present occasion that the French expedi- 
tion, in its original design, had no political objects or motives, harmonize entirely 
with expressions which abound in tbe earlier correspondence of the minister of 
foreign affairs, which arose out of tbe war between France and Mexico. 

We accept with especial pleasure the reminiscences of our traditional friendship. 

Mr. Drouyn de Lhuys next assures us that the French government is dis- 
posed to hasten, as much as possible, the recall of its troops from Mexico. We 
hail the announcement as being a virtual promise of relief to this government 
from the apprehensions and anxieties which were the burden of that communi- 
cation of mine which Mr. Drouyn de Lhuys has had under consideration. 

Mr. Drouyn de Lhuys proceeds to declare that the only aim of France, in 
pursuing her enterprise in Mexico, bas been to follow up the satisfaction to 
which she had a right after having resorted to coercive measures, when measures 
of every other form had been exhausted. Mr. Drouyn de Lhuys says that it 
is known how many and legitimate were the claims of French subjects which 
caused the resort to arms. He then reminds us how, on a former occasion, the 
United States had waged war on "Mexico. On this point it seems equally 
necessary and proper to say, that the war thus referred to was not made nor 
sought by the United States, but was accepted by them under provocations of 
a very grave character. The transaction is past and the necessity and justice 
of tbe proceedings of tbe United States are questions which now rest only within 
the province of history. France, I think, will acknowledge, that neither in the 
beginning of our Mexican war nor in its prosecution, nor in the terms on which 
we retired from that successful contest, did the United States assume any posi- 
tion inconsistent with the principles which are now maintained by us in regard 
to the French expedition in Mexico. 

We are, as we have been, in relations of amity and friendship equally with 
France and with Mexico, and therefore we cannot, consistently with those 



44 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

relations, constitute ourselves a judge of the original merits of the war which is 
waged between them. We can speak concerning that war only so far as we 
are affected by its bearing upon ourselves and upon republican and American 
institutions on this continent. 

Mr. Drouyn de Lhuys declares that the French army, in entering Mexico, did 
not carry monarchical traditions in the folds of its flag. In this connection he 
refers to the fact that there were at the time of the expedition anumber of influential 
men in Mexico who despaired of obtaining order out of the conditions of the 
republican rule then existing there, and who, therefore, cherished the idea 
of falling back upon monarchy. In this connection we are further reminded 
that one of the later presidents of Mexico offered to use his power for the 
i-e-establishment of royalty. We are further informed that at the time of the 
French invasion the persons before referred to deemed the moment to have 
arrived for making an appeal to the people of Mexico in favor of monarchy. 
Mr. Drouyn de Lhuys remarks that the French government did not deem it 
a duty to discourage that supreme effort of a powerful party, which had its 
origin long anterior to the French expedition. 

Mr. Drouyn de Lhuys observes that the Emperor, faithful to maxims of 
public right which he holds in common with the United States, declared on 
that occasion that the question of change of institutions rested solely on the 
suffrages of the Mexican people. In support of this statement, Mr. Drouyn 
de Lhuys gives us a copy of a letter which the Emperor addressed to the com- 
mander-in-chief of the French expedition on the capture of Pueblo, which letter 
contained the following words: "Our object, you know, is not to impose on the 
Mexicans a government against their will, nor to make our success aid the tri- 
umph of any party whatsoever. I desire that Mexico may rise to a new life, 
and that soon, regenerated by a government founded on the national will, on 
principles of order and of progress, and of respect for the laws of nations, she 
may acknowledge by her friendly relations that she owes to France her repose 
and her prosperity." 

Mr. Drouyn de Lhuys pursues his argument by saying that the Mexican 
people have spoken ; that the Emperor Maximilian has been called by the voice 
of the country ; that his government has appeared to the Emperor of the French 
to be of a nature adequate to restore peace to the nation, and, on its part, peace 
to international relations, and that he has therefore given it his support. Mr. 
Drouyn de Lhuys thereupon presents the following as a true statement of the 
present case: France went to Mexico to exercise the right of war, which is 
exercised by the United States, and not in virtue of any purpose of intervention, 
concerning which she recognizes the same doctrine with the United States. 
France went there not to bring about a monarchical proselytism, but to obtain 
reparations and guarantees which she ought to claim ; and, being there, she now 
sustains the government which is founded on the consent of the people, because 
she expects from that government the just satisfaction of her wrongs, as well as 
the securities indispensable to the future. As she does not seek the satisfaction 
of an exclusive interest, nor the realization of any ambitious schemes, so she 
now wishes to recall what remains in Mexico of the army corps which France 
has sent (here, at the moment when she will be able to do so Avith safety to 
French citizens and with due respect for herself. 

I am aware how delicate the discussion is to which Mr. Drouyn de Lhuys 
thus invites me. France is entitled, by every consideration of respect aud 
friendship, to interpret for herself the objects of the expedition, and of the 
whole of her proceedings in Mexico. Her explanation of those motives and 
objects is, therefore, accepted on our part with the consideration and confidence 
which we expect for explanations of our own when assigned to France or any 
other friendly power. Nevertheless, it is my duty to insist that, whatever were 
the intentions, purposes, and objects of France, the proceedings which were 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 45 

adopted by a class of Mexicans for subverting tbe republican government there, 
and for availing themselves of French intervention to establish on its ruins an 
imperial monarchy, are regarded by the United States as having been taken 
without the authority, and prosecuted against the will and opinions, of the 
Mexican people. For these reasons it seems to this government that, in sup- 
porting institutions thus established in derogation of the inalienable rights of 
the people of Mexico, the original purposes and objects of the French expedi- 
tion, though they have not been, as a military demand of satisfaction, aban- 
doned, nor lost out of view by the Emperor of the French, were, nevertheless, 
left to fall into a condition in which they seem to have become subordinate to a 
political revolution, which certainly would have not occurred if France had not 
forcibly intervened, and which, judging from the genius and character of the 
Mexican people, would not now be maintained by them if that armed interven- 
tion should cease. The United States have not seen any satisfactory evidence 
that the people of Mexico have spoken, and have called into being or accepted 
the so-called empire which it is insisted has been set up in their capital. The 
United States, as I have remarked on other occasions, are of opinion that such 
an acceptance could not have been freely procured or lawfully taken at any 
time in the presence of the French army of invasion. The withdrawal of the 
French forces is deemed necessary to allow such a proceeding to be taken by 
Mexico. Of course the Emperor of France is entitled to determine the aspect 
in which the Mexican situation ought to be regarded by him. Nevertheless, 
the view which I have thus presented is the one which this nation has accepted. 
It therefore recognizes, and must continue to recognize, in Mexico only the 
ancient republic, and it can in no case consent to involve itself, either directly 
or indirectly, in relations with or recognition of the institution of the Prince 
Maximilian in Mexico. 

This position is held, I believe, without one dissenting voice by our country- 
men. I do not presume to say that this opinion of the American people is 
accepted or will be adopted generally by other foreign powers, or by the public 
opinion of mankind. The Emperor is quite competent to form a judgment 
upon this important point for himself. I cannot, however, properly exclude the 
observation that, while this question affects by its bearings, incidentally, every 
republican state in the American hemisphere, every one of those states has 
adopted the judgment which, on the behalf of the United States, is herein 
expressed. Under these circumstances it has happened, either rightfully or 
wrongfully, that the presence of European armies in Mexico, maintaining a 
European prince with imperial attributes, without her consent and against her 
will, is deemed a source of apprehension and danger, not alone to the United 
States, but also to all the independent and sovereign republican states founded 
on the American continent and its adjacent islands. France is acquainted with 
the relations of the United States towards the other American states to which I 
have referred, and is aware of the sense that the American people entertain in 
regard to the obligations and duties due from them to those other states. We 
are thus brought back to the single question which formed the subject of my 
communication of the 6th of December last, namely, the desirableness of an 
adjustment of a question the continuance of which must be necessarily preju- 
dicial to the harmony and friendship which have hitherto always existed be- 
tween the United States and France. 

This government does not undertake to say how the claims of indemnity and 
satisfaction, for which the war which France is waging in Mexico was originally 
instituted, shall now be adjusted, in discontinuing what, in its progress, has 
become a war of political intervention dangerous to the United States and to 
republican institutions in the American hemisphere. Recognizing France and 
the republic of Mexico as belligerents engaged in war, we leave all questions 
concerning those claims and indemnities to them. The United States rest con- 



46 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

tent with submitting to France the exigencies of an embarrassing situation in 
Mexico, and expressing the hope that France may find some manner which 
shall at once be consistent with her interest and honor, and with the principles 
and interest of the United States, to relieve that situation without injurious 
delay. 

Mr. Drouyn de Lhuys repeats on this occasion what he has heretofore writ- 
ten, namely, that it depends much upon the federal government to facilitate 
their desire of the withdrawal of tlie French forces from Mexico. He argues 
that the position which the United States have assumed has nothing incom- 
patible with the existence of monarchical institutions in Mexico. He draws to 
his support on this point the fact that the President of the United States, as 
well as the Secretary of State, in official papers, disclaim all thought of propa- 
gandism on the American continent in favor of republican institutions. Mr. 
Drouyn de Lhuys draws in, also, the fact that the United States hold friendly 
relations with the Emperor of Brazil, as they held similar relations with Itur- 
bide, the Mexican Emperor, in 1822. From these positions Mr. Drouyn de 
Lhuys makes the deduction that neither any fundamental maxim, nor any prece- 
dent in the diplomatic history of this country, creates any necessary antagonism 
between the United States and the form of government over which the Prince 
Maximilian presides in the ancient capital of Mexico. 

I do not think it would be profitable, and therefore I am not desirous to 
engage in the discussions which Mr. Drouyn de Lhuys has thus raised. It 
will be sufficient for my purpose, on the present occasion, to assert and to give 
reassurance of our desire to facilitate the withdrawal of the French troops from 
Mexico, and, for that purpose, to do whatsoever shall be compatible with the 
positions we have heretofore taken upon that subject, and with our just regard 
to the sovereign rights of the republic of Mexico. Further or otherwise than 
this France could not expect us to go. Having thus reassured France, it seems 
necessary to state anew the position of this government, as it was set forth in 
my letter of the 6th of December, as follows : Republican and domestic institu- 
tions on this continent are deemed most congenial with and most beneficial to 
the United States. Where the people of any country, like Brazil now, or Mex- 
ico in 1S22, have voluntarily established and acquiesced in monarchical institu- 
tions of their own choice, free from all foreign control or intervention, the United 
States do not refuse to maintain relations with such governments, or seek 
through propaganclism, by force or intrigue, to overthrow those institutions. 
On the contrary, where a nation has established institutions republican and 
domestic, similar to our own, the United States assert in their behalf that no 
foreign nation can rightfully intervene by force to subvert republican institu- 
tions and establish those of an antagonistic character. 

Mr. Drouyn de Lhuys seems to think that I have made a double reproach 
against the Prince Maximilian's alleged government, of the difficulty it en- 
counters and of the assistance it borrows from foreign powers. In that respect 
Mr. Drouyn de Lhuys contends that the obstacles and the resistance which 
Maximilian has been obliged to wrestle with have in themselves nothing es- 
pecial against the form of the institutions which he is supposed by Mr. Drouyn 
de Lhuys to have established. Mr. Drouyn de Lhuys maintains that Maxi- 
milian's government is undergoing the lot quite common to new powers, while, 
above all, it has the misfortune to have to bear the consequences of discords 
which have been produced under a previous government. Mr. Drouyn de 
Lhuys represents this misfortune and this lot to be in effect the misfortune and 
lot of governments which have not found armed competitors, and which have 
enjoyed in peace an uncontrolled authority. Mr. Drouyn de Lhuys alleges 
that revolts and intestine wars are the normal condition of Mexico, and he fur- 
ther insists that the opposition made by some military chiefs to the establish- 
ment of an empire under Maximilian is only the natural sequence of the same 



CONDITION OF AFFAIES IN MEXICO. 47 

want of discipline, and the same prevalence of anarchy, of which his predeces- 
sors of power in Mexico have been victims. It is not the purpose, nor would it 
be consistent with the character of the United States, to deny that Mexico has 
been for a long time the theatre of faction and intestine war. The United 
States confess this fact with regret, all the more sincere, because the experience 
of Mexico has been not only painful for her own people, but has been also of 
unfortunate evil influence on other nations. 

On the other hand, it is neither a right of the United States, nor consistent 
with their friendly disposition towards Mexico, to reproach the people of that 
country with her past calamities, much less to invoke or approve of the inflic- 
tion of punishment upon them by strangers for their political errors. The Mex- 
ican population have, and their situation has, some peculiarities which are doubt- 
less well understood by France. Early in the present century they were forced, 
by convictions which mankind cannot but respect, to cast off a foreign monarch- 
ical rule which they deemed incompatible with their welfare and aggrandize- 
ment. They were forced, at the same time, by convictions which the world 
must respect, to attempt the establishment of republican institutions, without the 
full experience and practical education and habits which would render those in- 
stitutions all at once firm and satisfactory. Mexico was a theatre of conflict 
between European commercial, ecclesiastical, and political institutions and dog- 
mas, and novel American institutions and ideas. She had African slavery, 
colonial restrictions, and ecclesiastical monopolies. In the chief one of these 
particulars she had a misfortune which was shared by the United States, while 
the latter were happily exempted from the other misfortunes. We cannot forget 
that Mexico, sooner and more readily than the United States, abolished slavery. 
We cannot deny that all the anarchy in Mexico, of which Mr. Drouyn de Lhuys 
complains, was necessarily, and even wisely, endured in the attempt to lay sure 
foundations of broad republican liberty. 

I do not know whether France can rightfully be expected to concur in this 
view, which alleviates, in our mind, the errors, misfortunes, and calamities of 
Mexico. However this may be, we fall back upon the principle that no foreign 
state can rightly intervene in such trials as those of Mexico, and, on the ground 
of a desire to correct those errors, deprive the people there of their natural right 
of domestic and republican freedom. All the injuries and wrongs which Mexico 
can have committed against any other state have found a severe punishment in 
consequences which legitimately followed their commission. Nations are not 
authorized to correct each other's errors except so far as is necessary to prevent 
or redress injuries affecting themselves. If one state has a right to intervene in 
any other state to establish discipline, constituting itself a judge of the occasion, 
then every state has the same right to intervene in the affairs of every other na- 
tion, being itself alone the arbiter, both in regard to the time and the occasion. 
The principle of intervention, thus practically carried out, would seem to render 
all sovereignty and independence, and even all international peace and amity, 
uncertain and fallacious. 

Mr. Drouyn de Lhuys proceeds to remark that as for the support which 
Maximilian receives from the French army, as well also as for the support 
which has been lent to him by Belgian and Austrian volunteers, those supports 
cause no hindrance- to the freedom of his resolutions in the affairs of his govern- 
ment. Mr. Drouyn de Lhuys asks what state is there that does not need allies, 
either to form or to defend. As to the great powers, such as France and England, 
do they not constantly maintain foreign troops in their armies 1 When the 
United States fought for their independence, did the aid given by France cause 
that movement to cease to be truly national? Shall it be said that the contest 
between the United States and the recent insurgents was not in a like manner a 
national war, because thousands of Irishmen and Germans were found fighting 
under the flag of the Union? Arguing from anticipated answers to these ques- 



48 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

tions, Mr. Drouyn de Lhuys reaches a conclusion that the character of Maxi- 
milian'^ government cannot be contested, nor can its efforts to consolidate itself 
he contested, on the ground of the employment of foreign troops. 

Mr. Drouyn de Lhuys, in this argument, seems to us to have overlooked two 
important tacts, namely: first, tliat the United States, in this correspondence, 
have assigned definite limits to the right of alliance incompatible with our assent 
to his argument ; and secondly, the fact that the United States have not at any 
time accepted the supposed government of the Prince Maximilian as a constitu- 
tional or legitimate form of government in Mexico, capable or entitled to form 
alliances. 

Mr. Drouyn de Lhuys then arranges, in a graphic manner, the advantages 
that have arisen, or are to arise, to the United States, from the successful estab- 
lishment of the supposed empire in Mexico. Instead of a country unceasingly 
in trouble, and which has given us so many subjects of complaint, and against 
which we ourselves have been obliged to make war, he shows us in Mexico a 
pacific country, under a beneficent imperial sway, offering henceforth measures 
of security and vast openings to our commerce, a country far from injuring our 
rights and hurting our influences. And he assures us that, above all other na- 
tions, the United States are most likely to profit by the work which is being 
accomplished by Prince Maximilian in Mexico. These suggestions are as nat- 
ural on the part of Prance as they are friendly to the United States. The 
United States are not insensible to the desirableness of political and commercial 
reform in the adjoining country ; but their settled principles, habits, and con- 
victions forbid them to look for such changes in this hemisphere to foreign, 
royal, or imperial institutions, founded upon a forcible subversion of republican 
institutions. The United States, in their customary sobriety, regard no bene- 
ficial results which could come from such a change in Mexico as sufficient to 
overbalance the injury which they must directly suffer by the overthrow of the 
republican government in Mexico. 

Mr. Drouyn de Lhuys, at the end of his very elaborate and able review, re- 
capitulates his exposition in the following words : "The United States acknowl- 
edge the right we had to make war in Mexico. On the other part, we admit, as 
they do, the principle of non-intervention. This double postulate includes, as 
it seems to me, the elements of an agreement. The right to make war, which 
belongs, as Mr. Seward declares, to every sovereign nation, implies the right to 
secure the results of war. We have not gone across the ocean merely for the 
purpose of showing our power, and of inflicting chastisement on the Mexican 
government. After a train of fruitless remonstrances, it was our duty to demand 
guarantees against the recurrence of violence from which our country had suf- 
fered so cruelly, and those guarantees we could not look for from a government 
whose bad faith we had proved on so many occasions. We find them now en- 
gaged in the establishment of a regular government which shows itself disposed 
to honestly keep its engagements. In this relation we hope that the legitimate 
object of our expedition will soon be reached, and we are striving to make with 
the emperor Maximilian arrangements which, by satisfying our interests and 
our honor, will permit us to consider at an end the service of the army upon 
Mexican soil. The Emperor has given an order to write in this same sense to 
our minister at Mexico. We fall back at that moment on the principle of non- 
intervention, and from that moment accept it as the rule of our conduct. Our 
interest, no less than our honor, commands us to claim from all the uniform ap- 
plication of it. Trusting the spirit of equity which animates the cabinet of 
Washington, we expect from it the assurance that the American people will 
themselves conform to the law which they invoke, by observing, in regard to 
Mexico, a strict neutrality. When you [meaning the Marquis de Montholon] 
shall have informed me of the resolution of the federal government, I shall be 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 49 

able to indicate to you the nature of the results of our negotiation with the em- 
peror Maximilian for the return of our troops." 

I bave already, and not without much reluctance, made the comments upon 
the arguments of Mr. Drouyn de Lhuys which seem to be necessary to guard 
against the inference of concurrence in questionable positions which might be 
drawn from our entire silence. I think that I can, therefore, afford to leave his 
recapitulation of those arguments without such an especial review as would 
necessarily be prolix, and perhaps hypercritical. The United States have not 
claimed, and they do .not claim, to know what arrangements the Emperor may 
make for the adjustment of claims for indemnity and redress in Mexico. It 
would be, on our part, an act of intervention to take cognizuice of them. We 
adhere to our position that the war in question has become a political war be- 
tween France and the republic of Mexico, injurious and dangerous to the United 
States and to the republican cause, and we ask only that in that aspect and 
character it may be brought to an end. It would be illiberal on the part of the 
United States to suppose that, in desiring or pursuing preliminary arrangements, 
the Emperor contemplates the estahlishment in Mexico, before withdrawing his 
forces, of the very institutions which constitute the material ground of the ex- 
ceptions taken against his intervention by the United States. It would be still 
more illiberal to suppose for a moment that he expects the United States to 
bind themselves indirectly to acquiesce in or support the obnoxious institutions. 
On the contrary, we understaud him as announc'ng to us his immediate pur- 
pose to bring to an end the service of his armies in Mexico, to withdraw them, 
and in good faith to fall back, without stipulation or condition on our part, upon 
the principle of non-intervention upon which he is henceforth agreed with the 
United States. We cannot understand his appeal to us for an assurance that we 
ourselves will abide by our own principles of non-intervention in any other sense 
than as the expression, in a friendly way, of his expectation that when the people 
of Mexico shall have been left absolutely free from the operation, effects, and con- 
sequences of his own political and military intervention, we will ourselves respect 
their self-established sovereign' y and independence. In this view of the subject 
only can we consider his appeal pertinent to the case. Regarding it in only 
this aspect, we must meet the Emperor frankly. He knows the form and char- 
acter of this government. The nation can be bound only by treaties which 
have the concurrence of the President and two-thirds of the Senate. A formal 
treaty would be objectionable as unnecessary, except as a disavowal of bad faith 
on our part, to disarm suspicion in regard to a matter concerning which we have 
given no cause for questioning our loyalty, or else such a treaty would be refused 
upon the ground that the application for it by the Emperor of France was un- 
happily a suggestion of some sinister or unfriendly reservation or purpose on his 
part in withdrawing from Mexico. Diplomatic assurances given by the President 
in behalf of the nation can at best be but tiie expressions of confident expecta- 
tion on his part that the personal administration, ever changing in conformity 
and adaptation to the national will, does not misunderstand the settled principles 
and policy of the American people. Explanations cannot properly be made by 
the President in any case wherein it would be deemed, for any reason, objec- 
tionable on grounds of public policy by the treaty-making power of the govern- 
ment to introduce or entertain negotiations. 

With these explanations I proceed to say that, in the opinion of the President, 
France need not for a moment delay her proposed withdrawal of military forces 
from Mexico, and her putting the principle of non-intervention into fall and 
complete practice in regard to Mexico, through any apprehension that the United 
States will prove unfaithful to the principles and policy in that respect whi h, 
on their behalf, it has been, my duty to maintain in this now very lengthened 
correspondence. The practice of this government, from its beginning, is a 
guarantee to all nations of the respect of the American people for the free sover- 
4 MBX. 



50 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

eignty of the people in every other Btate. We received the instruction from 
\\ ashington. We applied it Bternly in our early intercourse even wiih France. 
The game principle and practice have been uniformly inculcated by all our 
statesmen, interpreted by all our jurists, maintained by all our Congresses, and 
acquiesced in without practical dissent on all occasions by the American people. 
It is in reality the chief element of foreign intercourse iii our history. Looking 
Biff) ply toward the point to which our attention has been steadily confined, the re- 
lief of the Mexican embarrassments without disturbing our relation with France, 
we shall be gratified when the Emperor shall give to us, either through the 
channel of your esteemed correspondence or otherwise', definitive information <.f 
the time when French military operations may be expected to cease in .Mexico. 
Here I might perhaps properly conclude this note. Some i.bscmity, however, 
might be Buppostd to rest upon the character of. the principle of non-intervention, 
which avc are authorized to suppose is now agreed upon between the United 
►States and France as a rule for their future government in regard to Mexico. 
1 shall, therefore, reproduce on this occasion, by way of illustration, some of the 
forms in which that principle has been maintained by us in our previous inter- 
course with France. In 1861, when alluding to the possibility that the Em- 
peror might be invoked by rebel emissaries from the United States to intervene 
in our civil war, I observed : " The Emperor of France has given abundant proofs 
that he considers the people in every country the rightful source of authority, 
and that its only legitimate objects are their safety, freedom, and welfare." 

I wrote, also, on the same occasion, these words to Mr. Da\tou : "I have 
thus, under the President's direction, placed before you a simple, unexaggerated, 
and dispassionate statement of the origin, nature, and purpose of the contest in 
which the United States are now involved. I have done so only for the pur- 
pose of deducing from it the arguments you will find it necessary to employ in 
opposing the application of the so-called Confederate States to the government 
of his Majesty the Emperor for a recognition of their independence and sover- 
eignty. The President neither expects nor desires any intervention, or even 
any favor, from the government of France, or any other, in this emergency. 
Whatever else he may consent to do, he will never invoke or even admit foreign 
interference or influence in this'or any other controversy in which the government 
of the United States may be engaged with any portion of the American people. 
******* * 

" Foreign intervention would oblige us to treat those who should yield it as 
allies of the insurrectionary party, and to carry on the war against them as en- 
emies. 

" However other European powers may mistake, his Majesty is the last one 
of those sovereigns to misapprehend the nature of this controversy. He knows 
that the revolution of 177G, in this country, was a successful contest of the great 
American idea of free, popular government against resisting prejudices and errors. 
He knows that the conflict awakened the sympathies of mankind, and that ulti- 
mately the triumph of that idea has been hailed by all European nations. He 
knows at what cost European nations for a time resisted the progress of that 
idea, and, perhaps, is not unwilling to confess how much France, especially, has 
profited by it. He will not fail to recognize the presence of that one great idea 
in the present conllict, nor will he mistake the side on which it will be found. 
It is, in short, the very principle of universal suffrage, Avith its claim of obedi- 
ence to its decrees, on which the government of France is built, that is put in 
issue by the insurrection here, and is in this emergency to be vindicated and more 
effectually than ever established by the government of the United States." 

In writing upon the same subject to Mr. Dayton, on the 30th of May, 1861, I 
said : " Nothing is wanting to that success except that foreign nations shall leave 
us, as is our right, to manage our own affairs in our own way. They, as well 
as we, can only suffer by their intervention. No one, we are sure, can judge 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 51 

better than the Emperor of France how dangerous and deplorable would be the 
emergency that should intrude Europeans into the political contests of the Amer- 
ican people." 

In declining- the offer of French mediation, on the 8th of June, 1861, I wrote 
to Mr. Dayton : " The present paramount duty of the government is to save the 
integrity of the American Union. Absolute, self sustaining independence is 
the first and most indispensable element of national existence. This is a repub- 
lican nation; all its domestic affairs must be conducted and even adjusted in 
constitutional forms, and upon constitutional, republican principles. This is an 
American nation, and its internal affairs must not only be conducted with refer- 
ence to its peculiar continental position, but by and through American agencies 
alone." 

On the 1st of August, 1862, Mr. Adams was instructed by this government 
in the following words : " Did the European states which found and occupied 
this continent almost without effort then understand its real destiny and pur- 
poses ? Have they ever yet fully understood and accepted them 1 Has any- 
thing but disappointment upon disappointment and disaster upon disaster re- 
sulted from their misapprehensions ? After near four hundred years of such 
disappointments and disasters, is the way of Providence in regard to America 
still so mysterious that it cannot be understood and confessed ? Columbus, it 
was said, had given a new world to the kingdoms of Castile and Leon. What 
has become of the sovereignty of Spain in America ? Kichelieu occupied and 
fortified a large portion of the continent, extending from the Gulf of Mexico to 
the straits of Belle Isle. Does France yet retain that important appendage to 
the crown of her sovereign 1 Great Britain acquired a dominion here surpass- 
ing by a hundred-fold in length and breadth the native realm. Has not a large 
portion of it been already formally resigned 1 To whom have those vast do- 
minions, with those founded by the Portuguese, the Dutch, and the Swedes, 
been resigned but to American nations, the growth of European colonists and 
exiles, who have come hither, bringing with them the arts, the civilization, and 
the virtues of Europe 1 Has not the change been beneficial to society on this 
continent 1 Has it not been more beneficial even to Europe itself than continued 
European domination, if it had been possible, could have been 1 The American 
nations which have grown up here are free and self-governing. They have 
made themselves so from inherent vigor and obedience to absolute necessity. 
Is it possible for European states to plunge them again into a colonial state and 
hold them there ? Would it be desirable for them and for Europe, if it were 
possible ? The balance of power among the nations of Europe is maintained 
not without numerous strong armies and frequent conflicts, while the sphere of 
political ambition there is bounded by the ocean which surrounds that continent. 
Would it be possible to maintain it at all, if this vast continent, with all its 
populations, their resources, and their forces, should once again be brought within 
that sphere ? 

" On the contrary of all these suppositions, is it not manifest that these 
American nations were called into existence to be the home of freemen ; that 
the states of Europe have been intrusted by Providence with their tutelage, 
but that tutelage and all its responsibilities and powers are necessarily with- 
drawn to the relief and benefit of the parties and of mankind, when these par- 
ties become able to choose their own system of government, and to make and 
administer their own laws % If they err in this choice, or in the conduct of 
their affairs, it will be found wise to leave them, like all other states, the privilege 
and responsibility of detecting and correcting the error, by which . they are, of 
course, the principal sufferers." 

On the 8th of May, 1S62, Mr. Dayton was instructed to express to Mr. 
Thouvenel " the desire of the United States that peaceful relations may soon 



52 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

be restored between France and Mexico upon a basis just to both parties 
and favorable to the independence and sovereignty of the people of Mexico, 
which is equally the interest of France and all other enlightened nations." 

On ihe 21st of dune, 1862, Mr, Dayton was authorized to speak on behalf 
of tin- United Slates concerning the condition of Mexico in these words: 
"France has a right to make war against Mexico, and to determine for herself 
the cause. We have a right to insist that France sliali not improve the war she 
makes to raise up in Mexico an anti-republican or anti-American government, or 
to maintain such a government there." 

Accept, sir, a renewed assurance of my high consideration. 

WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 



The minister of foreign affairs to tlie French minister in Washington. 

Paris, April 5, 1SG6. 

Si a : I have read, with all the attention which it deserves, the answer of the 
Secretary of State to my despatch of the 9th of January last. The scrupulous 
care with which Mr. Seward lias pleased to analyze that despatch, and the ex- 
tended considerations upon which he has entered to define, in regard to the expose 
which 1 have made of the conduct of France in the affairs of Mexico, the doc- 
trines wh ch are the basis of the international policy of the United States, bear 
witness in our eyes of the interest which the cabinet of Washington attaches to 
putting aside all misapprehension. 

We find therein the evidence of its desire to cause the sentiments of amity 
which the traditions of a long alliance have cemented between our two conn- 
tries to prevail over the accidental divergencies, often inevitable, in the move- 
ment of affairs and the relations of governments. It is in this disposition that 
we have appreciated the communication which the Secretary of State has ad- 
dressed to you, the 12th of January last. I will not follow Mr. Seward in the 
developments he has given to the exposition of the principles which direct the 
policy of the American Union. It does not appear to me opportune or profita- 
ble to prolong, on points of doctrine or of history, a discussion, where we may 
differ in opinion from the government of the United States, without danger to 
the interests of the two countries. I think it better to serve those interests by 
abstaining from discussing assertions — in my opinion very contestable — in order 
to take action on assurances which may contribute to facilitate our understanding. 

We never hesitate to offer to our friends the explanations they ask from us, 
and we hasten to give to the cabinet of Washington all those which may en- 
lighten it on the purpose we are pursuing in Mexico, and on the loyalty of our 
intentions. We have said to it, at the same time, that the certainty we should 
acquire of its resolution to observe in regard to that country, after our departure, 
a policy of non-intervention, would hasten the moment when it would be possible 
for us, without compromising the interests which led us there, to withdraw our 
troops, and put an end to an occupation, the duration of which we are sincerely 
desirous to abridge. In his despatch of the 12th February last Mr. Seward 
calls to mind, on his part, that the government of the United States has con- 
formed during the whole course of its history to the rule of conduct which it 
received from Washington, by practicing invariably the principle of non-inter- 
vention, and adds that nothing justifies the apprehension that it should show 
itself unfaithful in what may concern Mexico. We receive this assurance with 
entire confidence, and we find therein a sufficient gui rantee not any longer to 
delay the adoption of measures intended to prepare for the return of our army. 
The Emperor has decided that the French troops shall evacuate Mexico in 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 53 

three detachments : the first being intended to depart in the month of Novem- 
ber, 1866 ; the second in March, 1867 ; and the third in the month of November 
of the same year. 

You will please to communicate this decision officially to the Secretary of 
State. 

Keceive, marquis, the assurance of my high consideration. 

DROUYN DE LHUYS. 



Drouyn de Lhuys to M. Dano, French minister in Mexico. 

Paris, August 14, 1S65. 
Sir : I am in receipt of your despatches up to the 10th of July. What you 
write concerning our claims attracted my attention in a most particular manner. 
You were right in judging that the necessity which existed for a speedy settle- 
ment with our countrymen would prompt us to abate in some measure our 
legitimate demands. 

I am of opinion myself that the settlement in round figures, which you have 
proposed for adoption to the government of Maximilian, would be on the whole 
advantageous to our citizens, and, of course, acceptable to us. For this reason 
I would request you to insist in the most urgent manner in order to obtain, 
without delay, the adherence of the Mexican government to the plan of settle- 
ment which you have arranged. 
Keceive, &c. 

DROUYN DE LHUYS. 



The French minister in Mexico to the minister of foreign affairs. 

Mexico, September 28, 1865. 
Excellency : I have received the despatch which you did me the honor to 
address me on the 14th of August last. 

Your excellency having thought fit to approve the settlement in a lump which 
I proposed for adoption to the government of the emperor Maximilian, in order 
to arrive at a speedy conclusion of this business relating to French claims, I 
have resumed, with renewed activity, this important negotiation, which, however, 
I had not for one moment let out of sight. 

I have this day the satisfaction of being able to announce that my efforts have 
not been altogether fruitless, and that I signed yesterday an agreement which, 
if I mistake not, will satisfy every interest at stake in this matter. 
Be pleased to accept, &c. 

DANO. 

Certain modifications in form having become necessary, the ratification of the 
above mentioned agreement was delayed some time. The principal points in it, 
however, are set forth below. According to this plan the total indemnity due 
to Franee for injuries done to the persons aud property of her citizens by Mexican 
governments or agents is fixed in bulk at the sum of forty millions of francs. 
This amount is to be paid in Mexican bonds, at par, and the French government 
is to divide these among its citizens who have claims, according to its own judg- 
ment of what is proper and convenient. The French government has already 
in hand, as trustee, a payment on account amounting to twelve millions of francs 
in bonds of the first Mexican loan, which was negotiated in Paris at sixty-three. 
These twelve millions should represent, at par, the sum of sixteen millions four 



54 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

hundred and forty thousand francs. The remaining twenty-three millions five 
hundred and sixty thousand francs Bhall be paid in bonds of the .-Mine issue, at 
par, through the Mexican financial commission established al Paris. After 
having delivered the bonds for this amount of forty millions of francs, the Mexi- 
can governmenl is to be considered as free from all liability as regards the claims 
of Frenchmen that shall have been presented up to that date; and the French 
government binds itself not to intervene in la\ or of any claims that may be pre- 
sented therea ter for past damages. As a consequence of this settlement article 
twelve of the agreement signed at Miramar on the ISth of April, 1864, is abro- 
gated in so far as it relates to French claims. 



The minister of foreign affairs to the French minister in Mexico. 

Paris, November 14, 1S65. 

Sir: I have laid before the council of ministers the plan of settlement which 
you transmitted in your despatch of September 28, and it was made the subject 
of special deliberation. Two questions were raised and discussed in succession, 
namely : the amount of our indemnity, and the manner of payment requisite. 
When the government of the Emperor decided upon accepting a settlement in 
the lump of French claims, Marshal Bazaine was instructed to demand for that 
object of the Mexican government the remittance of fifty millions of francs in 
bonds of the second Mexican loan. These were to be added to the twelve mil- 
lions of bonds (loan of 1864) already in our hands, under the terms of the 
Miramar agreement. 

The sum required by us at this time is about the amount which the French 
commission, appointed afterwards by yourself to examine the question, pointed 
out as required to indemnify our countrymen in an equitable manner, say 
$12,754,366. The plan of settlement which you have signed with M. Cesar 
fixes the total amount of indemnity allowed our countrymen at only forty mil- 
lions of francs, payable in Mexican bonds at par; and in these forty millions 
are included the twelve millions already in our hands. There is, then, a wide 
difference between the figure which you have accepted and what we considered 
ourselves justifiable in claiming. After having, however, weighed carefully the 
motives that have prompted you to make this amount the basis of a settlement, 
the government of the Emperor has approved your determination. 

His majesty the emperor Maximilian, having shown his readiness, on his side, 
to agree to the figure of forty millions of francs, and your private information 
warranting you in the belief that that amount might, in the last resort, suffice 
for the indemnification of our countrymen, it has appeared more conformable to 
French interests that a solution should be hastened by even abating, in some 
measure, our legitimate demands, rather than by maintaining them, and thus de- 
lay still longer the settlement for which our citizens have waited so long. 

In accepting the amount of indemnity set down in your plan of settlement, 
we could not, however, agree to the manner of payment stipulated therein. In- 
deed, there would be a difficulty for the Mexican government to fulfil the agree- 
ment in the manner prescribed. According to the terms proposed, the twenty- 
three millions five hundred and sixty thousand francs, which would have to be 
liquidated in order to complete the forty millions of indemnification, are to be 
remitted in bonds of the first loan, at par, by the Mexican commission of 
finances in Paris. 

Now the following circumstances render the literal execution of this clause 
impracticable at present; for while the French treasury, making use of the 
privilege granted to it at the time the second loan was negotiated, converted 
the bonds that had been delivered in pursuance of the Miramar treaty into se- 



CONDITION OP AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 55 

curities similar to those that had been emitted in 1863, and afterwards negotiated 
them, the Mexican commission likewise took advantage of the same occasion to 
act in like manner with the bonds of the 1864 loan that remained in its hands. 
At the present time, then, that commission has not a single bond of the first 
loan in its possession to use in fulfilment of the plan now under consideration. 
The Mexican government should already be aware of this fact, because, at the 
time, it was notified of the transaction. Hence a new combination must be sub- 
stituted for the one contemplated in the present plan of settlement. As the 
conversion of bonds of the first loan was optional, it is more than probable 
that the five hundred thousand bonds of the second issue will not be all used, 
because a number of the holders of the 1864 six- per cents will fail to take ad- 
vantage of the privilege granted them. Hence the minister of fina nces thinks 
that there will remain a sufficient quantity of unemployed bonds of the new 
issue to meet the engagements entered into by the Mexican government in 
this plan of settlement with us. It is, consequently, in bonds of this second 
issue, and not in those of the first loan (as prescribed by the terms of the plan) 
that the 23,560,000 francs specified in article four can be remitted; and. in this 
state of the case, I pray you to request that the necessary orders be forwarded 
to the Mexican commission of finances in Paris, so that it may hand over to us 
so much of the remainder of these new bonds as may be necessary to cover the 
amount above stated. 
Receive, &c. 

DROUYN DE LHUYS. 



The French minister in Mexico to the minister of foreign affairs. 

Mexico, December 28, 1865. 

Excellency : The despatch which you did me the honor of writing to me 
on the 14th of last November came to hand on the 13th instant. 

On the same day I took active measures to have the agreement, which I signed 
for the settlement of our claims, modified in what relates to the kind of bonds 
payable to our countrymen. At first I met with lively opposition. The emperor 
and M. de Castillo maintained (what is fact) that the settlement with bonds of 
the second issue in place of those of the first would be more onerous to the 
Mexican treasury, as the conversion of the first bonds into those of the second 
issue and the settlement of the differences in premium had occasioned pretty 
considerable outlays. However, I manifested so much urgency that I obtained 
my demand on the following day. I made them understand that it was neces- 
sary to place the Emperor Napoleon and his government in a position to 
announce before the French chambers that the matter of French claims upon 
Mexico is most decidedly settled. In order that there could be no doubt upon 
the subject, and that the concession which I asked should have a decidedly 
official character, I brought about an exchange of notes with M. de Castillo upon 
the matter. 

The clause in accordance with which the sum of 23,560,000 francs, in bonds 
of the first loan at par, were to be delivered to us, having become impracticable 
on account of the conversion of said first loan, it remains settled that we are to 
receive that amount in such bonds of the second issue as remain unemployed. 

The Mexican minister of foreign affairs has given instructions in this sense to 
the Mexican minister at Paris, and the Mexican commission of finances there is 
to hand over the bonds as soon as the agreement shall have been ratified. 

I shall await the instructions of your excellency to know what changes are 
to be made in the wording of the agreement. Please to accept, &c. 

DANO. 



56 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

The French minister in Mexico to the minister of foreign affairs. 

Mexico, January 18, I860. 

Excellency: Von arc aware thai I have already obtained from the Mexican 
government the stipulation that our claims shall be paid in bonds of the second 
series, second loan. The Mexican legation at Paris has received advices to the 
Bame effect, but the under-secretary of Gnances bad not received the order to 
deliver the bonds to us. According to him they are not to be delivered until 
after the agreemenl Bhall have been officially ratified. I have opposed this 
view, which is calculated to cause further delays. 

As both governments are agreed regai-ding the alterations to be made in the 
plan of settlement, it should 1 e considered as morally ratified. M. Cesar being 
now absent, the emperor has sent me from Chapultepec a telegram, in which he 
notifies me that M. Langlais is authorized to give the necessaiy orders to the 
Mexican commission ofcfinances at Paris. 1 sent the telegram to our counsellor 
of state on this Mexican mission, (M Langlais,) but he, as I supposed be would, 
considers himself unauthorized to give any orders, seeing that he bears no official 
character, 

However, I have asked him to write to M. Fould, or to M. de Germiny, and 
to annex the telegram to bis letter, in Older to show what were the emperor 
Maximilian's intentions. To-morrow I shall try to get M. de Castillo to have 
orders telegraphed for the formal delivery of the bonds. Please to accept, &c. 

DANO. 



The French minister in Mexico to the minister of foreign affairs. 

Mexico, February 9, I860. 
Excellency : M. de Castillo informs me that instructions are about to be 
forwarded for the delivery to you, by the Mexican commission of finances in 
Paris, of 46,120 bonds of the second series, second loan, representing the balance 
of our indemnity, twenty-three million five hundred and sixty thousand francs. 
The minister of foreign affairs requests, at the same time, that the agreement of 
September 27 be ratified by the Emperor of the French, so that it may afterwards 
pass through the same formality at the bauds of the emperor Maximilian, after 
the necessary alterations shall have been made in the wording of certain articles 
of said agreement. Please to accept, &c. 

DANO. 



M. Drouyn de Lhuys to M. Dano, minister of France to Mexico. 

Paris, January 14, 1866. • 

Sir : The situation in which we are placed in our relations with Mexico can- 
not be prolonged. We are compelled by circumstances to take a final resolu- 
tion, and of which the Emperor has directed me to acquaint you. 

At the beginning, our expedition bad no other object than the recovery of 
our debt, and to obtain such reparation as was due to our fellow-citizens. If, 
however, we have deemed it desirable to grant our assistance to a nation which 
was seeking a regular government, order and welfare; if, taking thought for 
our legitimate interests, we have countenanced a prince who devoted himself to 
this generous task, our efforts had to be confined within the precise limits which 
the convention of Miramax attempted to determine. Reciprocal arrangements 
laid down in this act fixed the terms on which we were allowed to use the forces 
of France in consolidating a friendly government. It would be superfluous 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 57 

to insist upon the causes which make it impossible for the court of Mexico, 
notwithstanding its intended uprightness, to fulfil these conditions in the future. 
On the one hand, our demand for more credit proved fruitless ; on the other, we 
cannot go outside of stipulations and take exclusive charge of the Mexican 
government — provide with our army for its defence, and with our finances for its 
administrative service. The advances we have more than once made cannot be 
renewed, and the Emperor will ask no new sacrifices from France. 

Our occupation, therefore, must be brought to a*n end, and we must prepare 
ourselves for that result without delay. The Emperor, sir, commissions you to 
agree upon it with his august ally as soon as a discussion, in which Marshal 
Bazaine will naturally be called to participate, shall have determined how to se- 
cure, as much as possible, the interests of the Mexican government, the safety 
of our debt, and the claims of our fellow-citizens. The desire of his Majesty 
is that the evacuation should begin during the coming fall. 

Have the kindness, sir, to communicate this despatch to his excellency the 
minister of foreign affairs, and to let him have a copy of it. I have commis- 
sioned M. le Baron Saillard to add verbally all necessary explanation, and to 
bring me back speedily your answer. You will let me know the final arrange- 
ments you conclude upon. 

DEOUYN DE LHUYS. 



M. Drouyn de Uiuys to M. Dano, minister of France to Mexico. 

Paris, January 15, 1866. 

Sir : I think it necessary to add some explanations upon the subject to which 
my despatch of yesterday refers. 

The settlement of our claims resulting from the convention yon signed in 
Mexico, on the 27th of September, 1865, and which has received the approval 
of his Majesty, secures to our fellow-citizens satisfaction for the damages they 
have sustained. No doubt this convention will be faithfully executed ; thus 
will the most essential object of our expedition be obtained, and redress will be 
secured for the grievances which have compelled us to take up arms. 

I need not recall the considerations by which we were induced, nor indeed to 
lose sight of the object of our expedition, but to avail ourselves of it to offer 
to Mexico the benefits of a political regeneration. This idea, the legitimacy and 
disinterestedness of which we reassert, has determined the support we have 
lent to the courageous undertaking of emperor Maximilian. Decided as we 
were to countenance his efforts, we had, however, to adjust the conditions of 
our co-operation to the measure of the French interests, which were, after all, 
our first consideration. 

The desire of our far-sighted Emperor has been to defend his government 
against the allurements of a generous idea, by defining the nature and by limit- 
ing beforehand the extent of the aid we were allowed to bestow. We have, at 
the same time, been obliged to stipulate for the equivalent which we were to 
receive, and to fix the quota and the payment of the sums destined to defray 
our expenses. Such was the object of the convention of Miramar, which was 
to remain the rule of our reciprocal duties and rights. 

It would be uninteresting to revert to the circumstances which prevented the 
Mexican government from fulfilling the obligations it had assumed by this act, 
and which threaten to lay upon our shoulders, without any of the promised com- 
pensations, the charge of the new empire. I need not refer to the copious obser- 
vations to be found, on this subject in my correspondence with the legation of 
the Emperor, nor seek for the causes of a situation which I feel called upon to 
explain. The contract by which we were bound to the Mexican government 
having been broken, we are released from the obligations we had assumed. 



58 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

Nevertheless, sir, we might not have taken advantage of the failure of the 
Mexican government in fulfilling the conditions of the treaty of Miramar to de- 
clare ourselves discharged from our obligations, if we had not been driven to it. 
The Mexican government is unable to furnish the financial resources indispen- 
sable to the keeping up our military establishment, and we have even been asked 
to take charge of most of the expenses of its home administration. These diffi- 
culties are not new, and we have repeatedly attempted to provide for them by 
facilitating loans which have put at the disposal of Mexico considerable amounts 
of money. But now every attempt to borrow has been found fruitless. "What, 
then, have we to do in presence of the ascertained deficiency of the Mexican ex.- 
chequer and of the charges its penurious circumstances have laid upon us ? Our 
budget does not give us the means of supplying this deficit. Mexico being un- 
able to pay for the troops we are keeping upon its territory, it would be impos- 
sible for us towaiutain them there. As to asking from our country new sup- 
plies to this end, I have already explained to you our views on that subject. As 
I told you, public opinion has pronounced with an authority from which there 
is no appeal that the limit of the sacrifices has been reached. 

France would refuse to add anything to them, and the Emperor will not ask her. 
Far be it from me to doubt the efforts made by the emperor Maximilian and by 
his government. The emperor has resolutely approached the difficulties inhe- 
rent in all new establishments, difficulties which the condition of Mexico ren- 
dered perhaps still more arduous. His energy has been felt everywhere, and if 
he has not been allowed to reorganize the country as he wished, and as fast as 
he intended, nevertheless the results actually achieved indicate the activity and 
zeal he has shown. In the provinces as well as in the capital, wherever the 
emperor and the empress, the courageous associate of her august husband, have 
been enabled to make themselves known personally, the reception of the people 
testifies to the confidence they feel and the hopes they build upon the strength- 
ening of the empire. The emperor himself has proclaimed that civil war is at 
an end, if resistance to his authority could deserve such a name. 

This condition of affairs, encouraging in so many respects, leads me to ask if 
the well-understood interests of the emperor Maximilian do not agree with the 
necessities of our own position 1 Among all the reproaches put forward by the 
liberals in the interior and by adversaries outside, the most dangerous, doubtless, 
is the charge that the newly established government is sustained by foreign 
forces. The votes of the Mexicans have undoubtedly answered this imputation ; 
it still exists, however, audi it is easy to understand how useful it would be for 
the empire to deprive its adversaries of this argument. 

At a time when these various considerations constrain us to look upon the 
approaching end of our military occupation, the government of the emperor, 
in its solicitude for the glorious work he has begun, had to take into account 
the financial situation of Mexico. This situation is grave, but not desperate. 
The Mexican empire can, if energetic and courageous, firm and consistent, tri- 
umph over difficulties in its way ; but success depends on these conditions. 
This is the conviction we have derived from an attentive and conscientious ex- 
amination of its obligations and resources. You will endeavor to make them 
understood by the emperor Maximilian and by his government. 

DEOUYN BE LHUYS. 



Mr. Drouyn de LJmys to the minister of France in Mexico. 

Paris, February 16, 1866. 
Sir : At the date of this despatch M. Saillard must have arrived in Mexico- 
The instructions of the government of the Emperor are therefore known to you- 
His Majesty himself has taken care, in his opening speech to the legislature, to 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 59 

inform the great bodies of the state of his resolution. To-day I have but to re- 
iterate the general directions contained in my communications of the 14th and 
15th of January, and to ask you to settle without delay with the Mexican gov- 
ernment the conditions necessary to accomplish the views of the Emperor. 

The desire of his Majesty, you know, is to begin the evacuation of Mexico 
next fall, and to bring it to an end as soon as possible. You will have to see 
Marshal Bazaine, so as to agree upon the successive terms of the evacuation with 
the emperor Maximilian. 

I cannot develop here the various considerations which must be kept in mind 
in the direction of this operation. Those which are purely military and tech- 
nical in their nature belong to the commander-in-chief; the others, more politi- 
cal in their character, are submitted to your judgment, enlightened by your per- 
fect knowledge of the circumstances and of the necessities they impose. 

It is equally important, sir, to make up a statement of the financial situation, 
and to fix on the guarantees required for the security of our debt. The pro- 
visions of the treaty of Miramar not having been realized, it is necessary to 
avert to other combinations to secure the reimbursement of our advances, and 
at the same time provide, in the interest of the Mexican credit, for the regular 
arrears of the debt of 1864 and 1S65. Mr. Langlais will receive, by this mail, 
from the minister of finances, detailed iistructions, which he will communicate 
to you. You will have to consult with him so as to secure their execution. 

The government of the Emperor thinks that the simplest and' least onerous 
arrangement for the Mexican government would be to place in our hands the 
custom-houses of Vera Cruz and Tampico, or any others which may be deemed 
more convenient. Half the receipts would be assigned to us and applied, a por- 
tion to the payment of the three per cent, interest of our debt, estimated at 
$230,000,060, the other as a partial guarantee of the interest due to the holders 
of the loan of 1864 and 1865. It is to be hoped that, under our administrative 
care, these custom-houses will still furnish, in addition to the deduction agreed 
to, an important revenue. You will have to make the necessary arrangements 
with the Mexican cabinet to be put in possession of the receipts of these cus- 
tom-houses. 

These points once settled, and the French interests secured, the government 
of the Emperor will nevertheless continue to testify all those sympathies with 
which the sovereign of Mexico, and the generous task to which he has devoted 
himself, inspire his Majesty. Be pleased, sir, to give, in the name of his Ma- 
jesty, this assurance to the emperor Maximilian. 

DROUYN DE LHUYS. 



M. Dano, minister of France to Mexico, to tlie minister of foreign affairs in 

Mexico. 

City of Mexico, March 9, 1866. 

Monsieur le Ministre : I have received the despatches your excellency has 
favored me with on the 1 4th and 15th of January. 

I have to iniorm you that the well-settled intention of the Emperor is to begin 
the evacuation towards fall. I am at the service of the emperor Maximilian in 
order to fix this term definitely, in accordance with the instructions I have re- 
ceived. Meanwhile Marshal Bazaine is engaged in measures calculated to secure, 
so far as possible, all unsettled interests. 

Your excellency is already acquainted with the intention of the commander- 
in-chief of the army. The evacuation, which is to begin in the month of No- 
vember next, will end during the fall of 1867, that is to say, will be completely 
accomplished in eighteen months. 

DANO. 



60 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

[Newspaper comments. — From L'Estafette, of Mexico city.] 
FRENCH CLAIMS. 

The publication of the diplomatic documents relating to the convention of 
September 27 has stirred up our whole French population. We arc unwilling 
to pass a hasty judgment upon a matter of so much weight ; and, for this reason, 
we will seek for enlightenment from parties better versed than ourselves in 
financial affairs before we attempt to treat a subject that interests so large a 
number of our fellow-countrymen. At present, we can do no more than present 
to our readers some general considerations. 

We have been asked, •• Does this convention coverall claims; and is the sum 
of forty millions of francs, set apart in a lump for claimants, intended to satisfy 
all the legitimate claims sanctioned by the commission?" To this we answer 
unhesitatingly and upon official authority that this sum of forty millions is to 
cover merely claims anterior to September 27, 1S65 As to those which have 
been presented since or may yet he handed in a new settlement is to he made. 

The question which gives most concern, however, is to know whether the 
present settlement can seriously he regarded as an acceptable one, when it 
brings no other security than bonds that are becoming discredited. These 
bonds of the second loan were issued at three hundred and forty francs; they 
are to-day quoted at one hundred and thirty-nine; in six months they will fall 
to one hundred, and later to fifty. If it comes to this the twenty-three millions 
spoken of in these official documents will be a payment made in derision — a 
financial puff of smoke. It would be, in the end, equivalent to aboui. ten or 
twelve per cent, on the stipulated amount. Hence Ave may cast all anxiety 
aside, for such a result is simply impossible. The second Mexican loan has 
been virtually guaranteed by the French government; for it was at the recom- 
mendation of the minister of finances and of the general and local revenue offi- 
cers of the empire that six thousand families, composed of mechanics, workmen, 
and farmers, invested their savings in these bonds thus officially patronized. 
We may then rest assured that the French government remains responsible for 
the payment of this loan, and we know from good authority that, far from 
shirking the responsibility, it is considering the expediency of converting the 
lottery loan into French three per cents., and that the conversion will be made 
before six months. From this point of view the settlement would present a se- 
rious aspect, and would be satisfactory. Some further light, however, should be 
thrown upon this point. 

Many of our fellow countrymen have been considering the expediency of 
calling a meeting of claimants to take the matter calmly into consideration. 
We shall announce the day, the hour, and place of the meeting when we shall 
have learned them. 



The minister of foreign affairs to the minister of France in Mexico. 

Paris, August 14, 1S65. 

Sir: Your despatches up to the 10th of July have been received. My at- 
tention was particularly directed to what you said in regard to our claims. 
You were right in thinking that we might diverge from our emergencies to de- 
termine the fate of our citizens as soon as possible. 

I therefore consider the general arrangement you propose to the government 
of Maximilian would be beneficial to our citizens, and consequently acceptable 
to us. I accordingly invite you to insist upon the reception of your arrange- 
ment by the Mexican government. 

DROUYN DE LHUYS. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 61 

The French minister in Mexico to the minister of foreign affairs. 

Mexico, September 28, 1865. 

Sir : Your despatch of the 14th of August ha3 been received. 

As you approve of my plan to settle the French claims which was marie to 
the government of the emperor Maximilian, I will resume the important nego- 
tiation with renewed activity. 

I am pleased to inform you that my efforts have not been vain, and that I 
signed a convention yesterday, the 2d, which will satisfy all parties interested, 
unless I am very much mistaken. 

DAXO. 



The modifications of the convention of the 27th of September, 18G5, having 
delayed its ratification, we will merely set down the principal dispositions of 
that diplomatic act. 

The sum total of indemnity due to France for wrongs to its citizens in prop- 
erty or person by the Mexican governments or their agents is fixed at forty 
millions of* francs. 

That sum shall be paid by drafts on the revenue at par, and the French gov- 
ernment shall portion it among its citizens as it may think proper. 

The French government has on deposit already a sum of twelve millions of 
francs, on account, in bonds of the first Paris loan, issued at six per cent., repre- 
senting a sum of sixteen million one hundred and forty thousand francs. The 
remaining twenty-three million five hundred and sixty thousand francs shall be 
delivered in bonds of the same kind at par by the Mexican committee of finance 
established in Paris. 

After the forty millions of francs shall have been paid, the Mex'can govern- 
ment shall be considered as free from all responsibility to the French for claims 
till now, and the French government agrees not to interfere in any to be made 
hereafter. 

In consequence of the execution of this convention, article 12 of the Miramar 
convention, made on the 10th of April, 1864, is repealed, as far as French claims 
are concerned. 



The minister of foreign of airs to the French minister in Mexico. 

Paris, November 14, 1S65. 

Sir : I have reported your plan for a convention to settle French claims, 
which was sent with your despatch of the 2Sth of September, to the council of 
ministers for particular consideration. The two important parts — the amount 
of indemnity and the mode of payment — have been separately debated. 

When the government of the Emperor decided upon a consolidation of citi- 
zens' claims, Marshal Bazaine was instructed to demand the sum of fifty mil- 
lions of francs from Mexico of the second loan, to be added to the twelve millions 
of 1864, already in our hands, in accordance with the convention of Miramar. 

What we now ask is about the same sum, fixed by the commissioners as suf- 
ficient to liquidate the claims of our citizens, namely, $12,754,366. Your con- 
vention with Mr. Cesar makes the sum of the claims only forty millions of francs, 
including the twelve millions already in our hands. That makes a considerable 
difference between the sum you accept and what we think we have a right to 
claim ; but, after due consideration, the government of the Emperor approves 
your resolution. 

As his majesty, the emperor Maximilian, seems disposed to accept the forty 



62 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

millions, and you think it sufficient indemnity for our citizens, and as it is cer- 
tainly to their interests to settle the business, even if we have to abate our de- 
mands, it is agreed to accept those proposals j but, in accepting the amount, we 
do not accept the mode, of payment proposed. 

In fact, the Mexican government cannot pay according to the demands of the 
convention. By the terms of that document the 23,560,000 francs remainder, 
with the twelve millions already in our hands, were to have been paid to us in 
titles of the first loan, at par, by the Mexican finance committee in Paris. Now, 
the following circumstances make the execution of that clause impossible at the 
present time. 

While the French treasury was changing the titles of the first loan into obliga- 
tions similar to those issued in 1865, the committee of Mexican finance took ad- 
vantage of the same opportunity to dispose of the remaining titles of 18G4. So 
now the committee has no more of those titles in its possession to fill the requi- 
sitions of the convention. The Mexican government ought to consider this, as 
notice has a' ready been given of it. A new combination must, therefore, be 
substituted. 

As the plan of conversion of the titles of the first loan is feasible, it is more 
than probable that the five hundred obligations of the second series will not all 
have been disposed of, since a certain number of the holders uf the '64 six-per- 
cents will not use the power granted to them. 

The minister of finance thinks there will remain a sufficient number of the new 
obligations to pay our claims against Mexico. The 23,560,000 francs, men- 
tioned in article 4, may, therefore, be paid in obligations of the second series, 
and I beg you to ask that these obligations be sent to the Mexican finance com- 
mittee in Paris to pay the above amount specified. 

DROUYN DE LHUYS. 



The French minister in Mexico to the minister of foreign affairs. 

Sir : Your despatch of the 14th of November last reached me on the 13th in- 
stant. I immediately set about the modification of the convention in regard to 
titles for our citizens. At first I met with strong opposition. The emperor and 
Mr. Castillo asserted that the remission of obligations similar to those of the 
seco"nd loan, instead of the first, would be more onerous to the Mexican treasury, 
as the expenses of negotiation were greater. J3ut I was so urgent I succeeded 
the next day. I convinced them of the necessity of putting the Emperor Napo- 
leon and his government in a condition to say to the French chambers that the 
terms of the claims had been arranged. 

To place it beyond doubt, and to give an official character to the affair, I 
exchanged notes with Mr. Castillo on the subject. 

The clause by which 23,560,000 francs in titles of the first loan were to 
have been paid having been shown to be impossible, it was agreed to receive it 
in obligations of the secoad series, unappropriated. 

The minister of affairs has instructed the Mexican minister in Paris in the 
particular, and the Mexican committee will remit the obligations as soon as the 
convention is ratified. 

I will wait for your excellency to inform me what changes are to be made in 
the convention. 

DANO. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 63 

The French minister in Mexico to the minister of foreign affairs. 

Mexico, January 18, I860. 

Sir : Your excellency already knows that I have iuduced the Mexican gov- 
ernment to pay us in obligations of the second series of the last loan. The 
Mexican legation in Paris has been notified of it; but the undei -secretary of 
state for finance has not yet issued the order for the titles, which he says can- 
not be done till the convention is officially ratified. I opposed the idea, as it 
would cause a greater delay. 

The two governments having agreed upon the modifications necessary iu the 
convention, it ought to be considered as morally ratified. Mr. Cesar being 
absent, the emperor sends me a telegram from Ohapultepec, informing me that 
Mr. Langlais is empowered to give the necessary orders to the Mexican finance 
committee. I sent the telegram to the state counsellor, who says he is not au- 
thorized to oi'der anything, as he has no official character. 

I then requested him to write to Mr. Fould or Mr. Germiny, enclosing the 
telegram containing the emperor's intentions. To-morrow I will try t} send 
the formal order to remit the titles, by telegraph, through Mr. Castillo. 

DANO. 



The minister of France in Mexico to the viinistcr of foreign affairs. 

Mexico, February 9, 1866. 

Sir : Mr. Castillo informs me that the Mexican finance committee in Paris 
will be instructed to deliver 46,120 obligations of the second series, representing 
the 23,560,000 francs, to pay our indemnities, into our hands. 

The minister of foreign affairs exacts of me, at the same time, that the con- 
vention of the 27th of September be ratified by the Emperor of the French, to 
be afterwards subjected to the same formality by the emperor Maximilian, as 
soon as the proper modifications have been made in it. 

DANO. 



[From the Moniteur Universel, the official paper of the French Empire, No. 165, page 746. — 

Paris, June 14,1866.] 

LEGISLATIVE BODY. 
Session of Wednesday , June 13, 1866. 

His excellency Count Walewski presiding. 

The President. Mr. Jules Favre has the floor. 

Mr. Favre. The recent distribution in the chamber of documents explaining 
our situation in Mexico, compels us to examine the conduct of the government 
in the affair, and the resolutions it proposes to adopt. 

This obligation is the more urgent, as the present disturbances in Europe may 
injure our honor, our safety, or our repose. It is, therefore, necessary to deter- 
mine what is to be done in an expedition that might embarrass us seriously, in 
case of European conflicts. 

For myself, I will not go into a minute examination of all the difficulties of 
the expedition. I have given my opinion often before, and it has not changed 
lately. The time has not yet arrived when we can speak the whole truth. As 
long as our troops are engaged in Mexico we must suspend judgment. But 
what seems to me most proper at present, is to find out what has been done 



G-l CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

since wo mot last, and what remains to be done. The government plan, though 
much like what we have always advised, cannot receive our complete approba- 
tion, and for very many reasons. 

The declarations of the government, which yon once applauded, wore fall of 
promises, and yon opposed everything thai did not accord with them, accusing 
those who dared to contest them as narrow-minded pessimists, incapable oi' com- 
prehending generous conceptions and vast designs. Alas, gentlemen, the reality 
discovered by the government has destroyed those sad fictions. 

I promised to be moderate, and I will keep my word. On looking over the 
documents circulated among yon, I reject, the first. The best way to treat that 
is to keep silence. Yet. gentlemen, the government is obliged to accept that 
document, and to confess that we are compelled to give up .Mexico. But a dif- 
ferent light is thrown upon the condition of affairs in that country. 

You remember, from the beginning, it has always been predicted that the ex- 
pedition would be successful; but, in obtaining the approbation of the chamber, 
I regret that the truth was not revealed. [Murmurs by the majority.] 

1 will not go into a minute examination, as I said. You remember the min- 
ister of State's declarations upon the relations of France and Maximilian, when 
a convention united them. You remember the weekly bulletins announcing the 
enthusiasm in Mexico for the new sovereign, and of the dispersion of all bands 
opposed to the new rule. These points will be discussed hereafter; I now con- 
line myself to more recent occurrences. 

Last year, when we dared to express our want of confidence, we were told 
that the policy we were attacking was beyond our comprehension. It would 
bring glory to France and her sovereign ; and the minister of state concluded 
in these words on the 27th January, 1S64 : 

"And now let me give you my entire mind. Tassion will die, questions of 
gain will be lost sight of in the public prosperity, and truth will sha^e off her 
shackles for the good of posterity. If you then look back upon our old debates 
and squabbles, you will exclaim, That was a man of genius, who had the cour- 
age to open new sources of prosperity to the nation, of which he was the chief, 
in spite of resistance, obstacles, and distrusts. He was the apostle of a bold 
policy, far-seeing and wise, whose views were not limited to the present genera- 
tion, who understood the present and the future, who knew that the balance of 
power in Europe was not, as it used to be, on the Alps and Pyrenees, on the Vis- 
tula or the Black sea." " But let it embrace the world, and if these great in- 
terests concern France, let her protect them by her flag. Yes, this will be a 
glorious page, and the historian who traces it will say to the assembled nation, 
as the sovereign has done : Distant expeditions, begun to revenge our honor, 
have ended in triumph." Such, gentlemen, is the history written by the firm and 
hardy hand of the minister of state. 

By the side of this document we have another of no less importance. At the 
beginning of our labors, the Emperor spoke of Mexico as follows : " The new 
throne in Mexico is gaining strength; peace is extending; the immense resources 
are being developed ; thanks to our soldiers, to the good sense of the Mexican 
population, and to the intelligence and energy of its sovereign." And these 
words were consecrated by some lines on the situation of the empire : ''The 
results of our Mexican expedition in 18G2 and 1S63 have been consecrated in 
1S64 Under the shadow of the French ilag, a regular government has been 
established in a country where anarchy and domestic quarrels have raged for 
half a century. The emperor Maximilian ascended the throne in the beginning 
of Jane, and, supported by our army, he is preparing an era of peace and pros- 
perity for his new country." 

1 his flattering panegyric was disturbed by the voice of a warrior, who led 
our victorious legions into Mexico. In the debate on the address, on the 11th 
of March, 1865, he said in the senate : 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 65 

" Unfortunately everything is to be done over again in Mexico. Moral feel- 
ing is entirely depraved ; there is no rule, no justice, no army, no spirit of na- 
tionality, no nothing." And the honorable marshal continues : " But it is not the 
nation's fault— the nation is kind, generous, proud, noble, and, as it is formed 
of Oastilian blood, I do not despair of it." 

These are attenuating circumstances to Mexico. The honorable gentleman 
had a patriotic indulgence for a country which he severely condemned by say- 
ing it lacked moral feeling, justice, &c, &c, and out of nothing something could 
be made. 

Such was the state of affairs in 1865. Yet at that time there was trouble 
about fhe finances. 

Though the people seemed willing to sustain the new throne, the enthusiasm 
was very expensive; 150 millions were spent in 1864 and 1865, and 250 mil- 
lions more were demanded. You have not forgotten the loan undertaken by 
the government. We called the attention of the chamber to its significance at 
that time. 

Aside from all political prejudice and high considerations, we ask ourselves, 
Is it possible that a loan of such onerous conditions can succeed ? It is to be 
raised by lottery ! The confidence of moneyed men is to be seduced by vulgar 
tricks. And such things are tolerated ! You don't see the danger. Mexico is 
willing to borrow at such a high rate because she knows the debt cannot be 
paid ! 

One of my honorable colleagues, who had loyally discharged the duties of a 
private mission, who knew Mexico and had a right to speak of it, made a soft- 
ening speech to this chamber not long ago. His discourse removed all trouble, 
and seemed to condemn all those who doubted the success of the new rule in 
Mexico. That speech helped the new loan. 

That happened in April, 1865, and for the rest of the year we continued to 
ask for official information on Mexican affairs, and none came. The Moniteur 
only gave reports of this kind, after the arrival of each mail : 

"All is quiet : but there are malcontents wherever our forces have not pos- 
session. Maximilian's popularity continues to increase. But our army is on 
the alert, and skirmishes are frequent." 

Here is one important fact proclaimed by the Moniteur : "On the 2d .of Oc- 
tober, 1865, Juarez left the territory, and now there is but one ruler in Mexico." 
Soon after we get this from New York : 

"In spite of the activity of Juarez's agents in this city, the cause of the ex- 
president may be regarded as lost. It is officially announced that Juarez has 
quitted the Mexican soil, giveu up his cause, and settled in the United. States. 
The last Havana steamer brings the French news that the emperor Maxi- 
milian issued a proclamation on the 2d of October declaring that Don Benito 
Juarez, after a long contest, had at last yielded to the national will and quit 
Mexico." 

How can Maximilian, the liberator of his country, reconcile this with the ty- 
ranny of Juarez, which required four years to put down? And now he an- 
nounces that fill who oppose him shall be shot ! And he concludes the procla- 
mation thus : "And all brigands hereafter pretending to be his partisans shall 
be considered as outlaws and treated as robbers." 

The Moniteur continues : 

"The New York correspondence of the 23d of October, which we publish 
below, gives some interesting details regarding the state of public opinion in the 
United States on the Mexican question." 

The facts announced by the official paper are not true, except in regard to the 
proclamation of Maximilian, and his treatment of those opposed to him. Un- 
fortunately, gentlemen, that much is true, and history will record the truth. But 
the untrue part is, that the rebels had not ceased to make opposition. Maximilian's 

5 MEX 



66 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

proclamation was dated the 2d of October, 1865. On the 10th of November, 
Marshal Bazaine wrote to Riva Palacio, of the centre Juarist army, asking an 
exchange of prisoners. It is useless to quote the letter, but it shows that the 
struggle is not over, as the Moniteur has announced to Europe. In November, 
18(35, the fighting continued, the loan had been effected, and the money was 
ready to be squandered in Mexico. 

In September, 1865, though two hundred and fifty millions more had been 
Subscribed, our citizens had not been indemnified, and the expedition, which was 
only to effect that, had already lasted four years. It is but proper to tell you here 
the amount of the claims against Mexico is only 750,000 francs. 

So, gentlemen, we had four millions to claim, then twelve, and lastly sixty 
millions against Mexico. But in September, 1865, nothing was settled. Among 
the documents distributed among us, there is a despatch to which I will call your 
attention. In September, 1S65, a treaty to fix the indemnity was concluded, 
and forty millions was the sum determined upon. 

In my opinion, this was enough. I don't know what the commissioners 
have done with that forty millions. I think it is in drafts upon an empty treas- 
ury. At least the creditors have received no pay. Perhaps the government 
can tell us. It was right to make the arrangement, whether the money could 
be had or not. On page 30 of Mr. Dano's despatch, December 28, 1865, I see 
the emperor Maximilian objected to the settlement of the claims. Hear what 
the French charge in Mexico says about it: 

" At first I met with great opposition. The emperor and Mr. Castillo asserted 
that the remission of obligations similar to those of the second loan, instead of 
the first, would be more onerous to the Mexican treasury, as the expenses of ne- 
gotiation were greater. But I was so urgent, I succeeded the next day. I con- 
vinced them of the necessity of putting the Emperor Napoleon and his govern- 
ment in a condition to say to the French chambers that the terms of the claims 
had been arranged." 

So, forty millions have been appropriated to pay our citizens ; but can the 
money be raised ? That is the important question. 

Now comes another consideration of no less importance. The minister of 
foreign affairs, the vigilant guardian of French interests, is naturally vexed at the 
diminution of our claims ; but the debtor is about to fail, and the creditor must 
take what he can get. Here is what Mr. Drouyn de Lhuys said about it on the 
14th of January, 1866 : 

"The first object of our expedition was the revindication of our credit and 
exaction of reparation due to our citizens. If, however, we see proper to help a 
people smuggling for a stable government, and it is our interest to aid a prince 
who sacrifices himself to such a good cause, our help should be confined to par- 
ticular limits, which the Miramar convention has prescribed. The reciprocal 
arrangements of that act have fixed the conditions under which France was to 
aid the consolidation of a friendly government. It would be superfluous to in- 
sist upon the motives that prevent Mexico from complying with those conditions. 

" All appeal to credit is useless on one part; on the other Ave cannot under- 
take to pay the expenses of the Mexican government and defend it with our 
army and pay its civil officials." 

This is a wonderful effect of the confidence placed in the prince, and the four 
hundred millions lent him by France to be engulfed in his ruinous sovereignty ! 
We must support him by our blood, pay his army, his civil list — else he perishes. 
And the minister tells you this in his despatch of the 15th of January, 1S66, 
which is very significant. He speaks of the convention of Miramar ; he says 
it was proposed by Maximilian himself, a man whose imperial probity and po- 
litical solidity was beyond suspicion, and he does not keep his word ! 

The minister adds : " Such was the object of the convention of Miramar, 
which was to regulate our rights and reciprocal duties. It would be useless 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 67 

now to ask why the Mexican government cannot comply with the precepts of 
the act, and why we are called to bear the burden of the new establishment." 

We told you the same last year, and the year before, and you grumbled. 
Now you listen because it is the minister who speaks. 

" I will not dwell upon what I said in my correspondence with the legation 
of the Emperor ; it is merely my duty to expose the actual situation. By law, in 
a bilateral contract, when one party fails to comply the other is released. 

" The Mexican government cannot furnish the resources to sustain our army 
there, and it even asks us to pay its civil list ! This is not new, as our frequent 
loans will show. 

" Now what are we to do in this government bankruptcy ? Our revenue will 
not suffice to supply the deficit. If Mexico cannot pay our troops in her ser- 
vice we cannot keep them there. Public opinion declares we have done all for 
Mexico we can do." 

[Murmurs of applause around the speaker. Mr. Favre is called to order by 
the president, and then proceeds :] 

I answer by facts, and those I quote will not be contradicted by this assembly., 
as they originated in it. 

Now I have just said that the situation laid down by the minister of foreign 
affairs is not new. The embarrassments of the Mexican government have long 
been known, ever since the time of the first loan. It was well known at that 
time that the situation was bad, and to remedy it was the object of the loans. 
When Mr. Corta spoke on the loan, he said : 

"The conviction I bring back from Mexico is, that all that is needed there is 
a regular government and time. It certainly has a fixed government now. 
Maximilian was carried in triumph from Vera Cruz to Mexico. But what the 
true sentimeut of the people was in this ovation it is hard for a superficial observer 
to determine. 

" In the eyes of the Indians, which are the majority, the emperor Maximilian 
was the man of prophecy, who came from the east, with blue eyes and golden 
hair, and the Indians hailed him as their liberator." 

Mr. Corta continues on the financial question thus : 

"At any rate the present budget, as the state council make it, is only 
$150,000,000 including the debt. So ycu see the Mexican government need 
not feel concerned about the foreign debt ; it can be paid easily." 

Now to pay that debt they had recourse to France, as their treasury was 
empty. Not only Mr. Corta acknowledges it, but the minister of state says : 

" As to the Mexican finances, has not Mr. Corta's report enlightened the 
chamber in regard to the resources of the country ?" A year after, on the 1 Lth 
of April, 1865, a great change has taken place. Instead of financial prosperity 
we findja distressing situation ; instead of a prince with a redundant budget 
we find a man asking alms to pay his army and civil list. The minister con- 
tinues : " Do not be concerned, gentlemen ; Maximilian will assure the pros- 
perity of the Mexican empire, and will furnish ample security to those who 
trust their money to his care." 

I understand what is passing in the minds of my colleagues. I will only 
compare these facts with what the minister of foreign affairs said in January, 
1866: 

" These troubles are not new, and we have tried to alleviate them by facili- 
tating loans." 

Yes, that has been done, and you told France that Mexico was in a good: 
condition, and lenders would run no risk of losing their money. A year has 
scarcely passed and you behold an empty treasury, an unpaid army, a bank- 
rupt monarch. Under such circumstances I ask the chamber if we can be sat- 
isfied with the minister's despatch of the 15th of January, 1S66 ? 

He tells Mexico plainly that the treasury of France is no longer at its dis- - 



68 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

posal, that public opinion is opposed to more loans, and thaj Maximilian must 
get along alone. Here is what he says : 

" While these different considerations oblige us to look to the end of our mil- 
itary occupation, the government of the Emperor, in its solicitude for the glori- 
ous work it begun, and in its sympathy for the emperor Maximilian, must keep 
an exact account of the financial situation of Mexico. 

"With energy and courage, with a firm and constant will, the emperor of 
Mexico will be able to overcome all obstacles. This is our firm conviction 
after an attentive and conscientious examination of the debts and resources of 
the country, and Maximilian and his government must think so too if they 
wish to be encouraged to success." 

1 have nothing to do with what passed between the minister of foreign affairs 
and the emperor Maximilian ; but I ask you if the remedy proposed by the 
French government is proper, in your opinion. The government wishes the 
return of our troops, and we wish it, but Ave do not approve of the manner of 
the withdrawal, having been so often disappointed. 

Here is what I see in a despatch of the 6th of April, 18G6 : 

" In his despatch of the 12th of February last Mr. Seward declares that the 
government of the United States has always conformed to the precepts of 
Washington in regard to the principle of non-intervention, and nothing justifies 
a departure from it in the present case of Mexico. We accept this assurance 
in full confidence, and we find a sufficient guarantee in it to justify us in with- 
drawing our army. The Emperor has decided that the French troops should 
•evacuate Mexico in three detachments : the first in November, 1866, the second 
in March, 1S67, and the third in November of the same year. You will please 
communicate this decision officially to the Secretary of State." 

If this resolution for the return of our tioops is sincere, we must applaud it. 
But we have cause to doubt its sincerity, if we consider recent publications in 
the Moniteur. 

I will now take up the last document, that mentioning the despatches from 
Vera Cruz of the 14th of May. The despatch I allude to is of the 9th of June, 
1866. Here is what I read in the preamble : "All is quiet." That means, the 
war is still going on. 

" The Mexican General Mendez continues his operations in Michoacan ; he 
occupies the line from Tacambaro to Uruapam ; but the military arrangements 
•recently made in that part of the country induce us to hope for peace soon. For 
that purpose General Bazaine has sent General Aymard and Colonel Clinchant 
north with their columns. General Douay, now in Saltillo, is preparing to in- 
vade New Leon, where Escobedo's bands are causing some trouble. 

" The emperor Maximilian is busy organizing his army and regulating the 
■service." • 

And they say our troops are coming back ! Anyone who is acquainted with 
the topography of Mexico must know that troops are not sent north to get into 
the road to Vera Cruz. Why are we told that the troops are coming home, 
when they are sent out on distant expeditions 1 That is the question I put to 
the minister. 

Now, let me tell the chamber what ought to interest us greatly : It is the fate 
of the 30,000 braves we still have in Mexico. Now, I inquire if this interest is 
consistent with the announcement of the government to recall them in three 
bodies at such distant intervals ? 

You must confess that the peaceful country is at war, since our troops are 
■always under arms. And if one-third be withdrawn, then the remainder will be 
exposed to double peril; and when two-thirds have been taken away, what will 
become of those left in the disturbed country you could not subjugate ? Moral 
influence is all-powerful in such a situation. You announce solemnly that you 
are going to retire, and you call Maximilian an insolvent prince. You say his 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 69 

treasury is empty. I am not the author of those despatches ; they come from 
the minister of state, and if I mention them, it is from duty. 

In diminishing the French forces you increase the Mexican strength ; and if 
you desire to save our soldiers, defend the honor of our flag, the withdrawal 
must be effected in a different manner, under other conditions. My fears are not 
imaginary ; I am not' the only one to entertain them. 

In February, 1866, when the Mexican question was debated in the senate, 
the marshal uttered the same opinion, and said : 

" It is our business to help a little longer those who wish to repair the ills of 
fifty years of anarchy, else France would not incur such a responsibility in his- 
tory. The discontented, the bandits, now without a leader, will reassemble under 
the flag of Juarez. Despair will seize the timid, and they will suffer all the 
torments that their enemies can inflict. This is so true that as soon as the 
cities are evacuated by our troops, the inhabitants leave them." 

This, gentlemen, is a true picture; there is no caricature about it. For our 
honor, for our interest, we must protect our army and our citizens, who will be 
exposed to the greatest dangers if we abandon the country. We must protect 
the people who have trusted to us. I said the same last year, as the debates of 
the house will show.' If you act otherwise, you will fail in the duty a great and 
civilized nation owes to itself. 

I ask the government to explain itself, if it does not believe what I have stated, 
and to order that all our soldiers be withdrawn at once, so as not to expose the 
remainder to the fury of their enemies. This is my request, and -when I make 
it of the house and government, they must know that I have taken all things 
into consideration. Those brave men in Mexico could be of greater service at 
home. Can we doubt it, when we are told that the map of Europe is soon to be 
remodelled 1 

We are the mandataries of the people — the representatives of the nation. Must 
we sleep, like the pilot when he sees the storm threaten, and let the vessel go 
to wreck 1 

Well, gentlemen, we have been sufficiently warned of danger, and must be 
aware that great resolutions will soon be required of us. We must be ready for 
every emergency, and need all our troops at home. The sons of France are 
needed on her soil, and should never have been sent away. We will welcome 
their return with enthusiasm, and I hope it will be a good lesson to us not to 
engage any more in foolish expeditions costing billions. 

The President. Mr. Jerome David now has the floor. 

[Mr. Jerome David's speech in the French chambers :] 

Gentlemen, I will declare at once that we are not quitting Mexico by th e 
order of a foreign power. To suppose it is to offer an indignity to France- 
What ! are we to be ordered by a stranger ? [Cries of " Good, good."] I much 
regret this debate, that began so moderately and ended so harshly. In defend- 
ing the government in its conduct in the Mexican expedition, I know I will not 
have the support of everybody ; but I know you will listen attentively. 

The Mexican expedition is once more subjected to severe blame; the aid we 
give to a regular government is a theme for lively criticism; the return of our 
troops has been too long delayed, is badly arranged ; promises attributed to the 
government are invoked ; we are frightened at the insinuation that the United 
States will apply the Monroe doctrine to us as soon as they get through their 
domestic war. I do not believe in such threats ; but suppose they are true, does 
that affect our rights 1 Where is the respectable nation that can be frightened 
out of its duty 1 While our troops in Mexico are struggling for a durable peace 
before they leave, is it right to discourage them, to inspire distrust, when union, 
confidence, and strength, the chief elements of success, are needed ? 

Let us look the question in the face. Did the spirit of adventure carry us 



70 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

into Mexico ? Do we seek a supremacy or an abusive protectorate over the 
Latin race ? If it is true that our foreign relations inspire us with natural sym- 
pathy for people of the same origin and religious faith, let our sympathies act 
with reason upon our diplomacy. 

The imperial government consults the interests of France in all its foreign 
expeditions, and acts accordingly. You have many proofs of it. In the late 
European contests for abuse of power, France has remained inactive. But when 
solemn conventions are disregarded, claims rejected, the property and lives of 
our citizens endangered, our government will not accept insignificant satisfac- 
tion. When right and justice are on our side we can overcome every obstacle. 
The reason why the present empire is stronger than the governments that have 
preceded it is, it understands questions that will lead to ruin, if not favorably 
solved, and the Mexican question is one of them. 

When the government is blamed for the Mexican expedition, the cavillers 
certainly forget its origin. You must remember that events are controlled by 
no policy ; Providence directs them ; governments can only profit by them if 
they are properly considered. See the recent example of the United States, 
and you will learn that the fame of nations depends upon their energy and 
■courage. If the prophecies of certain counsellors were attended to, every glo- 
rious undertaking would fail. 

Those who oppose the Mexican expedition, and wish to make use of it 
against the government, exclaim : Let the past alone ; let us attend to the pres- 
ent ! Why should we not consider the origin of the expedition to see if it wa3 
right, necessary, and for the interest of France 1 

The old Spimish colonies have opposed free commerce for forty years. During 
that time foreigners have been imposed upon, persecuted, and often murdered 
without cause in those countries. Yet we are adopting a temporizing policy, 
still employed in the South American republics and those of Central America ; 
a policy of diplomacy, that did no good except through consular agents, who 
often prevented outrages, by arbitrary action, because they knew the people 
they had to deal with. We preferred this lame policy to rigorous measures, 
because we did not wish to engage alone in a contest in which other European 
governments were equally interested. But when Spain took the first step to 
force a satisfaction for wrongs and injuries, and was joined by England, in the 
treaty of the 31st of October, was it not right and proper for us to accede to 
the expedition 1 After these fixed facts, can any one say the expedition was 
undertaken hastily or rashly ? 

Observe the tactics of the opposition ; see those men remove the real base 
of the structure and substitute a false foundation, and sustain it with so much 
art it seems almost real. Thus they say the French government initiated the 
Mexican expedition, and it must bear the responsibility. I say we went to 
Mexico with Spain and England, and they share the responsibility of the ex- 
pedition with us. Our allies withdrew, and we were left alone. 

Now we are asfced : Why did you not withdraw with the allies ? If you 
expected to succeed, why did you not resort to less expensive measures than a 
campaign into the interior of Mexico ? I answer thus : 

We did well not to treat Avith Juarez; we did not take up arms to trifle with 
a government that would have deceived us when we got out of the country. 
When a strong power draws the sword, and spreads its banner for combat, 
when it sends its forces beyond the sea, it is done after all pacific means are 
exhausted ; and it is ridiculous, after such a display, to condescend to ratify 
conditions that had already been rejected. 

If our allies chose to go many thousand leagues to believe the fallacious 
promises of a cunning mestizo, which they would not listen to before they left 
Europe, it is none of our business. France has acted differently and rightly, 
I will say, even if I am alone in the belief, in persevering in the Mexican ex- 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 71 

pedition. It has cost us dearly, I must confess, and the brave blood of our 
soldiers and sailors has been shed in distant countries. All the burdens of an 
expedition into a wild and unhealthy country have fallen upon us. Yet I say, 
even at that cost, we did right not to back out like Spain and England. His- 
tory will applaud us for not giving up Mexico like our allies. 

I tell you if we had not persevered in the Mexican expedition after our allies 
left us, European influence would have been so greatly despised in all America 
that the consequence would have been long and disastrous wars. Now we have 
gained a reputation in the New World. Since 1S60 difficulties have arisen be- 
tween Spain and her old colonies, and the President of Ecuador, one of the 
Colombian republics, has officially solicited the protection of France. 

Look at our conduct in Mexico in its true light, without reducing it to the 
vulgar proportions of that school of heroes who talk of glory but never risk its 
dangers, who boast of national fame and do not know that it is won by hard 
blows. Think of the greatness of your country, and try to make its name re- 
spected, and its requests heard in every part of the globe. 

When the Suez canal is finished, a work due to the courage of modern genius, 
Asia, the ancient cradle of human sciences, will be transformed, and the world 
will look with wonder upon the great work begun and finished by French efforts. 
And, next, all eyes will be turned towards Mexico and Central America, where 
oui^labors will show the results of combined labor and science toward the util- 
ization of the works of nature. When the two oceans shall be connected, our 
influence in Mexico, due to our perseverance, will place us foremost as the 
greatest civilizer of wild nations, and the opener of new commercial routes to 
the Indian ocean, Australia, and China. 

After the hardest part of the work was over, when we had penetrated into 
the interior of Mexico, we could not endanger our prospects by too much haste. 
O, you may be sure history would have been severe on those who, regardless 
of advantages obtained by great sacrifices, advised an evacuation of Mexico, 
and on a government weak enough to yield to the first orders to quit. 

Acknowledge some merit and grandeur in the thought of enforcing respect 
for international rights in a magnificent country, admirably located, without 
which it would be lost to agriculture, manufactures, and commerce, and to a 
proper distribution of the productive forces of the globe. Just as the Roman 
roads in Africa showed that the royal nation had spread the floods of its genius 
and the enchantment of its power to the confines of the habitable globe, so will 
we be proud to leave, as vestiges of our occupation, railways, post roads, and 
the many signs of a civilized people, in a country so long devoid of them. We, 
a great nation, too, must be proud to force the pen of history to record that, in 
spite of opposition and obstacles, we alone, for the general interest of the world 
and the principle of progress, left the impress of our eagles upon the soil of the 
Montezumas. 

I do not place these general considerations in the first rank ; they are ranged 
with the decisive causes that brought us to Mexico in company with Spain and 
England. 

I now come to the second question : why we did not have recourse to naval 
means. 

Say a fleet is sent to demand satisfaction ; a blockade of the ports is declared ; 
the coast towns are bombarded, and what is the result 1 In that country com- 
merce is in the hands of French, English, Spanish, and Americans ; to bombard 
the coast towns, then, or blockade the ports, would be injuring the very people we 
desire to protect and defend. Here is an illustration : Chili is warring with 
Spain ; the foreign residents become excited ; consuls try to prevent reprisals by 
the Spanish squadron ; when these reprisals occur and Valparaiso is bombarded, 
a cry of anguish resounds throughout all Europe. Blockading and reprisals 
never did any good. Did we not try both in 1838, when the fort of San Juan 



72 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

de Ulloa was captured, and the city of Vera Oruz invested? We tried the same 
plan, in concert with England, for fifteen years in the Plate, against Rosas, the 
dictator of Buenos Ayres, without bringing him to terms. 

1 say the government did not begin the Mexican expedition, but acquiesced in 
it under very favorable circumstances. I maintain that the withdrawal of the 
allies did not make it right for us to recede. I have shown the inefficacy of 
naval means. It remains for me to examine our aim in Mexico, the results 
obtained; and I must show in what condition our withdrawal would leave the 
regions of the New World, where our eagles have so triumphantly soared. 
I am astonished to hear some ask, "What did you go to Mexico for, and 
what have you got?" 

Nations, as well as individuals, desire a moral satisfaction in a duel, and not 
a pecuniary recompense. We risk our lives because it is necessary, without 
considering the danger, to avoid dishonor and contempt. Now we have already 
got in Mexico, in a most complete manner, what our expedition required, namely, 
a satisfaction by armed force. We have overcome every obstacle, conquered 
every resistance. A few thousand French soldiers have marched as conquerors 
in every direction, over a territory three times as large as France. They have 
opened ways through roadless regions, by their ingenuity, patience, and perse- 
verance. Except under rare circumstances, where exemplary punishment was 
obligatory, they have been distinguished for their discipline and their respect 
for property and persons. They have completely changed the condition of 
Mexico. Brigandage is nearly destroyed. 

When certain orators discuss the Mexican question, they talk as if it were a 
European country. Nothing is more absurd. The social condition of Mexico 
resembles that of no European nation. Thus, for instance, in Mexico crime 
was a profession ; a man was murdered for a few dollars. Entire villages lived 
on theft and rapine. Robbers hired themselves to the leader of a faction that 
would give the most money, and thus robbery was ennobled into patriotism. 

Before our arrival, a week did not pass that the diligence from Vera Cruz to 
Mexico was not stopped and its passengers plundered. This was so common 
that when it did not occur it excited astonishment and was the talk for some 
time. These are facts ; so we must not compare Mexico to a European country. 
But. I have not mentioned another purpose of our expedition. We have not 
been satisfied with military glory ; we are not content to overtake the malefactors 
in their strongholds and deprive them of a power that served to violate the laws 
of nations ; we are attempting to restore confidence and revive the energy of 
the large number of Creoles who long for a firm government and the peace 
necessary to develop the boundless resources of the country. 

The native population is enlightened ; it is composed of scientific and literary 
men — of lawyers of merit and industrious mechanics, who submit to every in- 
convenience and imposition, pay enormous taxes to any brigand calling him- 
self the government, and do anything for the sake of peace, which they never 
have. 

The majority of the Creoles despaired of public order as long as the ruling 
power was in the hands of a Mexican. They well understood that in a country 
where thirty revolutions and over two hundred insurrections had taken place in 
less than half a century, no native individual could rule with any security ; so 
they turned their eyes to Europe for a prince to govern them properly. 

By his genealogy the Archduke Maximilian was connected to the ancient pos- 
sessors of Mexico ; he had given proof of a liberal spirit ; and it was hoped he 
could restore order without suppressing liberty. The French government has 
been greatly blamed for helping the Archduke Maximilian to the throne of 
Mexico ; and it was said French blood was shed only for the benefit of an 
archduke of Austria. Such talk does not deserve attention. What was plainer 
than our attitude during the conference with Maximilian ? What more natural 






CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 73 

than his advent ? How then can the government he reproached with having 
hrought him into power 1 We encouraged him because we thought he was the 
person to restore order to Mexico ; but we did not join our fortunes to his, ex- 
cept as far as our interests are concerned. We are still masters of our move- 
ments ; and when we perceive that the expenses of the expedition are likely to 
become greater than the profits, we wisely determine to withdraw our troops. 
Where is the blame now % 

The emperor Maximilian is now in a condition to retain the power with 
which he has been invested by the Mexicans, and he must profit by it. True, 
he will have trouble yet from the chronic anarchy of the country, but he has 
an army to put that down ; and European contingents are enlisting to serve him; 
many Creoles are protecting his throne ; a good government will insure him the 
support of the entire Indian population, the millions of which must be allowed 
to participate in public affairs. 

This Indian population, hitherto excluded from civil rights, must be allowed 
the right of suffrage if peace is to be kept in the country. If there had been 
any patriotism in the country our task would have been easy ; but the oligarchy, 
clerical or liberal, has always oppressed these natives and made use of them 
without rewarding them for their services. 

This is the eloquence of facts, showing that we have destroyed the odious 
tyranny in Mexico without injury to patriotism. 

Soldiers of France! you are liberators and not oppressors ; no compunctions 
will dim your glory. Keep your good conscience, for you have right and jus- 
tice on your side. 

Should we prolong our stay in Mexico till everything has become quiet, till 
pacification is complete, and all the wheels of government are running smoothly ? 
I would say yes, if we could say precisely when that would be ; but that 
era depends upon the ruler and his agents, change of public spirit, and on 
events in other parts of America. 

As it is, I say no ; because all these elements of success are uncertain, and 
it would be wrong in France not to trust the strength of the power established. 
As we were to quit Mexico, a time was to be fixed. You have been told the 
terms. But if the French troops are withdrawn, what will become of French 
subjects in Mexico and the native population favoring intervention ? They 
will be exposed to many dangers, and thousands will reproach you with their 
ruin. 

It is too hasty to suppose the immediate fall of the emperor Maximilian. 
Suppose we had abandoned Mexico with Spain and England, would the Mexi- 
cans who had solicited intervention be any better off than they are now 1 I 
think not. Mexican affairs were in great confusion, and we did our best to 
regulate them ; if we have not succeeded perfectly, history, at least, will say we 
did much good. 

In eighteen months we will be out of Mexico. Within that period all French 
subjects and distrustful natives will have time to quit the country. They will 
suffer damages, but they will be less than they would have been if ^we had re- 
tired with Spain and England. 

At any rate, besides honorable satisfaction for insults, we have done for Mex- 
ico all that we could consistently with the interests of France. -. 

Now, one of two things must happen : either Maximilian will sustain himself, 
and it will be said we did good to Mexico ; or he will yield to circumstances, 
•and France cannot be blamed for it. 

If Maximilian cannot succeed in conciliating opposing parties he will have 
to give up and let the Mexicans direct their own affairs. If the government 
succeeds after France has left, her part will be enviable ; she will have done a 
great act of civilization. 

In case Maximilian falls, the war expenses and French interests will depend 



74 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

upon the governments that succeed hirn in Mexico, and I do not see what dif- 
ference it will make to us. We have given the people of Mexico some notions 
of order, common law, general security, and civil equality, and it is to he hoped 
they will be remembered and heeded. We have sown good seed in Mexico ; 
Providence will attend to its germination, fruit will follow, and we will be proud 
of the part we have taken in its regeneration. The government has been 
blamed for the Mexican loan, here in the house, and out of it. 

The loan was facilitated by the government, else how could we have an army 
in Mexico 1 We did assist in the establishment of a monarchy in Mexico, but 
it was solicited by Mexicans. We lent our banner and our soldiers to the 
cause ; the most we could do, for the loan was insignificant compared to it. 

The loans of 1864 and 1865 were openly proposed and knowingly accepted ; 
there was no deception or treachery about them. The Mexican question had 
been publicly discussed, and was thoroughly known in its good and bad aspects. 
Since 1S61 every investigation and research into the resources and condition of 
the country have been instituted, and the results made known. The govern- 
ment thought Mexico could be resuscitated, and it thinks so vet. The sub- 
scribers to the loan acted' knowingly ; they were not deceived. Is not the 
interest of their investment promptly paid an evidence of the security of the 
principal ? 

If it is true that public opinion in France desires the return of our troops, 
and if this return is to our interest, we must have guarantees against foreign 
intervention. 

I do not think the United States will interfere in Mexican affairs. Why 
should they ? what would be gained by it ? . The population of Mexico is com- 
posed of Creoles, mestizos, and Indians ; and there is no analogy or relation be- 
tween the Spanish American and Anglo-American races. They differ in mauners, 
constitution, language, religion — in every way ; all is opposition and contrast. 
The question of race, then, is absurd. 

We hear of the Monroe doctrine. How long since a doctrine addressed to a 
nation in a public message became a law to foreign nations ? We can understand 
that the United States dreaded a neighboring monarchy ; but because they have 
a republic, it is not just to oppose all other kinds of governments in the New 
World. A monarchy in Mexico can do no harm to the United States. It would 
require many years to enable Mexico to raise an army like that of the United 
States in the late war between the federals and confederates. 

With the negative right of the United States we will compare the positive 
right of every sovereign nation to wage war and accept the results. By virtue 
of this right we have aided Maximilian. Now, if he is deposed by Mexican 
will, France has nothing to say ; she accepts the doctrine of non-intervention. 
The United States can do as they please, but they have no right to meddle 
with Mexico. Even if they had a right, what would they gain by it ? If it is for 
territorial extension, it seems to us the United States has already more territory 
than they can properly reconstruct into a solid Union. Would not the pros- 
perity of Mexico be more profitable to the commerce of the United States than 
its former anarchy ? 

Different Presidents of the'United States have acknowledged as much in their 
messages, by deploring the anarchy that has desolated Mexico. In 185S Pre- 
sident Buchanan said : " The succeeding governments of Mexico have not been 
able to give protection to Mexican citizens or to foreign residents against the 
violence of outlaws." And in 1859 : " Mexico cannot recover its position 
among nations nor prosper internally without assistance." 

After these declarations the United States would do wrong to aid the lawless 
party we are trying to put down in Mexico. 

When I consult the good sense and wisdom of the statesmen of the Union, I 
say such a conflict is impossible and will not take place. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 75 

The United States have had a lesson in their late civil war that will warn 
them not to attempt to rule the whole western continent, though the attempt 
would be repugnant to justice and reason. 

Scientific discoveries have joined the two continents ; communications are 
more frequent, and the people of the west must mix with us and share our civili- 
zation. 

The United States know better than to permit themselves to be governed by the 
quarrelsome instincts of a turbulent minority; they know better than to join in 
evil causes that do not concern them. They had better join in the effort of 
Europe to restore order and civilization to the many nations and races of people 
between the Rio Grande and Cape Horn. 

We do not want to persuade the United States that their providential mission, 
is the same as ours; we do not even go so far as to request them to recognize 
the order of things established in Mexico. But they must understand that we 
have not borne our colors upon Mexican soil and drenched it with our blood to 
permit a third party to interfere as soon as we have left and overturn an edifice 
founded by the blood of our soldiers, under pretext of difference of opinion, and 
in contempt of the principles of intervention. 

We have a sympathy for the United States, because we remember that our 
fathers aided them in their first struggle for independence ; and we would deplore a 
rupture with a friendly nation, whose freedom gleams in history like the radiant 
aurora of the French revolution. These pleasant memories, however, must not 
prevent us from reminding the Americans that France expects a reciprocal 
courtesy from them under all circumstances. 

No, the United States will not intervene in Mexican affairs ; their statesmen 
may not immediately depart from the singular forms of their official communica- 
tion and their boastful harangues, so flattering to the American temperament, 
which is pleased with noisy and bold declarations. Popularity is acquired by 
all sorts of ways in America. The best way for us to answer the rude diplo- 
matic style of the United States is to reply in the moderate, firm, and polished 
language so suited to a nation like France. 

The future of Mexico will then be left to Mexicans, and our generous attempt 
to help them will cause no warfare. We carried the genius of civilization to 
Mexico ; we hope it will come out victorious from its many trials. We look 
upon that future with confidence, and we are convinced that in aiding the policy 
of our government we have done an act truly good and useful for the influence 
and fame of our country. 

In sustaining the policy of the government, we show ourselves the represen- 
tatives of that generous and noble France that prefers determination, and even 
boldness, to the reproach of indecision and timidity. We will scorn appeals 
made to selfish and vulgar sentiments, and support a policy that looks only to the 
grandeur and dignity of the country. [Immense applause.] 



No. 23. 
Mr. Seward to Senor Romero. 

Department op State, 

Washington, July 16, 1866. 

Sir : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of 
the 8th instant, containing the series of documents on the Mexican question 
presented in June last by the French government to its legislative body, a copy 
of which had been before received from Europe. 



76 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

Be pleased to accept my thanks for your courtesy. 

1 avail myself of this occasion to renew to you the assurances of my most 
distinguished consideration. 



Senor Don Matias Romero, fyc, fyc., tyc. 



WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 



No. 24. 

Sefior Romero to Mr. Seward. 

[Translation.] 

Mexican Legation in the United States of America, 

Washington, July 10, 1866. 

Mr. Secretary : I have the honor to transmit to you for the information of 
the government of the United States, copies of a circular which I have had 
printed in New York, containing fragments of various letters taken from the 
French and Belgian soldiers who occupied Monterey and Saltillo in April last. 
The originals were sent to me by General Escobedo, the 27th of May, with his 
communication from Linares, published in the beginning of the circular, and 
another letter from Manuel Gomez, General Escobedo's secretary, dated Rio 
Blanco, April 26, giving man}'- important particulars. 

Though the intercepted letters give very inexact accounts of the situation, 
enough is said in them to show that the French soldiers are weary of the unjust 
war their government is forcing them to make on Mexico, without aim or object. 
They do not believe the so-called empire of the usurper Maximilian can be 
established without a considerable re-enforcement of French forces ;they ridicule 
the official declarations of the French government that peace is restored in Mex- 
ico, and many of them contend that the intervention is unjust. 

The annexed circular contains only the most noted passages of the principal 
of those letters. 

I am pleased to have the opportunity of renewing to you, Mr. Secretary, the 
assurance of my most distinguished consideration. 

M. ROMERO. 

Hon. William H. Seward, fyc, fyc, Sfc. 



No. 8. 
French intervention in Mexico, as seen by their own partisans. 

Linares, May 27, 1866. 

Very Dear Sir : Douay's first expedition is at an end, with no damage but 
extensive robberies, called fines, in the places he occupied. 

Houses were robbed in Rio Blanco, Galeana, and Iturbide, and a few innocent 
people shot by the bandit Dupin. Jeaningros retreated in double-quick, taking 
the shortest cuts, as soon as he heard of my approach. Yet we harassed him 
considerably, and many of his men deserted, for seventeen French and Belgians 
joined one of my officers. 

The invading army is entirely demoralized, while I am pleased to see con- 
fidence and enthusiasm increase on our side. I have received some arms I bar- 
gained for, and hope soon to receive the rest, with plenty of ammunition ; so 
that, with these and what you can send me, this army corps will soon be in a 
condition to attack the strongholds of the interior, with prospects of success. 

My hard marches and occasional indisposition have hitherto prevented me 
from sending the important original letters which I now enclose. I think it 
would be well to print the most interesting of them, and put them in reach of 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 77 

the French people, who unanimously disapprove the interventiou we are now 
opposing. 

All the news we have from the interior is good. Public spirit is rising every- 
where, and affection for the new empire is daily decreasing. 

The clergy are disheartened because they do not find Maximilian to be the 
man they expected. The landed proprietors and merchants can do nothing, 
not even keep what they have ; and as they have no surety for peace, they 
want a change. 

Finally, the traitors are disgusted with the frequent rebuffs of the French, 
and everything tends to exasperate the people against intervention and the 
abortive empire of Maximilian. 

We have great hopes of success, and if we only had money it would soon 
be certain, and our triumph would be complete. 

I am pleased to sign myself your friend and servant, 

M. ESCOBEDO. 

Citizen Matias Romero, 

in Washington. 



Eioblanco, April 26, 1866. 
Very Dear Sir: General Escobedo sent you some original letters of chiefs, 
officers and soldiers of the invading army, intercepted by our forces. Thinking 
it would be well to let them be seen by the French people, who acknowledge 
the justice of our cause, and censure Napoleon's obstinacy in meddling with our 
affairs, I have thought proper to make some observations, which may have some 
importance, as coming from witnesses of the facts. 

The brave men who are defending their country suffer so many privations, 
that if their cause were not so holy I am sure many of them would give up in 
despair. Our enemies have all the ports and many of the chief towns, so our 
means are reduced to the smallest scale. Our soldiers have scarcely the neces- 
saries of life, yet they always meet the enemy bravely, badly armed as they 
are, and worse clad, and suffering from exposure and hunger. The necessary 
continued action does not permit time to drill them and give them the proper 
discipline, whereas the enemy have all they want and are punctually paid ; so 
it is not strange that masses of men superior to the French in numbers (though 
not as great as they represent it) give up or avoid a fight. 

I am sure General Escobedo's army corps is better supplied, as we have only 
white cotton pants and sandals for our men. They have just made a campaign 
that nobody would credit who had not seen it. On the 23d, near Soledacl, we 
learned that Dupin was coming with four hundred cavalry and two hundred 
infantry, with two pieces of artillery ; and though we were waiting for aid from 
Matehuala, General Espinosa determined to attack them with four hundred 
infantry and five hundred cavalry, in conjunction with General Aureliano Rivera. 
On the 23d at five in the morning, after eating pinole without bread or cakes, 
our infantry marched out, and suffered for water till three o'clock, when they 
came in sight of the enemy. Thi3 was a company of considerable reputation, 
whose chief was very haughty. He did not wait for us, but began the attack 
with such boldness and confidence that his cavalry nearly surrounded our liae ; 
but, not frightened, we stood our ground for the first charge, and then rushed on 
them, repulsing them with considerable loss. I firmly believe that if night had 
not supervened, their rout would have been complete ; but it would have been very 
imprudent in us to continue the fight in the dark. General Espinosa, fearing 
the enemy might be re-enforced, ordered a retreat, which was effected in good 
order ; and our fatigued men had to march back to Soledad, where they got the 
first meal they had eaten that day. 

To march twenty-five leagues without eating for forty hours, fighting with 



78 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

an enemy well armed, equipped and fed, is no ordinary labor, and could not be 
imitated by t lie* haughty French. Yesterday tbe infantry returned to this 
place, twelve leagues, because there was no resting place at Soledad. 

Tbe French letters, as you may imagine, are full of exaggerations and foolish 
boasts ; but they all agree in the idea that there is no peace in Mexico, and in- 
tervention cannot bold out without more French troops ; and some confess that 
intervention is unjust and inexcusable. They are generally dissatisfied; they 
think there is no glory, and certainly no profit, in the campaign; and they are 
beginning to despair of the empire, because it is neither honest nor just. 

The rout of three French companies on tbe first at Santa Isabel, nearParras, 
by a cavalry brigade of this army corps under General Trevino, with some Coa- 
huila forces, has caused many absurd stories, which you will see in the letters. 
"Without mentioning the 700 traitors that fought with the 200 French, they want 
to make the world believe that they alone fought against four or five thousand 
of our mini. Their official report is very far from true; but you will find tbe 
whole truth in General Escobedo's report. When they take one of us prisoner, 
which is not very often, they spare bis life and boast of it, while we have more 
than seventy French prisoners and spare them; yet we are called bandits and 
assassins. Here where I am now writing I am looking on the ruins of four of 
the best bouses in the town, burned by the French last December because they 
belonged to persons in our army. Tbe town was sacked, and few houses are 
left in which they did not destroy the furniture. Thus they make Avar on us, 
and with tbe odious decree of the third of October they cry to Heaven, calling 
us barbarians incapable of self-government, because we take food and horses 
where we can find them and impose loans from necessity and stick to a cause as 
sacred as our own existence. 

The citizens of Mexico had better perish than give up the independence of 
their country, 

We have no news from the interior ; but the papers in the capital announce 
that each day brings trouble to the empire ; rebellions spring up on every side, 
and tbe clergy no longer offer the support they promised. Now that there is 
so much trouble in the States of Tamaulipas, Coahuila, Nuevo Leon, and San 
Luis, the centre will have time to rest, and our brothers can recover their accus- 
tomed strength. 

We are united and compact. The presidential question passed without dis- 
turbance and we continue to acknowledge tbe government of Senor Juarez. It 
is the same in the interior ; and the liberal newspapers, even in towns held by 
the empire, defend our cause. We need arms, particularly sabres for cavalry. 
It is impossible for us, armed only with a rifle or musket, to contend with the 
French, Austrian, or traitor cavalry, all well armed, mounted, and equipped ; 
yet we do not shun battle, and have often whipped them in fair fight. If you 
can send some of these articles to this army corps it will give a new impulse to 
the national cause. 

I hope you will consider this letter as the expression of a Mexican who loves 

his country, and wishes, when.it is spoken of in Europe, that the truth may be 

known, so that good men may not be deceived by persons like Forey, who 

think they know a-.- country they have seen in arms and examined from camps. 

I remain, Mr. Romero, your very attentive and humble servant, 

MANUEL GOMEZ. 

Minister Don Matias Romero. 



Mr. Malglaive, a French officer, writes to a friend, whom he addresses as 
"My dear Jules," a letter, dated Monterey, 13th of March last, containing these 
passages : 



CONDITION OF AFFAIES IN MEXICO. 79 

""We are running like crazy people after an enemy that can't be caught. I 
don't think they have the facts in France ; I fear not ; they would change pub- 
lic opinion. 

" If there is any good sense in the Mississippi country, there is something bad 
there, too. The capture of Bagdad by their regiments frightened them, and 
now they are as gentle as lambs. Yet it was a good time for war. The indi- 
rect encouragement they give to the border bands only prolongs an absurd con- 
test that will ruin the country and be fatal to us. The situation is the same ; 
we do not advance towards peace. 

" If the Emperor will not withdraw his forces till the present empire is firmly 
established, he will have to keep them here for twenty or thirty years !" 

The same officer, in another letter from Monterey, of the 23d of the same 
month, says : 

" The merchants of Tampico have lost 500,000 dollars through the second 
commander, who could not protect a convoy he persuaded the traders to accept 
and organize. The people are becoming discouraged, even the best disposed, 
because, after persuading them to defend themselves, we desert them and leave 
them at the mercy of bands that assemble to crush them. It is said Maximilian 
declared he was beloved by his people, and had no need of assistance. I think 
he is mistaken ; but maybe he is wiser than many who think him a fool, and 
the number is large. He says : ' Peace is firm, and the government founded 
upon the wishes of the people is strengthening.' A man must be very impudent 
to tell such lies to a nation as is done every month through the Moniteur to 
France. We did wrong to come here ; we should have declared our wishes ; but 
the wine is drawn and we must drink it; we are compelled to accept the situation. 

" Except Vera Cruz, which communicates with the interior, all the other ports 
are blockaded by rebels, and the revenues are lessened so much. If you have 
money to invest do not put it in Mexican loans, public or pfivate. 

" If you have friends who wish to emigrate, dissuade them from these shores, 
falsely paid to be covered with golden sands." 

Another French officer, who does not sign his name, but writes on paper 
stamped A. R., from Monterey, the 17th of March, speaking of Commander 
Briant's check at Parras, says : 

" Seven officers were killed, and one prisoner with twenty men. Thanks to 
Trevino they have not been shot ; and yet, from the way we behave towards 
them, they ought to have been. 

" If our prisoners continue to be treated as they have been for some time back, 
it will give us a good lesson of clemency. But we dread it almost as much as 
the execution of our comrades. 

" This is a sad war, a distressed country. Maximilian's arrival has made 
intervention impossible, and his policy is detested everywhere, by all parties." 

On the 23d he said : 

" Supporting a stupid cause, not to the glory of the country nor for the peace 
of the homestead, without the inspiration of the sacred fire of a noble cause, I 
see the years roll on. I will not write much ; but let me tell you, both the 
emperor and we are disappointed. Intervention will fail ; there is no longer 
any confidence ; the empire has no faithful partisans; the clerical party is hostile, 
and the liberal party is making open war upon it, or betrays it. In a few years 
Maximilian the adventurer will return to Miramar to enjoy the luxury of his 
gains in Mexico. It is French money he will be spending, for the French 
treasury pays all expenses here, civil as well as military, Belgians and Austrians. 

" Poor France ! How they rob you of your treasure and spill your blood ! 
Maximilian only reigns where his armies are stationed ; there are some cities 
that have changed governors three or four times in one year." 

Mr G. Colne, a French officer, writes from Monterey, the 24th, to a certain 
Mr. Bernard: 



80 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

" Affairs could not be iu a worse condition than they are at present ; all is 
anarchy ; everything totters and tumbles on all sides. Many of our pretended 
friends are false, and of late fortune has gone against us. We take no prisoners 
now, and the wounded are despatched; it is a war of savages, unworthy of 
Europeans. The Belgians with us are dissatisfied, and want to return by the 
first of September. Such is the aspect of military affairs, not to mention Ameri- 
cans and niggers who often join the rebel bands, to the number of two or three 
thousand, and sometimes more. Such is our condition after four years shooting 
and murdering in every direction. That will show the affection the natives have 
for us. 

" As to civil affairs, there are no civilians but those who have all to gain and 
nothing to lose by accepting service under the tottering empire. The treasury 
is empty ; there is not a city that can pay its own expenses ; and yet the 
custom-houses charge high rates for everything, making living very expensive. 

"In conclusion, the general opinion is, among French as well as foreigners 
of all nations, that we aje in a desperate situation, which is growing worse every 
day ; and after suffering incredibly and spending millions we will have nothing 
to show for it." 

Another officer, whose signature seems to be Duley, sends this short missive 
to his mother : 

"Monterey, March 25, 1866. 

"Dear Mother: I have returned to Monterey after an expedition of one 
month into the country. Affairs are no better. Three companies of our regiment 
were entirely destroyed in a fight with the liberals, and yet the French govern- 
ment persists in declaring the country at peace. I am in good health, and wish 
you the same." 

• 

" Mexico, April 23, 1866. 
"To General Douay, 

" Commander of the First Division, Saltillo : 
(After a long talk about wine and brandy intended for the general's table, the 
letter continues thus :) 

" Affairs are becoming more and more pleasant in Mexico. I have charge of 
the Belgians and Austrians, the greatest spendthrifts in the world. There is 
something in the public horizon, and I think it will lead to Maximiliau's de- 
parture. If we retire the German power is lost. Such is the reward of four 
years of war and labor. I have nothing more to say ; but if I could have an 
interview with you I could tell something that would astonish you. 

"I repeat the assurance, dear general, of my most distinguished consideration. 

" TISSEROT, 
" Intendant for two months and fourteen days." 






"Corps of Mexico, Cabinet of the Marshal-in-Chief, 

" Mexico, April 22, 1866. 
" To Commander Seigland, 

" Aide-de-camp of General Douay : 

" You tell me that the general was displeased because his excellency did not 
let the base calumnies against him go unnoticed. It is certain that the general's 
reputation would not have suffered more by it in the eyes of the Emperor than 
in the opinion of the marshal. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO, 81 

" It would be hard to discover the origin of the information, and the marshal 
says it would be giving too much importance to the report to investigate its 
source. We heard it through the chief of police, who is now not to be found, 
but who thought it well to tell us of it before communicating it to the Empe- 
ror's cabinet. That is what I had to communicate. Now I must tell you con- 
fidentially something to be known only entre nous: I don't admire the young 
people you have around you. Tbey are all agreeable, even those without epau- 
lettes, and I should not dislike them ; but they are too young, and youth cannot 
have sense. They think their general must coincide with them in opinion, and 
they write to France stories that are perfectly miraculous. I know General 
Douay's upright and loyal character too well to attribute to him the nonsense 
that is circulated in the French capital, and which comes back to me in the 
strangest manner possible. 

<<L. DE NOUE." 



The undersigned, secretary of the Mexican legation in Washington, certifies 
that the two preceding letters in Spanish, one signed by M. Escobedo and the 
other by Manuel Gomez, are true copies of the originals, subscribed by General 
Don Mariano Escobedo, governor of the State of New Leon and general-in-chief 
of the northern army corps, and by the licentiate, Don Manuel Gomez, civil and 
military secretary of the same. I also certify that the foregoing extracts of 
French letters are taken from an intercepted correspondence received at this 
legation. 

IGNACIO MARISCAL. 

Washington, June 27, 1866. 



No. 25. 

Mr. Seward to Senor Romero. 

Department of State, 

Washington, July 23, 1866. 
Sir : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of 
the 10th instant, containing copies of a circular which you had lately printed, 
giving extracts from letters written by French and Belgian soldiers at Monterey 
and Saltillo ; for the information contained in which be pleased to accept my 
thanks. 

I embrace this opportunity to renew to you the assurances of my most dis- 
tinguished consideration. 



WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 



Senor Don M. Romero, Sfc, Sfc, Sfc. 



No. 26. 

Senor Romero to Mr. Seward. 
[Translation.] 

Mexican Legation in the United States of America, 

Washington, July 21, 1866. 
Mr. Secretary : I have the honor to send you, for the information of the 
government of the United States, a copy of a communication of the 15th of June 
last, addressed to me from Amatlan by General Don Alejandro Garcia, second 
6 mex 



82 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

in command on the eastern line of the Mexican republic, in reply to my circular 
of the 26th of April touching the evacuation of Mexico by the French army, 
which I Bent to him, and copies of which I enclosed to you with my letter of 
the 9th of May following. 

I accept the opportunity to renew to you, Mr. Secretary, the assurances of 
my most distinguished consideration. 

M. ROMERO. 

lion. William H. Seward, Sfc., S/c., tyc. 



MEXICAN REPUBLIC, HEADQUARTERS OF THE EASTERN LINE — SECOND GENERAL 

IN CHIEF. 

Amatlan, June 15, 1866. 

Citizen Minister : I report to-day to the citizen minister of foreign rela- 
tions of the republic as follows : 

" I recently received a printed correspondence (No. 7) from the Mexican 
legation in the United States of America, dated Washington, 26th of April last, 
in which our minister plenipotentiary, citizen Matias Romero, sends a trans- 
lated copy of the principal documents sent by the President of the United States 
to the 39th Congress, at the request of the House of Representatives, in relation 
to the Mexican question. 

" As I do not doubt the authenticity of the correspondence, considering its 
source, nor the correctness of the translation of the documents quoted, as they 
are certified by the secretary of the Mexican legation, citizen Iguacio Mariscal, 
I beg leave to call the attention of the supreme government to the contradiction 
between some declarations of those documents and certain facts transpiring in 
this part of the republic, under my command, so that you may communicate 
them to the President of the republic, to be acted on as he may think best. 

" In note No. 17, addressed by Mr. Seward to Marquis Montholon on the 12th 
of February last, analyzing Mr. Drouyn de Lhuys's of the 9th of January, 
among other things the following words of the French minister are quoted : 

" ' On the other hand, we admit as well as they [the United States] the prin- 
ciple of non-intervention. From this moment we return to our principle of non- 
intervention, and we accept it as a rule of conduct.' 

" This was said by the French minister to the American minister on the 9th 
of January. Now, 1 take the liberty of pointing out to you the contradiction 
that is working here on this line between facts and the official promise, so that 
the government of the republic may not fail to know it, on account of its great 
distance from these regions. 

" The so-called imperial government sent an armed expedition here in March 
last to conquer the coast towns that have continued to obey the republican gov- 
ernment. 

" The expedition of infantry and cavalry would never have succeeded in getting 
as it did but for the aid of the French war steamers Tempete, Diligente, Pique, 
and Tactique, and one other I have forgotten. 

" These five steamers, with French flags and four hundred men, infantry and 
marines, came up to Tlacotalpam on the 24th of March, while the imperial 
troop3 went round by Omealca, forcing me to evacuate that place, the seat of 
government and headquarters of the eastern line, with the few loyal forces that 
garrisoned it. 

" Soon afterwards I collected all the loyal Mexican troops in the State, and 
laid siege to Tlacotalpam to recover it from the Mexican traitors who held it, 
aided by the five French vessels, that continued to cannonade us so vigorously 
we could not retake it. 

" I must here add that on the attack of the 6th, when our soldiers had already 



CONDITION OP AFFAIRS IN MEXICO- 83 

penetrated some of the streets, and were threatening Zaragoza square, into which 
we had forced the enemy, the French vessels, knowing we had no artillery, 
began to bombard the town, and did much damage to the houses and harmless 
inhabitants. 

" Besides these acts, which are daily repeated, there are others not less fla- 
grant in Vera Cruz, where the French packet arrived on the 10th instant with 
five hundred soldiers for the army of the so-called empire, that landed in the 
city and immediately set out for Mexico. 

" From this, citizen minister, you will learn that the French are not practicing 
intervention in this country, and you will please so inform the President of the 
republic that he may act in the case as he thinks proper." 

All of which I transcribe for your information and proper action. 

ALEJANDRO GARCIA. 

Citizen Matias Romero, 

Envoy Extraordinary anal Minister Plenipotentiary 

of the Republic in the U. S. of America, Washington City. 

Washington, July 21, 1866. 
A true copy : 

IGNO. MARISCAL, Secretary. 



No. 27. 

Mr. Seivard to Senor Romero. 

Department of State, 

Washington, July 31, 1866. 
Sir : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of 
the 21st instant, containing a copy of a communication addressed to you by 
General Garcia on the subject of the evacuation of Mexico by the French, for 
the information contained in which be pleased to accept my thanks. 

I avail myself of this occasion to renew to you the assurances of my distin- 
guished consideration. 



Senor Don Matias Romero, $c, Sj-c., fyc 



WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 



No. 28. 

Senor Romero to Mr. Setvard. 
[Translation.] 

Washington, July 21, I860. 
My dear Sir : I have the honor to send you some extracts of two letters 
received by the last steamer from Vera Cruz, one of the 29th of June, from the 
City of Mexico, and the other from Puebla, dated the 5th instant, containing 
important information, of reported arrangements lately entered into between the 
Emperor of the French and his Mexican agent, the Austrian ex- Archduke 
Ferdinand Maximilian. I am promised to have a copy of the convention therein 
referred to ; as soon as it reaches me, I will enclose it to you. 

This is the information I alluded to in my conversation with you in the De- 
partment of State this morning. 

I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

M. ROMERO. 
Hon. William H. Seward, fyc, fye., fye. 



84 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 



Mexico, June 29, 1S66. 
******* 

Here is the substance of the negotiations between Mr. Dano, the French min- 
ister, and Maximilian : 

France will leave 20,000 men in Mexico for four years, to be paid out of 
the French treasury. They Avill assume the title of Mexican soldiers, only 
changing their flag and uniform. France will contribute five hundred thousand 
dollars a month to the deficit of the civil list. Collection of the revenues will 
be intrusted entirely to the French. 

Two hundred thousand dollars will be appropriated monthly to the railroad 
between Mexico and Vera Cruz, and the road will be mortgaged, for the French 
debt, the certificates of the last loans being exchanged for railroad bond.-?. 

Such is the substance of the contract. Troops had begun to march upon 
San Luis, and twenty thousand suits of clothing had been contracted for. The 
so-called " Cazadores Mejicanos " will continue to wear the French medals. 
Bazaine will soon start for San Luis. I understand that Jeaningros has been 
ordered to reoccupy Matamoras, at all hazards. The loss of Matamoras was the 
cause of mutual recrimination between Maximilian and Bazaine, and the discord 
was increased by the decree revoking the pension granted by the republic to 
the family of General Zarogoza, the conqueror of the French at Pueblo. 

I will send you a copy of the convention alluded to, by the next steamer. 



Washington, July 21, 1866. 
A true copy : 

IGNO. MAKISCAL, Secretary. 



Pueblo, July 5, 1S06. 

Much esteemed Sir: * * * * * * 

* * * Since the promise of France to observe the principles 

of non-intervention, it is observed that its army continues to sustain the govern- 
ment erected in Mexico ; and the means resorted to in sustaining and consoli- 
dating the throne seem exceedingly strange. 

Reliable papers from Mexico report that Maximilian has concluded a conven- 
tion with Dano, the French minister. Its bases are : That an army of twenty 
thousand men, composed of the Austrians and Belgians now fighting, with the 
French that are to be disbanded in order to enter the Mexican service, are to 
remain. France is to contribute five hundred thousand dollars a month for 
four years, and will supply the deficit of the civil list. 

The general opinion here is, that, in spite of the solemn promises made by 
France to the United States, the withdrawal of the French army will not be 
effected in good faith, for it is hard to give up a work that has cost so much 
blood and money. 



Washington, July 21, 1S66. 
A true copv : 

IGNO. MARISCAL, Secretary. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 85 

No. 29. 

Mr. Seward to Senor Romero. 

Department of State, 

Washington, July 25, 1866. 

Sir : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of 
the 21st instant, containing some extracts of letters received by you from the 
cities of Mexico and Puebla, bearing on the question of French intervention in 
Mexico. Please accept my thanks for the information. 

I avail myself of this occasion to renew to you the assurances of my most 
distinguished consideration. 



WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 



Senor Don Matias Romero, 8fc, Sfc, fyc. 



No. 30. 

Senor Romero to Mr. Seward. 

[Translation. ] 

Mexican Legation in the United States of America, 

Washington, July 24, 1866. 

Mr. Secretary : I have the honor to send you, for the information of the 
government of the United States, the copy of a letter of the 5th instant from 
a reliable person in the city of Mexico ; also three extracts from La Sociedad, 
a paper of that city, which were enclosed in the letter. 

Attention is called in the letter to two circulars contained in the 'extracts 
issued by the so-called prefects of Durango and Queretaro, in regard to 
the enlistment of volunteers in two corps of chasseurs, which are organiz- 
ing, with others of the same kind, by the ex-Archduke Ferdinand Maxi- 
milian, to form an army to sustain his usurpation when the French flag is with- 
drawn from Mexico. 

From the enclosed circulars it appears that the new army is to be composed 
of Mexicans and French, the latter in greater majority as soldiers and especially 
officers. As a proof of this last assertion the first battalion of cazadores was 
formed of Mexicans, and nearly half of the eighty-first regiment of the line of the 
French army now in Mexico, and most all the officers were French. Out of 28 
officers in those battalions only two are of Mexican descent, all the others being 
French, as the names will show. This is seen in the list published by the 
so-called minister of war of the usurper, on the 30th of June last, contained in 
one of the enclosed extracts. All of them came out of the invading army, and 
being promoted one grade, they now enter the army that is to support the 
usurper. 

These particulars confirm the report I had the honor to communicate to you 
in my letter of the 21st, in regard to the late arrangements between the Em- 
peror Napoleon and his agent in Mexico, to sustain him in the position where 
French bayonets have placed him when France has withdrawn her flag, but not 
her soldiers, from Mexico. 

My desire that the United States be duly informed of the most important 
political events occurring in Mexico during the present crisis has induced me 
to give you the information contained in the present note. 

I accept the opportunity of renewing to you, Mr. Secretary, the assurances 
of my most distinguished consideration. 

M. ROMERO. 
Hon. William H. Seward, fyc, fyc, fyc. 



86 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

[Enclosure No. 1.] 

Mexico, July 5, 1866. 

I send a circular ' for the enlistment of volunteers, published in Durango. 
You will see by # it that Maximilian is organizing a Mexican army, forming corps 
of cazadores de Mejico, by the time the French leave, which will be soon. 
These corps will be composed of three or five per cent, of Mexicans, and the 
rest foreigners, that is, French. The best evidence of this is, that the main 
body of the first battalion of cazadores is formed of one thousand men taken 
from the 81st regiment of the line of the French army. The object of this is 
to retain the French army and call it Mexican. You will see by the paper ex- 
tracts I send that out of twenty-eight officers of the cazadores, there are only 
two Mexicans. The French sergeants have been promoted to subalterns, and 
the latter raised to captains. A few southern rebels have been taken into the 
ranks. 

The French Colonel De Portier, known as the scourge in the city of Mexico, 
and as the assassin in Michoacan, will remain as general. 

Bazaine has gone inland to make these arrangements ; and though it is said 
he will go back to France in September with three-fourths of the French army, 
there is little appearance of it at present. 

* 5); ' s|e * * 5js * * 

Washington, July 24, 1866. 
A true copy : 

IGNO. MARISCAL, Secretary. 



[Enclosure No. 2.] 
CIVIL PREFECTURE OF DURANGO, SECTION 3, NO. 448. 

Durango, June 15, 1866. 

His majesty the emperor, and his excellency Marshal Bazaine, having de- 
termined to raise a battalion of foot cazadores, similar to those in the French 
army, the prefect charges you to open an office for the enlistment of volunteers 
within your district, in accordance with the regulations for recruiting volunteers 
of the 1st of November, paying twenty-five dollars to each volunteer, after con- 
forming to articles 59 and 60 of the law referred to. 

The infantry battalion of cazadores shall be commanded by an officer of the 
French battalion, and shall consist of French and Mexican officers and soldiers. 
The soldiers of this body shall be governed by the rules of the French army, 
paid regularly, and all their necessities supplied. Corporal punishment shall 
not be inflicted. 

When not on duty they may go out of their quarters, and leave to visit their 
families may be given to those who conduct themselves properly. 

When their term of service is out they are entitled to a certificate of dis- 
charge, and shall not be forced into military service again. 

Mexican soldiers who give proofs of courage and intelligence shall be made 
officers, according to merit and time of service. Those in the rural guards giv- 
ing evidence of merit may be transferred to the battalion of cazadores with 
their same rank. 

When the battalion is first organized intelligent Mexicans may be made cor- 
porals and sergeants. 

The recruiting flag shall be hoisted on the 1st of July over the headquarters 
in this capital, Pearle street, No. 12. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 87 

The above I communicate to you by order of tbe prefect, to be put in execu- 
tion, and you are hereby ordered to have the same made public. 

LADISLAO LOPEZ NEGRETE 

Secretary General of the Prefecture. 
Captain Manuel Fernandez, 

Acting Military Commander. 



[Enclosure No. o. ] 

In regard to the organization of Mexican forces, and the formation of the 
second battalion of cazadores, the Esperanza of Queretaro says : 

" By order of the civil prefect we insert the following circular, directed to the 
district officials, to protect and encourage the enlistment of soldiers for that dis- 
tinguished corps. We have little to add to what is said in the circular about 
the prefect's views according with those of the emperor of giving power and 
influence to the Mexican army. Every citizen, whatever his condition, should 
aid in this good work, and to show him how to do it, we call his particular 
attention to the circular. 

" The prefect has done well to have a large quantity printed and published, 
and extensively distributed throughout the country." 

Here is the circular to which the Queretaro paper refers : 

"CIVIL PREFECTURE OF THE DEPARTMENT OF QUERETARO. 

" Circular. 

"June 20, 1866. 

" By order of his majesty's government, the second battalion of cazadores 
de Mejico is organizing in this city, to form tbe new permanent army of Mexico, 
with others forming in different localities, conforming in every way to the French 
army. 

" For this purpose a recruiting office is established in this city, at the San 
Francisco barracks, where all volunteers will be received every day^from half 
past eight to half past nine in the morning. 

" The term of volunteer service is 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7 years. 

" They will be well treated and attended to according to the regulations of 
the French army, supplied Avith clothing, shoes, food, bedding, &c, &c, and 
shall have the same pay as the zouaves. 

" The enlisting volunteer must have these qualifications : 

" 1. Age between eighteen and thirty-five years. 

" 2. Health good, and of ordinary size. 

" 3. Condition, single, or widower without children. 

" 4. Conduct orderly, and convicted of no infamous punishment. 

" His majesty's government hopes to restore the Mexican army to its former 
splendor, when the country was prosperous. Constituted in the proper manner, 
with the aid of the loyal sous of the nation, and those who adopt the noble pro- 
fession of arms, it will become in a short time a great moral and brave army, a 
worthy rival of armies of the most civilized nations, because its constituent 
basis will be the French army, acknowledged over all the globe to be the best 
in organization, instruction, and discipline. 

" His Majesty's government and its agents desire to elevate the Mexican 
soldier, to inspire him with a noble and just pride, to make him understand that 
he is no longer a war machine, but a citizen of the most honorable class in the 
country ; while society will confess that he merits all its sympathy and care, as 
an integral portion of the power that constitutes the firmest support of social 
order. 



88 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

"The officers, sergeants, and corporals of the second battalion of cazadores 
are selected from Mexicans and French. Mr. Dcville Chabrol, its commander, 
is worthy of his position, and knows how to treat a soldier. 

" I send yon this circular by order of the civil prefect. You will have it 
distributed extensively among the citizens who can appreciate its importance, 
and encourage them by all lawful means to enlist. 

" I enclose a blank certificate to be given to those who wish to enlist, so 
they may appear at once before the administrative council at the San Francisco 
barracks, under the conditions expressed in paragraph five of this circular. 

" The prefect relies upon your zeal and intelligence for the proper execution 
of this order. 

"J. ANTONIO SEPTIEX, 

" Acting Secretary General. 

" The Sub-prefect of the district of" Sfc. 

The Esperanza continues : 

" We take much pleasure in informing the public that the second battalion of 
cazadores is fast filling up with the best men in the country, both Mexicans 
and French, wdio are on excellent terms; and when others see how well those 
enlisted are treated, the ranks will soon be filled in spite of predictions to the 
contrary. 

" Why cannot we Mexicans form an army worthy of the name, such as we 
had in former times, free from the demoralization of revolutionary corruption?" 



[Enclosure No. 4.] 
WAR DEPARTMENT. 

LIST OF OFFICIAL COMMISSIONS GRANTED THE PAST MONTH FOR THE NEWLY 

ORGANIZED BATTALIONS. 

Federico Mosso, lieutenant first battalion ; Manuel Ornelas, lieutenant first 
battalion • Amado Alfredo Bourlon, second lieutenant second battalion ; Pedro 
Marcelo Casserrane, second lieutenant second, battalion ; Jose Enrique Cham- 
pelon, second lieutenant second batallion ; Francisco Petavy, second lieutenant 
second battalion ; Juan Millia, second lieutenant second battalion ; Luis Adrian 
Falconnet, second lieutenant second battalion ; Esteban Desiderio Falavantour. 
second lieutenant second battalion ; Enrique Francisco Alejandro Morrille, 
second lieutenant second battalion ; Isidoro Luis Tramblay, second lieutenant 
second battalion ; Juan Eugenio Connay, second lieutenant fourth battalion ; 
Juan Jose Eugenio Mizar, second lieutenant fourth battalion ; Juan Chidel, 
second lieutenant fifth battalion ; Claudio Augusto Clement, second lieutenant 
fifth battalion ; Javier Sorobaine, second lieutenant fifth battalion ; Hipolito 
Moynier, captain in the seventh battalion ; Jorge Francisco Burwell, captain in 
the seventh battalion ; Nicolas Schmitt, captain in the eighth battalion ; Julio 
Coray, second lieutenant eighth battalion; Benjamin Hedon, second lieutenant 
eighth battalion ; Luis Eugenio Francomun, second lieutenant eighth battalion ; 
Florencio Luis Aynar, second lieutenant eighth battalion ; Angel Bonbain San- 
tori, second lieutenant eighth battalion ; Juan Jose Maria Certain, second lieu- 
tenant eighth battalion ; Luis E. Fernando Francisco Champreux, second lieu- 
tenant eighth battalion cazadores ; Fernando Carlos Chervillon y Lois, second 
lieutenant eighth battalion cazadores. 

J. M. MARQUEZ, 
Acting Secretary of War. 

Mexico, June 30, 1866. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 89 

No. 31. 

Mr. Seward to Sefior Romero. 

Department of State, 

Washington, July 30, 1866. 

Sir : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of 
the 24th instant, containing a copy of a letter addressed to you from the city 
of Mexico \ also some extracts from a paper called " La Sociedad," published 
in that city, for the information contained in which be pleased to accept my 
thanks. 

I embrace this occasion to renew to you the assurances of my distinguished 
consideration. 



WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 



Senor Don Matias Romero, fye., Sfc. Sfc. 



No. 32. 

Senor Romero to Mr. Seward. 

[Translation.] 

Washington, July 31, 1866. 
My dear Sir: I have the honor to send you a number of the Temps, of 
Paris, published the 17th of this month, in which you will find a paragraph 
taken from the Memorial de la Loire, of the 14th, stating that a new detach- 
ment of the so-called Foreign Legion, of Mexico, passed through that city on 
the 13th, from Aix, going to embark at St. Nazaire for Vera Cruz. 
Most respectfully, your very obedient servant, 

M. ROMERO. 
Hon. William H. Seward, fyc, fyc, Sj-c. 



[From the "Temps," of Paris, of July 17, 1866.] 
The " Memorial de la Loire," of the 14th instant, reports that a new detach- 
ment of the Foreign Legion, coming from Aix and going to embark at St. 
Nazaire, passed yesterday, the 13th, through that city. 



No. 33. 
Mr. Seward to Senor Romero. s 

Department of State, 

Washington, August 5, 1866. 

Sir : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of 
the 31st ultimo, containing a copy of the " Temps," of Paris, in which is con- 
tained some information with regard to some troops destined for Mexico. 

I avail myself of this occasion to renew to you the assurances of my distin- 
guished consideration. 

WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 

Senor Don M. Romero, Sfc., Sfc, Sfc. 



90 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO 



No. 34. 

Sri/or Romero to Mr. Seward. 
[Translation.] 

Washington, August 9, 1866. 

My DEAR Sir : I have the honor to enclose you an extract from the New York 
World of yesterday containing the letter on Mexico to which I alluded in my 
interview with you this morning. 

Although the letter is dated in the city of Mexico, there is iid doubt it was 
written in New York by agents of the usurper Maximilian, for the reason that 
it is dated the 20th of July, and the last Mexican dates received in New York 
only come up to the 10th of July, and because it contains facts that could not 
be known by a mere newspaper correspondent in Mexico, and only by persons 
who have the usurper's confidence and possess his secrets. As a proof of this, 
is the mention of the return of the German priest, Fischer, to Mexico. It is 
not long since he was in this city, on his return from Rome, where he went in 
the usurper's name, as you know, to conclude a concordat with the Pope. 

I mention this to show that the writer of the letter is Avell acquainted with 
the usurper's plans and secrets, and therefore some regard is to be had for what 
he says about the relations of the Emperor of the French with his Mexican 
agent, about the Emperor's indisposal to withdraw his forces from that republic, 
and about the object of his wife's visit to Europe. 

As a general rule I do not attach more importance to newspaper articles than 
you do, particularly when no details are given; but the particular circumstances 
of this case induce me to call your attention to it this morning, for which reason 
I enclose, the extract to you. 

Your very respectful and obedient servant, 

M. ROMERO. 

Hon. William H. Seward, fyc, 8fc, Sf-c. 



[Taken from the New York World, August 8, 1866.] 
[From our own correspondent.] 

City of Mexico, July 20. 

OBJECTS OF CARLOTTA'S VISIT TO EUROPE. 

The departure of the empress Oarlotta for Europe, although at first it created 
considerable excitement in Mexico, has gradually come to assume its proper 
place in its true light, which is an effort on the part of Maximilian to come to 
a definite understanding with Napoleon as to his Mexican relations. In fact, 
the policy of the French Emperor has been anything but satisfactory of late. 
Napoleon seems to delight in ambiguous and mysterious complications, which, 
however they may act upon the outside world, are not particularly edifying to 
those whose destinies hang somewhat on his dictum. Maximilian, as I have 
repeatedly said in my letters, is quite willing that the French troops shall leave, 
but he must know when their removal is to be effected. Plans of the most con- 
tradictory kind, it would seem, are continually being adopted at the Tuileries. 
Official information arrives by one packet that a definite contract has been 
effected with the French Transatlantic Steamship Company for the transportation 
next fall of the whole French army of occupation. But in the face of thi3, ad- 
ditional troops are constantly arriving. Immediately after the rather urgent 
correspondence which took place last winter between Seward and Drouyn de 
Lhuys, the work of concentration was commenced. Most of the imperial 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 91 

troops which the winter before had been marched with such expense and 
trouble into northern Mexico were withdrawn from Sonora and Chihuahua into 
the table lands of Anahuac, ostensibly with the object of concentrating them 
around Mexico for a more easy embarcation at Vera Cruz. The ports of 
Acapulco, G-uaymas, and Mazatlan were consequently left meagrely guarded by 
Franco -Mexican garrisons, and all the adjacent interior towns were abandoned. 
The predictions then made by the able General Garnier, who commanded the 
imperial troops in that direction, have been more than verified. Mazatlan and 
Guaymas are both isolated from the interior ; Tepic is threatened, and the work 
of two years abandoned. 

NAPOLEON'S MEXICAN POLICY. 

It appears now, however, that this policy, although showing on its surface 
the appearance ot a retreat, had deeper foundations. Napoleon, upon examin- 
ing the situation in Mexico, became convinced that his true course was to keep 
two things constantly in view: first, to gain time, and by an appearance of re- 
moving his troops, await some favorable turn of events in the United States 
which would distract attention from Mexico for more pressing affairs at home ; 
and secondly, that no number of troops that the French nation would long sub- 
mit to his maintaining in Mexico could possibly occupy so immense a space of 
territory, and that concentration would not only look like the preliminary steps 
towards evacuation, but would enable him to act more effectively where his 
troops are needed. 

MEXICAN WEALTH AND POPULATION. 

Now an examination of the map of Mexico shows that a vast majority of the 
population and wealth of Mexico is contained in the central states, in the heart 
of which their capital is situated. The cities and large towns, with a very few 
exceptions, are found along the elevated table lands or plateaux of the Mexican 
cordillera, known as the plains of Anahuac. Probably six out of the eight 
millions of the Mexican people inhabit these regions, famous alike for their sa- 
lubrity and productiveness. It is therefore the possession of these districts that 
constitutes an actual domination in Mexico. Marshal Bazaine forcibly demon- 
strated these facts to the French government three years ago, but the idea then 
was to get possession of the rich gold and silver mines of Chihuahua, Sinaloa, 
and Sonora, and, by encouraging southern immigration, make them eventually 
pay the expense of the intervention. 

CONCENTRATION OF THE FRENCH ARMY. 

This policy has been abandoned, and the less expensive but more reasonable 
one of occupying a smaller but more valuable space adopted. The withdrawal, 
therefore, of the French and Austrian troops into central Mexico, while it will 
by no means permanently endanger the seaports of the Pacific coast, will lessen 
the expense, as well as consolidate the power of the imperial government. Thus, 
after a rather vacillating policy caused by the contradictory reports from Mex- 
ico, this course has been decided upon. The troops have been concentrated 
within a few days' call of each other, and, to all appearances, with a view to 
their speedy embarcation next fall ; and yet, in my opinion, nothing is further 
from the intentions of the Emperor than an abandonment of his Mexican enter- 
prise ; and that the emperor Maximilian has the same idea is evident from his 
every act, for the " Sphinx of the Tuileries" appears to have preserved an im- 
perturbable reserve with Maximilian, as well as with the rest of the world, as to 
his ultimate views in Mexico. 



92 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 



WILL TUB TROOPS BE REMOVED. 

It is precisely at this point that the situation hecomes complicated and inex- 
plicable. Napoleon promises, in an ambiguous manner, to withdraw his troops ; 
but at the same time they are concentrated so as to present a more formidable 
front than ever. It is officially announced that the embarcation will speedily 
take place; but every steamer from France brings additional full regiments to 
take the place of the scattering detachments returning to France by expiration 
of term of service. Mail steamers and war steamers are announced to be en 
route for Mexico to bring away the entire army ; but as " foreign legions " arrive 
to take service with Maximilian, both from France and Germany, the available 
forces of the active young emperor are continually augmenting ; for an indefinite 
number of immigrants with the above title may enter the country, and the Uni- 
ted States cannot even expostulate or get up any virtuous indignation. During 
the war of the rebellion the American government swelled its ranks by tens of 
thousands by foreign immigrants, and no government presumed to question its 
perfect right so to do. 

MAXIMILIAN DEMANDS AN EXPLANATION. 

How, then, are we to reconcile these facts with the popular idea that Max- 
imilian is to be abandoned by his European friends 1 Maximilian is in the dark 
as to Napoleon's intentions, if one may judge from appearances. Indeed, it is 
not certain that the French Emperor himself has any definite plan of action, be- 
yond a general fixed idea of clinging to his Mexican enterprise with his charac- 
teristic tenacity of purpose. Oarlotta's visit to Europe, as I have said above, is 
for the purpose of having an cdaircissement of these knotty questions. Verbal 
explanations are always preferable to written ones, which as often complicate as 
unravel political entanglements. The Empress, who is one of the most accom- 
plished ladies of Europe, having been brought up under the eye of the Nestor 
of kings, will solve the riddle concealed within the brain of Napoleon, if human 
ingenuity can accomplish it. As it stands now the question is " very mixed," 
to use a newly coined phrase, but of one thing your readers may rest assured, 
and that is, whether Napoleon deserts or continues to sustain the Mexican empire, 
Maximilian will remain here and be supported by the Mexican people. What 
he wants is to know, beyond peradventure, his standing with France. He will 
not occupy the position of a puppet in the hands of Napoleon. The Mexican 
affair may be a very prolific one for the French Emperor to manage, as political 
circumstances may suggest, for his own glory, but Maximilian has much loftier 
views than mere personal considerations. Whatever he undertakes he never 
abandons. Difficulties only nerve him to greater exertions. To leave Mexico 
is the last idea to enter into his calculations for the future. 

AFFAIRS AT TAMPICO. 

In my last I pictured the condition of affairs by the latest accounts at Tam- 
pico, which, owing to an ill-judged security on the part of the imperial govern- 
ment, had been left to be defended by its citizens against the liberals, who had 
cut off its supplies from the interior. The long expected aid has arrived, and 
the city, which I observe by American newspapers was about to fall into the 
hands of its assailants, has been relieved. The inhabitants, who had stood quite 
a long siege, sallied out, and, joining the relieving forces, drove the liberals into 
the mountains, capturing a large number and wounding and killing many. Tam- 
pico may now be considered as safe. There have been several smart actions 
lately, in which the imperialists were victorious, as they generally are when the 
numbers are anything like equal. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 93 

MATAMORAS AND ITS CAPTURE. 

It cannot be denied by the government that the fall of Matamoras has pro- 
duced a profound effect on all sides ; not tbat tbe possession or loss of such a 
town in itself could be of such surpassing importance, but because its loss in- 
volves serious consequences, which call for an energetic movement by the gov- 
ernment for its recovery. To possess Matamoras places the whole line of the 
Rio Grande indisputably in the hands of the enemy, and gives them a point from 
which to operate with more security with disaffected persons who have located 
in Texas. The Ere Nouvelle, an influential French paper published here, says 
that the blow is the more severe from its being unexpected. " It was supposed," 
says this journal, " that the campaign commenced by General Jeanningros, the- 
double defeat sustained by Cortinas at the hands of Olivera, the increasing 
discord in the Juarist camp, and, finally, the proximity of the French troops in 
Nuevo Leon and at' Saltillo, were sufficient guarantees, if not for a complete 
pacification, at least against any immediate danger of a disaster." 

BAZAINE EN ROUTE TO RECAPTURE IT. 

This, however, is the only disaster the imperial troops have sustained on this 
side of the continent, and it will soon be remedied. Marshal Bazaine has reached 
San Luis Potosi, and will soon have effected a junction with the Franco-Mexican 
forces at Monterey and Saltillo, whence a regular movement will be made upon 
Matamoras for its recapture. In fact, I can state with certainty that this policy 
has been decided upon, and it cannot be long before you will hear music from that 
vicinity. Matamoras has been continually in a ferment since the French occu- 
pation, passing from hand to hand, and acquainted with sieges, battles, and as- 
saults. It is of the first importance that such an important defeat should be re- 
covered. In fact, the situation demands it. 

THE IMPERIAL CABINET. 

It is not yet decided who is to take the place of Sefior Castillo, the minister 
of foreign relations, who has accompanied the empress to Europe. He is a young 
man of first-class attainments, cautious and reliable beyond most of the talented 
characters who have gathered around the emperor. His health has lately suf- 
fered much by over application to the duties of two departments, those of foreign 
affairs and finance. The emperor seems to be gradually ridding himself of his na- 
tive Mexican advisers. Ramirez, who has always been a sort of marplot to the suc- 
cess of Maximilian, was particularly courted as a representative of the liberal party, 
and his nominal adhesion to the empire was considered as a great point gained. 
He was appointed minister of state, and figured quite largely at state balls and 
cabinet councils ; but, like most Mexicans, was far behind the times, and lacked 
the nerve to face the critical issues of the country. Maximilian decorated and 
dismissed him, and, as fast as circumstances will permit, will rid himself of the 
others in the same way. Lacunza and Castillo are both of Spanish blood, but 
were educated and brought up abroad, and have thus been purged of their inhe- 
rent opposition to progressive ideas. Eloin, his chief of cabinet, is now in Eu- 
rope. His council of state is necessarily Mexican, but they do little more than 
wrangle over the questions submitted to them, and in all important issues the 
emperor listens to the opinions of all, and then adopts his own. 

SETTLEMENT OF THE CHURCH IMBROGLIO. 

The question of the church has been finally settled at Rome by the emperor's 
special envoy, " Padre" Fischer, a distinguished German prelate, who is now 
believed to be en route to Mexico. This has been the most difficult matter to 
arrange of all the delicate issues in this Mexican complication ; but, as in all 
cases of the kind, Maximilian has boldly faced it, and succeeded in satisfying 



94 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

all parties. He is a good Catholic prince, and so recognized by the Pope, who 
now clings to every vestige of his temporal authority with redoubled tenacity, 
and has never had the slightest idea of excommunicating such a staunch supporter 
of the real interests of the church, although at one time it was rumored that he 
had been put outside the " awful circle," owing to his bold measures regarding 
the church and liberal imbroglio in this country. 

AFFAIRS AT THE CAPITAL. 

While Louis Napoleon is watching the political horizon, and placing himself 
in a position to trim his sails to suit the Monroe-doctrine gale from the United 
States, Maximilian is making his arrangements for a life-lease in Mexico with 
the utmost unconcern as to any outside movements. He has bought the old 
palace of Cortes at Cuernavaca, and will repair it for his future country residence. 
He is making important changes in the imperial palace in this city ; he is im- 
proving the capital in a hundred different ways ; building railroads, and opening 
roads into the interior ; planting avenues of trees ; publishing codes of laws ; 
establishing steamship and telegraph lines, (and, by the way, regularly paying 
the subsidies granted to them;) raising and equipping an efficient native Mexican 
army ; collecting a revenue under Langlais's new system ; visiting benevolent 
institutions; endowing colleges, and arranging for affairs twenty years in ad- 
vance, as if the country were in profound peace. This certainly does not look 
much like verifying the New York Herald's periodical paroxysm of "packing 
his baggage" for a flight within thirty days from Mexico, which for two years 
has been predicted witli such stereotyped certainty that each leader in that val- 
uable journal on Mexican affairs is only a repetition of the last. If a liberal use 
of ink could induce Maximilian to quit Mexico, he ought to have fled from its 
shores many months ago ; but here he still remains, as secure in his imperial 
position as ever, and it might be well for the several caudillos, who are wran- 
gling at Washington as to which shall succeed him, to remember the old cooking 
recipe about first catching your fish, &c, &c. 

VIAJERO. 



No. 35. 
Mr. Seward to Sefior Romero. 

Department of State, 

Washington, August 16, 1866. 
Sir: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication 
of the 9th instant, containing an extract from the " New York World," for which 
please accept my thanks. 

I avail myself of this opportunity to reiterate to you the expressions of my 
most distinguished consideration. 



Senor Don M. Romero, fyc., fyc, Sfc. 



WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 



No. 36. 

Sector Romero to Mr. Seward. 

[Translation.] 

Mexican Legation in the United States of America, 

Washington, August 15, 1S66. 
Mr. Secretary: I have the honor to transmit to you, for the information 
of the government of the United States, extracts from papers of the city of 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 95 

Mexico, and French papers in New York, containing evident proof of the con- 
dition of affairs in the city of Mexico up to the end of July last. 

Don Fernando Maximilian, the usurper, who organized a sham government 
when he reached Mexico, and tried to give it the semblance of a national institu- 
tion, has finally been compelled to give up the difficult undertaking. 

The so-called government, with a foreign prince for its head, kept up by 
French bayonets and French gold, whose officials are all foreigners, had a Mexi- 
can cabinet till recently, intended to keep up appearances and deceive those not 
qualified to judge of the real situation. 

Now the usurper has laid aside all dissimulation, and removed the last trace of* 
nationality from his ridiculous government by reducing his ministers to three — 
war, treasury, and the interior. He has made General Osmont, General Bazaine's 
chief of staff, minister of war ; Mr. Friant, intendant general of the French ex- 
peditionary corps to Mexico, is minister of finance; and the minister of the 
interior is a Mexican traitor, who will soon be removed to give place to some 
other member of Bazaine's staff. 

After this, it is impossible to call the government pretended to be established 
in Mexico by the French, and headed by Don Fernando Maximilian of Haps- 
burg, a national government. 

The tyranny of the French intervention is now becoming really intolerable. 
Among the enclosed documents you will see some relating to the press ; and 
you will perceive there is less liberty of the press in those parts of Mexico 
under the usurper than there is even in France. All the papers that dared to 
be independent have been suppressed, and none can now be established without 
express permission from the intruders. Papers that supported intervention are 
suppressed if they do not approve of every whim of the bogus government. Per- 
sonal protection is but a shadow in the hands of the usurper. Under pretext of 
conspiracy, many citizens have been imprisoned, others condemned to severe 
punishment that will kill them, and all done without trial or permission of de- 
fence. The assassination of the Montenegro young men (see 7 and 8) in the 
State of Jalisco, only because they belonged to a liberal family, is one of the 
many cases occurring every day in places that have fallen into the invader's 
hands and remain subject to the usurper's will. 

High taxes imposed to sustain the extravagance of the courtly adventurers 
threaten to ruin the scanty resources still left in the country. 

The usurper has just given another unexampled inconsistency, that can 
hardly be believed ; he has granted a pension to the widow of General Zara- 
goza, the conqueror of the French at Puebla, on the 5th of May, 1862. Thus, 
and with a view to show that he appreciates the Mexicans, he has tacitly ac- 
knowledge the merit of a general who died in defence of his country, fighting 
against the French, while he condemns those who acted differently. Now, if 
the Mexicans, fighting for the independence of their country, do not deserve 
to be considered as belligerents, as the French contend, how is it they honor 
the memory of one of that army by granting a military pension to his widow ? 
If it was only meant as an act of mercy, Avithout political meaning, giving aid to 
a needy family, why was it not given in some other way than as a military pen- 
sion, which certainly acknowledges certain rights of the national army of Mexico, 
hitherto denied it by the French. They murder General Arteaga for doing his 
duty as a soldier in defence of his country, while they give a pension to the 
widow of another general who died in the same good cause. 

It is really impossible to see any consistency or good faith in the accom- 
plices of an intrigue engendered by the fraud, inordinate ambition, and other 
baser passions that move some men. 

I embrace the occasion, Mr. Secretary, to renew the assurances of my most 
distinguished consideration. 

M. ROMERO. 

Hon. William H. Seward, fyc, Sfc, fyc. 



96 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 



Index of documents sent by the Mexican legation in Washington to the Depart- 
ment of State of the United, States, with the vote of this date, in relation to 
recent events in Mexico. 



No. 



Date. 



Contents. 



Aug. 13 

July 21 

Aug. 13 

May (5 

May 26 

May 26 

June 20 

June 29 

June 6 

June 6 

June 6 

July 6 

July 20 

July 20 

July 20 



Extract from the Courrier des Etats Unis of the 13th August, 1866, in 
New York, quoting scraps from a semi-monthly review of the Estafette 
relative to the usurper's new cabinet. 

Letter from the correspondent of the Messager Franco-Americain in Vera 
Cruz. 

Extract from the Courrier des Etats Unis of an article from the Ere Nouvelle 
on the suppression of that paper by the usurper. 

Decree of the usurper putting obstacles in the way of publishing news- 
papers. 

Decree of the usurper laying high taxes on real estate in cities. 

Decree of the same in regard to taxes on landed estates. 

Extract from the Boletin de Noticias of Guadalajara, on the assassination of 
the Montenegro young men, and the want of personal security in any 
part of the country under the usurper. 

Circular of Don Jose G. Montenegro and wife, publishing the assassination 
of their son, Diego, for the crime of having a name respected by Mexi- 
can patriots. 

Orders of the usurper for a draft in the cities of Mexico, Puebla, and 
Queretaro. 

Extract from the Diario del Imperio in regard to the payment of a pen- 
sion to the widow of General Zaragoza. 

Extract from the Pajaro Verde, with an article from the Estafette com- 
menting on the pension. 

Fragment from the Diario del Imperio, with the names of those arrested in 
Mexico and sent to Yucatan without trial. 

Letter from Rafael J. Garcia, editor of the Idea Liberal, in Puebla, giving 
reliable information of the present state of affairs in Mexico. 

Letter from the city of Mexico, containing information on the condition of 
things. 

Maximilian's decrees appointing the French Generals Osmont and Iriaut to 
his cabinet. 



Washington, August 15, 1866. 



F. D. MACIN, 
Second Secretary of the Legation. 



[Enclosure No. 1. — From the Courrier des Etats Unis, of New York, August]13, 1666.] 



MEXICO. 

The steamer Daniel Webster, that left Vera Cruz the 31st July, arrived at 
New York the day before yesterday. It brings papers from the capital up to 
the 27th, containing very interesting news. We borrow a summary of it from 
the semi-monthly review of the Ere Nouvelle. 

MINISTERIAL CHANGES. 

Important resolutions of tbe emperor Maximilian have been spoken of for 
some time ; but, as rumors of this kind are so often unfounded, we have thought 
best to await the facts. 

The rumor has at length been realized under the form of three decrees in- 
serted in the official journal. The first appoints General Osmont, chief of staff 
in the expeditionary corps, as minister of war. The second makes Intendant 
Friant minister of finance. The third suppresses the fomento department, and 
merges its duties in that of the interior. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 97 

The three decrees are accompanied by the following note : " To obtain a 
prompt and lasting peace in the country, circumstances require unity of action 
and ideas, the only efficacious remedy in every crisis, according to the reports of 
history. In order to restore peace and prosperity, to produce important changes 
for the better, the emperor requires perfect unity ; and being convinced that the 
necessary guarantee to Mexican society requires it, he has given the portfolio 
of war to the chief of staff of the expeditionary corps, and that of finance to 
the chief intendant. 

" These measures, coinciding with the mission of her majesty the empress, 
will demonstrate that the government agrees with its glorious allies, and does all 
the nation could expect to hasten the pacification of the country. 

" If all good Mexicans will rally under this banner of peace elevated by the 
emperor, forgetting party dissensions, which have done so much harm, the nation 
will soon attain to that prosperity to which it is destined by Providence and its 
geographical situation." 

General Osmont and Intendant Friant possess those qualities best suited to 
the success of their departments. Mr. Friant will have the hardest task, but 
his experience and firmness will accomplish what he has undertaken. The fact 
of his accepting the office is a proof that he will discharge its duties, however 
difficult they may be. 

The department of justice has also been lessened to a simple bureau. 

The number of head departments are therefore reduced to three : Osmont is 
secretary of war, Friant of finance, and Salazar Ilarregui of the interior. 

Unity of action will only be more easy and complete. 



[Enclosure No. 2. — From theMessager Franco-Americain, of New York, August 11, 1866.] 

MEXICO. 

[Private correspondence of the Messager.] 

Vera Cruz, July 21, 1866. 

The departure of the empress Charlotte for Europe, in the last French packet, 
has caused, great grief among the people devoted to the empire. But her depart- 
ure has been construed into a declaration of a desperate state of affairs in Mex- 
ico by the republicans. They have vainly tried to conceal the true cause of a 
voyage so dangerous to Charlotte, at a time when the yellow fever is raging at 
Vera Cxuz. The Journal de PEmpire vainly affirms that the Belgian princess 
was on a confidential mission to Europe, " relative to the embarrassed finances 
of Mexico ;" but everybody knows what these assertions are worth. 

I must remark in this place, that the foregn merchants in Vera Cruz are in 
despair at seeing the empire waste away, as it is doing. All the foreigners, 
French, English, or German, are imperialists ; only the North Americans, or 
Yankees, as we call them, are in favor of Juarez and the republic. With the 
exception of some liberal and enlightened spirits, the merchants have always 
fancied that the empire alone could give them order and peace, without which 
trade is impossible. So, since the fall of Maximilian is threatened, I have heard 
endless lamentations around me, particularly among my countrymen. But the 
native merchants are rubbing their hands in joy at the prospective departure of 
the expeditionary corps. The former see ruin and disaster, where the latter 
foresee prosperity and wealth. This is because the foreigners in Vera Cruz, as 
well as those in Mexico, have looked upon Mexico as a conquered country ever 
since 1862. Both hoped to get rich rapidly at the expense of the native popu- 
ation, relying upon the protection of the authorities, who were always more 
favorable to them than to the Mexicans. Intervention was a flagrant violation 

7 MEX. 



98 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

of popular rights, and of course it caused violations of individual rights. Now 
if Maximilian falls, all that will change; the government will become national, 
and will protect Mexicans. That is what frightens our business men. 

And besides, they tear the people — always restlessin Mexico — will call them 
to an account for their sympathies with the foreigner. Our people in particular 
are the objects of the leperos knife. Are they right or wrong ? That is what 
I will not' undertake to decide; but if their fears are founded, what a terrible 
responsibility those will have who have excited the popular passions by violating 
the principles of sovereignty and the independence of the nation ! And then, 
those who welcomed the expedition in 1861, will be the first to curse interven- 
tion. . 

Several regiments of the army of occupation are to leave here in October. 
The 1st and 3d zouaves, the 62d and 8 1st of the line, the 18th battalion of in- 
fantry hunters, four squadrons of African hunters, one company of engmeers, 
and two artillery batteries are mentioned as about to quit the country for France. 

Consequently the expeditionary army will be reduced to one division of in- 
fantry, six cavalry squadrons and their artillery reserves. The foreign legion, 
■which is to remain till the last in Mexico, by the convention of Miramar, has 
been reorganized and increased by a 7th and 8th battalion. According to the 
Miramar convention, the foreign legion lent by France to Maximilian was to 
consist of only six battalions ; but the two supplementary battalions will not be 
effective; they will only be composed of officers lent to Mexico for the organ- 
ization of the cazadores de Mejico, national troops fashioned after our chasseurs 
a pied. 

According to the projects of Marshal Bazaine, which are not likely to be car- 
ried out, the cazadores de Mejico will form eight battalions, commanded by 
leaders of French battalions. The adjutants, captains, drill leaders, lieutenants, 
and commissary officers, will also be French ; and to retain their right to pro- 
motion, they will be reckoned in the 7th and 8th battalions of the foreign regi- 
ment, consisting solely of officers. 



[Enclosure No. 3.— From the Courier des Etats Unis, New York, August 13, 1866.] 
INCIDENT OF THE PRESS. 

With some reserve, and not without astonishment, we reprinted on Saturday 
an extract from a correspondence from Mexico addressed to the Times, which 
says the Ere Nouvelle and the Sociedad were suspended for one month for pub- 
lishing a criticism upon the Mexican expedition, taken from the Courier des 
Etats Unis. We have guessed the riddle ; it is about an article we took from 
a Paris paper, not a criticism by the Courier editor, without assuming any 
responsibility for it, but as a piece of history of the Mexican expedition. Here 
is the article : 

"According to the Paris Presse the emperor Maximilian has once more 
required the financial assistance of France, declaring his intention to abdicate if 
it is refused. The French government should have rejected the Mexican em- 
peror's demand, and ordered Marshal Bazaine to call a convention of the people 
in case of Maximilian's abdication." 

The New Era published the above on the 10th of July, with the following 
comments : 

" If the paragraph had originated in an American paper it would not have 
attracted any notice, but coming from a French journal, it excites much aston- 
ishment." 

The following notice was served on Mr. Masseras on the 12th : 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 99 

Mexico, July 12, 1866. 
The paragraph in your paper of the 10th instant, taken from the Courier des 
Etats Unis, originally from the Paris Presse, contains an alarming falsehood. 
By its publication you violate article three, section second, of the law of the 10th 
of April, 1865, regulating the press. 

Therefore, the civil prefect, by superior order, instructs me to serve this 
second notice on you, to be inserted on the first page of the next number of your 
paper, which you will suspend for one month, according to article twenty of the 
law above quoted. 

CARLOS ZAVALA, 
Secretary General of the Prefecture. 

The New Era had been notified only the day previous for publishing false 
news. Instead of serving a warning upon the editor, as should have been done 
according to the law quoted, the severest penalty was imposed upon the paper. 
But that omission gave Mr. Masseras the chance to have the order of suspension 
countermanded, which was done. 



[Enclosure No. 4.] 

We have received files of the Diario del Imperio to the 18th of May. 

The following decree concerning the establishment of newspapers has been 
issued by Maximilian: 

" Article 1. For the establishment of any newspaper or publication which 
is to start at a fixed time or otherwise, and is to be engaged in public affairs, 
the permission of the authorities will be required ; this being only granted by 
our government, and as our delegates, by the imperial commission or the pre- 
fect. 

" Our minister of government is charged with the execution of the present 
decree. 

" Given in the city of Mexico, the 6th day of May, 1866. 

"MAXIMILIAN." 

" For the emperor : The minister of government, 

"JOSE SALAZAR ILARREGUL" 



[Enclosure No. 5.] 

Maximilian, emperor of Mexico : Having heard our council of ministers, we 
decree : 

Article 1. Direct taxes on real estate, in town or country, shall be collected' 
in proportion to its production or income solely, and not in proportion to the* 
amount of capital invested. 

Article 2. The quota of taxation will be the sixth part of the net income- 
of such property, when situated in the city, and the seventh when situated in. 
the country, and it must be paid in three instalments, each in advance, viz : one- 
third in the first ten days of January, one-third in the first ten days of May, . 
and the remaining third in the first ten days of September of each year, 

Article. 3. To ascertain the net income, the rent which the property ought to 
produce shall be taken for such, deducting, in case it is situated in the city, 15 
per cent, on " houses of the neighborhood," (casas de vecindad,) and 10 per 
cent, on all others. 

Article. 4. By houses of the neighborhood, for the purposes of the preceding 
articles, are to be understood those which contain, more than three tenanta 



100 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

within the same entrance or exterior door, not including rooms which have sep- 
arate entrances from the street, (accessorias.) Houses not embraced in this de- 
scription will not be taken as houses of the neighborhood, (casas de vecindad ) 

Article 5. The income which city real estate should produce is the amount 
of money for which it is rented ; and if not rented at the time, the amount for 
which it last rented. 

Article 6. In cases where the proprietor is the occupant of the property, an 
equitable sum shall be fixed upon, which shall serve, instead of the rent, as a 
basis of taxation. 

Article 7. The tax being levied directly upon the property, no subletting 
will be taken into consideration, the proprietor being taxed solely on the rent 
he receives from the tenant with whom he deals. 

Article 8. The net income of property in the country which is rented at 
the time, or which has been rented the next preceding year, will be the total 
amount of the rent. 

Article 9. Where such property in the country is either not actually rented 
at the time, or has not been rented the year next preceding, the net income shall 
be taken to be what remains to the proprietor of the total proceeds, after de- 
ducting the expenses of cultivation, harvesting, and preservation. 

Article 10. The proprietor shall file in the register's office a declaration of 
the amount of the net income thus ascertained ; but the office, when the amount 
in the declaration appears too small, may estimate it anew, and, for this pur- 
pose, may require the proprietor to submit to examination his book- balances 
and other documents calculated to throw light upon the truth. 

Article 11. Country real estate shall be understood to mean all land, with 
or without a house, within or without the lines of a poblacion, on which any 
species of agriculture is carried on for purpose of profit. 

Article 12. Haciendas producing metals, salt, or sugar will be taxed like 
the country property just above mentioned. 

Article 13. The property designated in the following classification will be 
alone exempt from taxation : 

1. National property. 

2. Municipal property occupied gratis in the municipal service. 

3. Palaces of archbishops, bishops, and houses of curates not belonging to 
private individuals. 

4. Temples of any worship whatsoever and the houses appertaining, inhab- 
ited gratis by its ministers, recognized by the state. 

5. Those occupied gratis by establishments of public beneficence or instruc- 
tion which do not belong to individuals who receive rent for them. Real estate 
belonging to a private individual who receives rent for it, though it should be 
occupied for the public service or ecclesiastical purposes, or those of instruction 
or beneficence, will, nevertheless, be subject to taxation. 

6. Edifices occupied gratuitously by civil or ecclesiastical corporations au- 
thorized or tolerated by the state. 

7. Lands or edifices which by special law have been exempted from taxation 
for a limited time, while within the time of fulfilling the conditions annexed by 
the law of the exemption. 

Article 14. When the owner of an estate acknowledges, by a special hy- 
pothecation of the same, a sum of money for which he must pay interest, 
whether by instalments, irregular deposits, or in any other mode whatsoever, 
the said owner shall pay for tax the sixth or seventh part of the rent, ac- 
cording to its being town or country property ; but he shall discount to him 
entitled to receive said interest an equal amount to that which he shall have 
paid. 

Article 15. All exceptions hitherto made in favor of capital are hereby re- 
voked, and the proprietors will pay the tax, devoting thereto one-sixth of their 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 101 

income from this source ; this whether devoted heretofore to beneficence, public 
instruction, the national or municipal treasury, religious endowments, or any- 
other object formerly excepted. 

Article 16. No judge nor authority nor public functionary shall entertain 
any representation or memorial, nor shall any notary public or clerk authenti- 
cate any document, relative to the rights which any owner may claim to exer- 
cise, unless he can show a receipt for the payment of his taxes, as above pre- 
scribed, up to the latest date. When produced, the original receipt will be re- 
turned to the owner, after having appended to the memorial or authentication a 
simple copy of the same, certified to be correct by the judge, authority, or no- 
tary public. 

Article 17. As soon as the tax ordained by this decree shall go into opera- 
tion in any place, all former laws for the taxation of real estate are thereby re- 
pealed, except that of the 30th of April for the draining of Mexico, and the 
municipal laws. 

Article 18. The tax of the drainage will continue to be collected as at 
present, viz , one-tenth of one per cent. 

Given in Mexico, May 26, 1866. 



[Enclosure No. 6.] 

Maximilian, emperor of Mexico : Having held our council of ministers, we 
decree : 

Article 1. All cultivated lands in the country will pay annually, besides the 
tax on their annual production, a half real for every 35,112 metres square, or 
50,000 varas square, contained in the whole of their area. 

Article 2. The cultivated lands whose area does not amount to 50,000 varas 
square, will pay a half real, whatever their extent. 

Article 3. In the contemplation of the preceding articles are included lands 
in common, and all rural cultivated lands of corporations, communities, and 
pueblos which have not been reduced to private appropriation by virtue of the 
law of 25th June, 1856, and which have the character of being legitimately 
possessed in common, in conformity to the law cited. 

Article 4. Within two months after the publication of thislawinthe capital 
of any district, the possessors of country cultivated lands situated in its terri- 
tory will deposit in the office of registry of direct taxation of the same district 
a declaration setting forth the land or lands that they possess, with the area 
which they comprehend and their situation, and name, if they have any. In 
the office of registry a register will be kept in which will be recorded all these 
declarations ; a certificate of having done so being given to the parties concerned, 
with an insertion of an extract from the register. 

Article 5. At the expiration of the two months above mentioned, all lands 
not declared as above prescribed, will be considered wild and unappropriated, 
and the agents of the administration will proceed to take possession, handing 
them over to the minister of fomento to dispose of them as he may see proper. 

Article 6. When in the opinion of the agents of the office the area of the 
land has been underestimated in the declaration, a survey shall be ordered, and 
the excess of land above the estimate shall be also declared unappropriated. 
In this case the expenses of the survey shall be defrayed by the owner. 

Article 7. If after declaration made as aforesaid, the posessors of the land 
should have it surveyed, and should it result that the area as set forth in the 
declaration was greater than that actually possessed, the amount of taxes paid 
on the excess will be refunded. 

Article 8. The lands placed at the disposal of the minister of fomento for 
alienation on account of the owners, on the same terms adopted by the govern- 



102 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

mont fov the alienation of unappropriated lands of the territory in which they 
find themselves located, shall be exempt from this tax. 

ARTICLE 9. In order to be entitled to the exemption referred to in the preceding 
article it will be required : 

1. To present the minister of fomento with a formal map of the estate of 
which the lands placed at the disposition of the minister form a part. 

2. On the said map the lands placed at the disposal of the minister must be 
distinctly and definitely delineated. 

Article 10. This tax must be paid every six months in advance, and it will 
go into operation on the date of its publication. 
Given in Mexico, 26th May, 1SG6. 



[Enclosure No. 7. — From the Boletin de Noticias, Guadalajara, June 30, 18G6. No. 167.] 

SOCIAL GUARANTEES. 

"We take the following paragraph from a letter dated Zapotlan, 23d instant : 

Gregorio (Jontreras died day before yesterday, at three o'clock in the after- 
noon, from a shot he received the evening previous at the hands of Rafael 
Chavez, in Parota street, leading to Ochoa Vazquez's farm, because Contreras 
would not fight him. 

On the same day, and almost at the same hour, men from this city, Zapotiltic, 
and Tuxpan, caught up with Diego and Matias Montenegro, Faustino Ugarte, 
and Rosalio Vazquez, near Tecalitlan, and fired upon them with muskets. 
Matias Montenegro, son of the late Miguel Montenegro, was killed. Diego then 
dismounted, and going up to his enemies begged for life till he could make out 
his innocence. He was on his knees, with his hat in his hand, when they shot 
him dead on the spot. The other two young men had the luck to escape with 
their lives. This occurrence is well known here, and has caused much alarm. 
No investigation has been made. The man who committed the deed is named 
Galindo. 

Reliable persons have given us the particulars of the above occurrence. 
Diego Montenegro, son of old Colonel Jose Montenegro, was not over sixteen ; 
he was going out to work with his cousin Matias, a little older, at a farm belong- 
ing to the latter. 

Their murder was of the most atrocious character, and we can readily im- 
agine the consternation it caused in Zapotlan. "When the citizens find that 
neither their lives nor their property is safe from those who ought to defend 
them, all confidence is lost, and society must lapse into a savage state. 

Jalisco has had the sad privilege of witnessing sanguinary sights of that kind 
for some time past ; and we now have to add the Montenegro young men to the 
names of Murillo, Llamas, Merino, and Alcaraz. The evil increases instead of 
diminishing. Why is this ? "We will boldly say, it is because the guilty are 
not punished. Society is shocked at this shedding of innocent blood, and each 
one awaits his turn to be sacrificed. 

To give a just idea of what is passing in those unhappy towns, let us glance 
at the past. Last month we spoke of the atrocious and unjust murder of Trini- 
dad Alcaraz, near Zapotlan. After the Payaso had mentioned the event, the 
prefect of Colima pretended to investigate the affair. Here is the reply of the 
sub-prefect of Zapotlan, taken from the official paper of Colima: 

" Civil Sub-prefecture of Zapotlan, 

" June 6, 1866.— No. 512. 
" Dear Sir : I received your note of the 4th instant, in which you state that 
your attention has been called to the mention of the murder of Trinidad Alcaraz, 
in No. 4 of the Payaso. In reply, I inform you that, on the 24th of April, I 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 103 

received a communication from the alcalde of Tamazula, saying that on the 
night of the 17th he received a despatch from the commander of the imperial 
officers at Matacristos and Alverea, and from Commissioner Reyes Diaz, say- 
ing, as he went in pursuit of robbers, Trinidad Alcaraz came out and attacked 
them with the robbers. Two of the civil officers were killed and several wounded. 
The robbers then shut themselves up in Trinidad Alcaraz's house. The next 
day Reyes Diaz came and besieged it. Manual Alcaraz was ordered to give up 
his son, which was done. Now as he was in league with the robbers, and had. 
been their accomplice of the robbers in their plunders and assassination, even 
before the war, and had frequently been in jail for murder, and only got off by 
his great influence, it was decided to shoot him on the spot. The alcalde was 
opposed to such summary proceedings, and started with the prisoner to Tama- 
zula. On the road he was attacked by an ambuscade, and Trinidad Alcaraz 
was killed. Reyes Diaz told the alcalde he was a police commissioner, ap- 
pointed by the prefect of Guadalajara, and he had the power to dispose of all 
such criminals in a summary way. An investigation of the affair was com- 
menced the next day in Tamazula, and it has not been finished yet. 

" All of which I communicate to you for your information. God grant you 
many years. 

"MIGUEL ROBLEDO, 

" District Sub-prefect. 

The Superior Prefect of the department of Colima." 

From the above communication it is evident Alcaraz was shot in cold blood, 
and we are tempted to inquire in what kind of society we are living. After this 
we have nothing more to say ; the facts are eloquent. 

Colonel Montenegro has our most sincere condolence. In less than three 
years he has lost three of his sons by violence. We sympathize with him in 
his grief, and pray for the eternal repose of young Diego's soul. 

After the above was written we saw another letter from Zapotlan, from which 
we take the following : 

"As Gregorio Contreras was returning from his farm last night he was at- 
tacked and murdered near the city by Rafael Chavez, one of the police appointed 
by Robledo. The assassin has not yet been arrested, though a warrant has 
been issued, and he is still in the place. Robledo and Chavez were personal 
enemies of the deceased ; the former hated him because he was a liberal, the 
latter had a private grudge against him." 

This letter says the Montenegro boys were going to Tecalitlan to buy cattle 
when they were murdered. 



[Enclosure No. 8.] 
OBITUARY. 

Gaudalajara, June 29, 1866. 

J. Gaudalupe Montenegro and wife inform you, with profound grief, that their 
son Diego, aged sixteen years and five months, was murdered and robbed, on 
the 21st of this month, by order of the chief authority of Zapotlan, for no other 
crime than being named Montenegro. 

They beg you to pray God for the eternal repose of his soul, and the protec- 
tion of the lives and property of us unfortunate Mexicans. 

( Printed by Brambila.) 



104 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

[Enclosure No. 9.] 
ORDER OF A CONSCRIPTION. 

By order of the government measures have been taken in reference to a par- 
tial conscription, according to the law of the 21st of November, which institutes 
conscription, the basis of the military organization of Europe. 

The following is the circular which this prefectura has published : 

Prefectura Politic.a of the District of the Valley of Mexico, 

Mexico, June 6, 1866. 

The ministry of gobernacion, under date of yesterday, has addressed to this 
prefectura the following communication : 

His majesty the emperor has decided that, in accordance with articles 2d 
and 12th of the law of the 1st of November, 1865, the partial conscription, on 
the terms therein prescribed, shall be proceeded with. This conscription is de- 
signed to call into service a certain number of men necessary to the reorganiza- 
tion of several companies. The following is the basis determined on : 

On Sunday, the 15th of July of the present year, a draft for 2,300 men will 
take place in the capital of the district of the Valley of Mexico and in the capi- 
tals of the districts of Puebla and Queretaro. 

2. The city of Mexico will furnish 1,449 men, Puebla 1,543, and Queretaro 
345. 

3. The said towns will be exempted from the general conscription which will 
soon take place throughout the empire. 

The draft will take place in accordance with the provisions of the law of the 
1st of November, 1865. 

I have the honor to communicate this to your excellency, in order that the 
necessary orders may be transmitted to the respective authorities, according to 
the decision of his majesty, and to request that you will send me a copy of 
these orders for the information and action, if necessary, of the ministry under 
my charge. 

The Minister of Gobernacion, 

SALAZAR ILARREGUL— ( UEstafette.) 



[Enclosure No. 30.] 
PENSION TO THE FAMILY OF GENERAL ZARAGOZA. 

The Diario del Imperio of yesterday says : 

"The widow of General Zaragoza has received a pension, which she justly 
deserved, in virtue of an existing law that has never been repealed. His 
majesty could not be so unjust as to refuse a support to orphans. 

"This act is just because it is according to law, and generous because it is re- 
lief to an unfortunate family. It has given offence politically, which should 
not have been, as his majesty's sentiments for his glorious allies, the French, 
are well known. 

"It is judging ill of France to think she will be displeased with an act of jus- 
tice, which is helping a widow with a family. This great nation, that has given 
so many noble examples of generosity to its enemies, will never deny justice to 
the relatives of a man with whom it has contended. If it is necessary to give ex- 
amples, we will remind you that the Bourbon government granted a pension for 
life to Robespierre's sister, and his Majesty the Emperor Napoleon gives a 
splendid pension to the Emir Abd el Kader, who fought against France for sev- 
enteen years. 

" So it will be noble to let this question rest, as it only acknowledges the right 
of a widow protected by the laws of the land." 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 105 

[Enclosure No. 11. — From El Pajaro Verde, Mexico, June, 1866.] 
A FALSE STEP. 

" The Estafette gives the ahove title to the ratification of the pension voted by 
the rebels in their congress to the family of Don Ignacio Zaragoza, a notice of 
which was published in the Sociedad. The Estafette hopes it is a mistake, and 
that the publication will be contradicted, and then makes these comments : 

" If it were a private charity no attention would be paid to it, nobody would 
object in the least ; but the publicity of the affair shows it has a political sig- 
nification, and each one interprets it after his own fashion. The Juarists say : 

"'If Maximilian by this means to confess that General Zaragoza was well- 
deserving of his country because he resisted the foreign invaders, why does he 
continue to make war on Juarez, and treat as rebels those who are now follow- 
ing the patriotic traditions of the defender of Puebla ? Zarogoza would have 
fought against him just as he did against Lorencez. The general's glory is our 
heritage, and we scorn the alms given to his widow. We must tremble now, 
when they seek to conquer us with pensions!' 

"The conservatives, on their part, make the following remarks: 

" 'As the government raises this monument to the memory of Zaragoza, and 
publicly proclaims him worthy of the nation's gratitude, we who called for in- 
tervention, and chose Maximilian as emperor of Mexico, we who support dif- 
ferent men and entertain different opinions, we must be the rascally traitors ! 
Nothing should be given to him who renounces a cause ! 

" 'As to the red breeches, they thought it the strongest investment that could 
be made of money lent by the French treasury to the Mexican government.'" 

The Estafette concludes by declaring the grant a false step, that should not 
have been taken till the enemy was conquered. It says : " The challenge was 
accepted ; war was declared and is now being waged; the trumpet has sounded, 
and no friendly feeling or impossible compromise must be mentioned till the 
contest is over." 

The echo of that^declaration of the Estafette will be heard for many years 
to come. 



[Enclosure No. 12.] 
PERSONS ARRESTED. 

The Diario del Imperio says : The government has ordered the arrest of the 
following persons, disturbers of public peace and order, in conformity with ar- 
ticle 77 of the statutes : 

Feliciano Chavarria, General Jose Rojo, Mr. Kampherr, Pedro Echavarria, 
Augustin Cruz, Augustin Zires, (general,) Manuel M. Puente, Juan Mateos, 
Ignacio Ramirez, General Jose de la Parra, Manuel Parada, Gabriel M. Islas, 
Antonio M. Zamacona, Padre Ordonez, Jose M. Arroyo, Joaquin Alcalde, and 
J. A. Gamboa. 



[Enclosure No. 13.] 

Puebla, July 20, 1866. 
Respected Sir : • * * * * * * 

The Austrian army has been recently organized here and merged into the 
Mexican army. The men are allowed to choose their arms ; $25 bounty is 
offered to every soldier when he enlists, and the same sum is given when his 
time is out to pay his expenses home, if he does not choose to remain in Mexico ; 
but if he remains land is given to him. 

* * # * * * * 



106 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

The circular letter of the Montenegro family, in Guadalajara, the original of 
which I send you, with the Boletin de Guadalajara, will give you an idea of the 
true state of affairs in Mexico. The Socicdad published the document and got 
a warning for it, and is now suspended for a month for publishing a paragraph 
taken from the Courrier of New York, that took it from the Paris Presse. It 
wanted to supply its suppression by a Boletin, but only one number was printed. 

The Notieioso and the Diablo Predicador, of Vera Cruz, have been sup- 
pressed ; and it is thought that in less than a month there will be no other pa- 
pers in the country than French and official journals. 

The following persons have been arrested in Mexico and transported to Yuca- 
tan without any reasons for the act: 

Ignacio Ramirez, Joaquin Alcalde, Manuel S. Parada, Gabriel M. Yslas, Juan 
Mateos, Pedro Echeverria, Antonio Zamacona, Manuel Morales Pucnte, Jose" 
Miguel Arroyo, Generals Augustin Zires, John Kamper, Feliciano Chavarria, 
Jose Maria Rojo, Augustin Cruz, Jose Parra, and Priest Ordonez. These pris- 
oners arrived at Puebla on the 17th, at midnight, in two coaches, escorted by 
militia, and continued their journey in a few hours. They were kept in the Con- 
ception military prison, and were not permitted to see anybody. * * 

The escort had orders to shoot any that attempted to escape, or any who 
might try to rescue them. It is said seventy others, whose names are down in 
Mexico, will soon follow these, and forty-eight leave here to-day with the escort 
for Yucatan. They are the insurgents of the Palma ward, and those who 
stoned the tables set out for the draft The government of this city has fol- 
lowed the example of the capital and ordered the arrest of many persons here, 
and I am among the first. ***** 

Those ordered to be arrested at the same time with me are, most of them, in 
prison, and will soon be on their way to Yucatan. 

The liberals seized the garrison of Papantla, as you know, and took posses- 
sion of the town. A column of 500 men with three pieces of artillery was sent 
to recover it. The liberals allowed them to come in, and then surrounded them, 
and forced them to surrender, taking all their arms, ammunition, and provisions. 
The officers of the traitors were shot, the Austrians were kept in prison, and 

the common soldiers were released. 

******* 

I may be excused for calling your attention to the situation of the country 
where there is no national government, but one forced upon the people by 
French bayonets. There is no freedom of the press ; no personal security ; no 
guarantees of any kind. Everybody is persecuted ; anarchy and tyranny pre- 
vail everywhere. It is not strange that the country is excited — that an erup- 
tion is breaking out which will cost much blood and many tears. 

******* 

Your very obedient servant, 



Mr. Matias Romero, in Washington. 
A true copy : 



RAFAEL J. GARCIA. 



Washington, Aitgust 15, 1S66. 

F. D. MACIN, 

Second Secretary of the Legation. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 107 

[Enclosure No. 14.— From the New York Tribune of August 16, 1866.] 

City of Mexico, July 20, 1866. 

Great excitement has been occasioned in all the principal cities by the order 
for a draft to fill up the imperialist army. The modes of raising troops under 
the republic were voluntary enlistment or leva, which latter process, resembling 
the old English impressment for the naval service, was merely the sending out 
of an armed force and making a general, indiscriminate " gobble up " of every 
able-bodied male, to put him incontinently into the ranks — to run away, of course, 
on the first suitable occasion. In lieu of this system, the emperor decreed a draft 
or conscription, by lot, with the usual provisions for exemption, and also one for 
payiDg four hundred dollars to the government for a substitute for a drafted 
man. Neither fighting nor paying money being a favorite occupation Avith Mex- 
ican townspeople, a stampede from the towns to the mountains or other hiding 
places had begun. A journal of Queretaro states that it was so general in that 
city, among all classes, that on the day appointed for the draft probably none 
but the exempts would be left. A like exodus had commenced in Mexico and 
Puebla, as the 15th of July had been announced as the day on which the lottery 
for the honor of bearing arms was to come off. Before that day arrived it was 
postponed, and finally the official Diario of the 19th declared that the entire draft 
had been indefinitely postponed as " unnecessary." The announcement con- 
tains many pi-etty reflections on the glory of defending one's country, and the 
equity and advantages of a draft; but says that inasmuch as the authorities in 
the provinces had represented to the emperor that the rural guards, already 
disciplined, sufficed for the desired increase of the army, the draft would only 
give them raw troops in greater numbers than the service required. 

The Estafette gave publicity to some strange rumors in reference to General 
Almonte, formerly the chief of the monarchical party in Mexico, and head of the 
regency prior to Maximilian's arrival in the country. These rumors were that 
the general, on his way last winter to France, as Mexican ambassador to that 
country, called on Santa Anna at St. Thomas, and had a protracted interview 
with the exiled chieftain, the result of which was a secret union of those two 
former bitter enemies, with a view to dethroning Maximilian. The official Diario 
of July 17 noticed in a few lines these rumors, and queerly adds : " We can 
affirm that we know of no foundation for any such reports." One of its cotem- 
poraries calls attention to the singular wording of this denial, and adds : " Until 
the Diario shall have said there is no foundation for the reports, we incline to 
believe them." 

It has long been known to those acquainted with Mexican affairs that Almonte 
was very dissatisfied. He had received from the emperor Maximilian high 
court positions, but seemed to be excluded from employments of real power and 
influence, until his recent appointment as ambassador to Louis Napoleon. There 
is also, we believe, no doubt that on his way to Paris he and General Brincourt, 
of the French army in Mexico, paid Santa Anna a long visit. 

Private advices received in this city state that Almonte's desertion of the 
emperor and complicity with Santa Anna were generally believed in well- 
informed circles in that city, and at one time it was expected that a decree 
would appear depriving him of his employments and outlawing him. It was 
further asserted that he had used his position at Paris to influence the French 
Emperor against Maximilian ; that his intrigues had been disclosed to the em- 
press Carlotta in a letter from no less a personage than the Empress Eugenie, 
who advised her sister of Mexico to counteract them in person ; and that that 
letter occasioned the abrupt departure of the latter for Paris during the absence 
of Marshal Bazaine on his journey to northern Mexico, and without consulting 
the wishes or opinions of the French. The Mexican minister of foreign affairs, 
Senor de Castillo, accompanied the empress Carlotta on her European journey. 



108 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

The same number of the Diario gives a list of persons arrested in the city of 
Mexico on July 15, on the charge of conspiring to disturb the public peace and 
order Their names are as follows : Generals Josd Rojo, Agustin Zires and Jose 
de la Parra, the Padre Ordonez, Messrs. Feliciano Chavarri, Wampher, Pedro 
Echevarria, Agustin Cruz, Manuel Morales Puente, Juan Mateos, Ignacio Ramirez, 
Manuel Paraaa, Gabriel Maria Islas, Antonio Maria Zamacona, Jose Miguel 
Arroyo, and Joaquin Alcalde. 

Most of these persons are partisans of Santa Anna the rest are active liberals. 
Senor Arroyo was assistant secretary of state under Santa Anna's last dictator- 
ship, and the Padre Arroyo is one of his most devoted partisans. All the pris- 
oners, except the padre, whose illness precluded his removal, were sent off on 
July 17 to Yucatan, the Mexican Dry Tortugas. 

The French journals, the Estafette and Ere Nouvelle, are jubilant over the 
emperor's change of policy. The former, of July 27, says : 

" In presence of the enmities exhibited against the empire, and of the dangers 
which threaten it, the direction of public affairs should not remain in irresolute 
hands. It is necessary to oppose the audacity of the insurgents with calm and 
inflexible energy, disorders with the action of justice, the excesses of the oligarchs 
with effectual repression, and secret intrigues with a command to cease. 

" It would be a disgrace to the empire to remain inert and vacillating ; it would 
be intolerable to think that a flag honored in every quarter should be derided 
and scoffed at with impunity. That flag, whether it shall withdraw soon or 
late, must leave behind it glorious memories, and command respect from both 
friends and foes. 

" A monarchy cannot be founded on plunder and with supporters of anarchy ; 
the empire should seek in the stanch imperialists its defenders and active leaders. 
It was high time to do so ; but it is not too late ; the adoption of a resolute and 
consistent policy may still secure both the present and the future. The close 
alliance between the empire and the French army will give to Mexico the force 
and credit sufficient to overcome all enemies and frustrate all plots. 

" The Juarists, Ortegists, and Santanists have declared open war, war with- 
out quarter, against the imperial government and the French flag. The war is 
accepted, and will be carried on as it should be. This is the meaning of the 
new ministry. The game is regularly begun, and swords are trumps." 

The Pajaro Verde, (organ of the Church party,) in its number of July 28, 
quotes the above editorial, and adds : 

" Our readers will understand the deep significance of the words of the Esta- 
fette ; we are able to add that his majesty, on last Wednesday night, remarked 
to some very distinguished persons who dined at his table, that the lovers of 
order would, within a few days, have cause to be satisfied. We will not assume 
to interpret the imperial words ; our readers, learning of them and aware of 
recent events, will know how to attach to them the very highest value." 



[Enclosure No. 15.] 

Maximilian, emperor of Mexico : 

In consideration of the merits and good qualities of Mr. Friant, chief intend- 
ant of the expeditionary corps, we have been pleased to confer upon him the 
office of minister of finance. 

Given in Mexico the 26th July, 1S66. 

MAXIMILIAN. 

By the emperor : 

JOSE SALAZAR ILARREGUI, 

Minister of Government. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 109 

Maximilian, emperor of Mexico : 

Tn order to save expenses to the public treasury, we have been pleased to di- 
rect that the department of fomento be temporarily annexed to that of gober- 
nacion. 

Our minister of the interior is charged with the execution of this decree. 

Given in Mexico the 2Gth July, 1866. 

MAXIMILIAN. 

By the emperor : 

JOSE SALAZAR ILARREGUI, 

Minister of Government. 



Maximilian, emperor of Mexico : 

In consideration of the merits and good qualities of General Osmont, chief of 
staff and major general of the expeditionary corps, we have been pleased to con- 
fer upon him the office of minister of war. 

Given in Mexico 26th July, 1866. 

MAXIMILIAN. 

By the emperor : 

JOSE SALAZAR ILARREGUI, 

Minister of Government. 



No. 37. 

Mr. Seward to Senor Romero. 

Department of State, 

Washington, August 23, 1866. 
Sir : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of 
the 15th instant, containing certain information extracted from Mexican and New 
York papers, on the subject of the condition of affairs in Mexico up to the end 
of last month, for which be pleased to accept my thanks. 

I avail myself of this opportunity to renew to you the assurances of my most 
distinguished consideration. 

WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 
Senor Don M. Romero, fyc, 8fc, fyc. 



Letter from President Juarez. 

El Paso, December 28, 1865. 
My dear Sir : I have received your favor of the 12th of October, in which 
you acknowledge receipt of mine of l?th of August. You will soon receive, if 
it is not already in your hands, the one I sent you in November, announcing 
the withdrawal of the French from Chihuahua and other points on this frontier, 
and my departure for the capital of this State, where I arrived on the 20th of 
that month. A few days afterwards, however, and without our being able, up 
to the present time, to learn the object of so many marches and countermarches, 
the enemy again commenced a new expedition to reoccupy Chihuahua, which 
took place on the 11th. On the 9th I left there, and on the 18th arrived here 
without incident. By these movements the enemy has in no way improved his sit- 
uation; he is only consuming his .last resources and demoralizing his forces. With 



110 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

the attitude that the government of the United State? lias lately assumed, Max 
imilian lias now not the slightest probability of cementing his so-called throne. 
21c must see very clearly that even should he arrive at the complete conquest of 
the country, occupying with his forces, even to the utmost limits of the republic, 
and destroying the national government, which, however, will never take place, 
the United States will never permit him to consolidate his power, and his sacri- 
fices and his victories will have counted for nothing. This certain result is 
already in the conviction of all. It has augmented the increasing discourage- 
ment of our opponents, and has reanimated the public spirit on our side to such 
an extent that, in my judgment, without the necessity of the United States tak- 
ing any direct part in our war, we shall ourselves alone be able to obtain the 
definitive triumph of the cause of the national independence. Such is my de- 
sire, and to such result all my efforts are directed. Although Napoleon, from 
his pride and the habitual depreciation with which he has treated us, may not 
be ready to propose terms, yet the time is soon coming when he will be glad to 
accept those we proposed before the war. For ourselves, we will neither pro- 
pose nor accept anything, absolutely nothing, which, in the slightest degree, can 
imply any recognition of the intervention, or that may be contrary to the honor 
and dignity of the country. Have but a little patience, and the time will soon 
come when you can return to our country, free at last from all its oppressors. 
Truly, your friend, 

BENITO JUAREZ. 



London, April 29, 1865. 

Sir: I have witnessed with profound admiration and sympathy the heroism 
and energy with which the Mexican people have resisted the criminal and arro- 
gant attempts of the Man of December to impose the yoke of an Austrian ad- 
venturer upon their free and independent country. The outrages perpetrated 
by such "good Catholics and good Christians" as Forey and his murderous 
myrmidons have tarnished the lustre of the French character with the indelible 
stain of lawless inhumanity, but have not surprised those who remember the 
unparalleled effrontry with which he conveyed in felons' vans to loathsome dun- 
geons all that was illustrious aud venerable in his own degraded and down- 
trodden country. At that unhappy and unauspicious epoch (1851) patriotism 
and virtue were relentlessly proscribed, and perjury and recklessness rewarded 
by elevation to the highest honors of the State; unprincipled men were loaded 
■with wealth and titles for daring and deplorable outrages which merited the 
gallows, the guillotine, or the treadmill. Had M. Bonaparte not succeeded, he 
would have been justly sentenced to sweep the streets of Paris in the garb of a 
criminal, instead of drenching them with the blood of the innocent and un- 
armed. 

We must not presume to arraign the decrees of an all-wise and inscrutable 
Providence; but there can be no doubt that the treasons and triumphs of that 
man are more reconcilable with the vengeance than the clemency of the Divine 
Being. He has been an instrument in the hands of the Almighty for loading 
France with debt, corrupting the morals of the rising generation by the exam- 
ple of a prodigal and profligate court, and, to the eternal disgrace of its timid 
and truckling sovereigns, sees Europe at his feet. 

Your undaunted intrepidity and stern defiance, sir, ought to raise a blush on 
the cheeks of these degenerate and degraded monarchs. The perseverence and 
magnanimity with which you have on all occasions found fresh resources under 
defeats and difficulties, and resisted the most criminal and cowardly aggression 
ever attempted by heartless and capricious ambition, entitle you to the respect 
and sympathy of every honorable miud, and your name will hereafter be en- 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. Ill 

rolled among the gallant and glorious champions of national freedom and inde- 
pendence. I have, during several years, been contemplating the sanguinary 
scenes by which the Foreys and Bazaines have brought infamy upon the French 
name with feelings of abhorrence and disgust, and now take the liberty to re- 
quest your acceptance of a pamphlet, in which I have recently endeavored to 
hold up to public scorn their atrocious and unprincipled acts. 

This country is still ringing from one end to the other with the unanimous 
expressions of indignation which the base and brutal murder of President Lin- 
coln was so well calculated to elicit. At the same time, while anxious to do the 
most ample justice to the virtues and services of the late excellent and estimable 
ruler of the great and glorious American republic, I am inclined to hope that 
President Johnson will lose no time in assuming a more decided and determin- 
ate tone in reference to the affairs of Mexico. He is no doubt well aware that 
the Man of December would never have attempted this flagitious and unpardon- 
able outrage had America remained peaceful and united, but that he took a self- 
ish, sinister advantage of her internal divisions to perpetrate an act only sur- 
passed in lawlessness and arrogance by the crime of 1851. This feeling, I re- 
joice to perceive, appears to predominate amongst the American senators, who 
must be convinced that this perfidious and piratical invasion was as much an 
insult to the United States as an outrage upon the Mexican republic. 

1 understand that President Johnson, with his characteristic and outspoken 
manliness, has expressed himself very strongly on this subject, and that the 
enforcement of the Monroe doctrine (of which I cordially approve) will be one 
of the primary objects to which his attention will be directed. American patri- 
ots have a far better right to defend a popular and universally acknowledged 
republic than the Man of December has to force a spurious monarchy upon a 
resisting and exasperated people. I purposely name the Man of December, in- 
stead of doing to a great nation the injustice of ascribing this flagitious act to 
France. 

The French people, with the exception of the tools and toadies of despotism, 
are almost unanimous in repudiating this Quixotic expedition; and I believe 
that the march of an American army of 100,000 men for the liberation of Mex- 
ico would excite such a storm of indignation against the French ruler as would lead 
to his speedy downfall, and restore the blessing of freedom, not only to Mexico, but 
to France itself, which is already beginning to chafe under the arbitrary and per- 
nicious influence of a yoke to which they have too long and too tamely sub- 
mitted. 

I have the honor to remain, with the highest respect for your character, and 
the most cordial wishes for your success, your very obedient and devoted ser- 
vant, 

GEORGE SINCLAIR. 



No. 38. 

Scfior Ro?nero to Mr. Seward. 
[Translation. ] 

Mexican Legation in the United States of America, 

Washington, August 26, 1S66. 
Mr. Secretary : I have the honor to transmit to you, for the information of 
the government of the United States, No. 21 of the official paper of the consti- 
tutional government of the Mexican republic, dated the 20th July last, and con- 
taining a brief and correct account of events in the city of Parral, State of Chi- 
huahua, which occurred in the months of March and April of this year, while 



112 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

the French were in possession of that portion of the country. It will give you 
some idea of the outrages of all kinds committed by the French troops upon a de- 
fenceless and peaceable population, who are guilty before the interventionists of 
the crime of loving their country. 

I am pleased to have this opportunity to renew to you, Mr. Secretary, the as- 
surances of my most distinguished consideration. 

M. ROMERO. 

Hon. William H. Seward, Sfc., Sfc., 8fc. 



[Enclosure No. 1.] 
NOTES FOR THE HISTORY OF THE FRENCH INTERVENTION. 

The decree of the 3d of October was published at Parral on the 2d of March. 
There was a dance that night at Allende, attended mostly by the town people. 
Some of the attendants, excited by the hate they all have for the empire, shouted 
for the republic and disarmed the imperial guard. The greater part of the citi- 
zens then assembled, and, fearing some disturbance, Don Guadalupe Soto, a man 
of note in the place, put himself at the head of the insurgents. 

When troops came from Parral, Soto, having no arms or ammunition, fell back 
to Atotonilco, where he asked aid of Augustin Vasquez to attack the imperial- 
ists, or, at least, to give hiin arms. Vasquez refused, because he had no orders 
from the State governor, with whom he was in communication. 

The prefect of Parral, in the mean time, had published a circular addressed to 
the chief citizens, notifying them to furnish a man mounted and armed, for each 
family, to defend the place. This order was partly obeyed. 

The rural guard and some infantry came from the valley, nnder Guillermo 
Ortiz, to attack Soto, while he was trying to surprise them. The two parties 
met at Amoles Secos, and after a few shots the rustics scattered, and Soto fell 
back with the loss of eighteen prisoners and a few wounded. The imperial 
forces then went back to Parral with the prisoners and arms they had captured. 

About the middle of March Soto again marched to the valley, and had an in- 
terview with Vasquez, who had received orders from General Terrazas to occupy 
Parral. When they had joined, the latter took command of the columu. 

As soon as the prefect of Parral learned that Soto and Vasquez were at El 
Valle he assembled the rural guard and, on the evening of the 20th, issued an 
order for all the inhabitants to assemble, armed, at eight o'clock, under penalty 
of the decree of the 3d of October. Nobody obeyed the order. 

The next day, at two o'clock, another order was published, commanding those 
who had not responded to the call of the day previous to send two armed men 
to the prefecture at six o'clock that evening, else be subjected to a fine of two 
hundred or two thousand dollars and be condemned to public works from one to 
six months. In spite of the severity of these penalties very few persons obeyed 
the order. 

On the 22d, at noon, the advance of the imperialists heard that the troops of 
Vasquez and Soto had passed Alamillo. The imperial troops sallied out at 
once to attack the assaulters from the cemetery heights. The rural guard scat- 
tered. The force that had remained in the palace also dispersed. They were 
composed of a few armed men commanded by some merchants. A few soldiers 
remained in the Rayo church, guarding the Valle prisoners. About two in the 
afternoon the battle began in the edge of the town. The assaulters were in two col- 
umns. That under Vasquez entered the St. Nicolas side, while Soto's, driving 
back the enemy, came in by the Rayo church. 

Bonifacio Pavia, the commander, falling back, tried to reach the palace, but 
he fell near the market, before he got to the square. Commander Ortiz, some 






CONDITION OF AFFAIES IN MEXICO. 113 

distance behind Pavia, could not come up with him, and fell back to the Rayo 
church. Vasquez, wishing to save life, sent a flag of parley to Commander Or- 
tiz. Vicente Ochoa had charge of it. He took a white flag and started towards 
the church. When Ortiz recognized Ochoa he came out to meet him. Hostil- 
ities were suspended while the terms of capitulation were arranged between Or- 
tiz and Vasquez at the house of the latter. The chiefs signed the capitulation 
at six o'clock in the evening. By it Ortiz was allowed to retire with the eigh- 
teen men he had left as an escort for four days. The men who surrendered re- 
fused to follow their commander, so he had to leave alone, after giving up the 
eighteen arms. 

The next day Vasquez, as civil chief of the district, proceeded to appoint con- 
stitutional authorities. 

News of the capture of Chihuahua was received on the 27 th, and the city was 
illuminated the next night. 

On the 30th news reached us that a French force had arrived at Cerro 
Gordo, but the number of men was not ascertained. That day Vasquez asked 
two thousand dollars of the merchants, to be paid the next day. 

On the 31st the town was alarmed, at seven and a half at night, by some 
shots in the direction, of Rayo hill. It was an express meseenger from Rio 
Florida, bringing the news that 831 French had reached that place. The 
constitutional forces fell back towards Chihuahua. 

On the 2d of April, at half past ten in the morning, 381 French and some of 
the scattered imperialists of Chihuahua and Parral, under Alvisi, came into the 
town. He went to several houses to hunt quarters for his officers, and threatened 
and insulted the owners and persons living in them, without even regard for the 
ladies. 

On the 3d a meeting of the city council was called to compel the people to 
restore the beds and cots the French had left in the hospital when they quit the 
place. These beds had been furnished by the merchants of the place. 

On the 4th the house of Jose M. Munoz was destroyed, his goods, furniture, 
and clothing burned, only because some drunken men and low women said he 
shot Pavia from the door of his house. This sentence was executed without 
the least investigation of the case, either by a civil court or military authority. 
On the same day the civil prefect put out the following circular : 

Hidalgo, April 4, 1866. 
The commander in chief of the French forces orders that all merchants and 
important personages of the city assemble in the Council Hall, fronting on the 
public square, at two o'clock to-morrow, without fail. Those unable to attend 
from absence, sickness, or other causes, will send substitutes, with their excuses. 
Those who refuse to attend will be arrested and imprisoned, and their property 
confiscated ; and if they desert, their houses will be burned. 

INOCENTE RUBIO, Prefect. 
FRANCISCO HOLGUIN, Secretary. 

The meeting did not take place on the 5th, on account of the absence of some 
of those summoned, and was postponed to the 6th. At noon an that day they 
were all present but two. The colonel ordered the list to be read, and made the 
following remarks : 

" Gentlemen : I will be brief with you, thai you may return to your business. 
I regret I have not the eloquence of Periera, the highwayman, when he spoke in 
this hall, and said : ' The French are quitting the country, and it will not be 
necessary for us to come back here ;' but we promised to come, and we have 
kept our word. I am sorry the people did not obey the orders of the prefect, 

S MEX. 



114 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

but Lave shown a preference for the bandits, for those who come here as robbers. 
They came to rob and pillage, and if they did not commit all sorts of outrages, 
it was because their leaders had hard work to prevent them. The merchants 
will not aid brave men to defend them from robbers ; will not furnish arms, 
while they gave the robbers all they wanted. Some person gave twenty-five 
arms, and some merchants helped them, by shooting the loyalists in the back 
I know the names and rank of those persons, but I do not now mention them, 
because I have no proof; when I have, they shall be shot in the public square. 
I know of others who told the enemy of my movements. 1 know their names, 
and will tell them to remember I shot Esquibel at Rio Florido, for informing 
the enemy of my movements. 

" It is said that Terrazas is coming to attack us. Terrazas may be a man of 
courage, but his men are all robbers, no better than those who left here. Let 
them come ; it is just what we want. If they come, Ave will show them we can 
defend ourselves, and that we will never surrender. If I find it necessary, I 
will take possession of private houses, and make every citizen take up arms in 
his own defence. 

" General Castagny has ordered me to impose a loan of forty thousand dol- 
lar's upon this place, to be paid within twenty -four hours; but, as I know it 
would be hard to raise that sum in so short a time, I grant three days for its 
payment. 

" The contributions will be apportioned according to the wealth of each indi- 
vidual, and his behavior. I know how some have behaved. A committee, 
composed of the civil prefect, president of the council, and revenue collector is 
assigned to the duty of assessing the contributions. The money so collected is 
to pay the imperial forces of the sixth military division. No person is exempt 
from this contribution, fori am in the habit of carrying out the orders I receive, 
and I warn every one to contribute according to his means. 

" Those who refuse to pay will be imprisoned ; their goods, furniture, and 
clothes will be sold at public auction, and if there are no bidders, which is very 
likely to be, they shall be burned in the street. Besides this contribution, the 
whole town must pay two thousand dollars for the support of the families of 
those who died in defence of the empire, and it shall be distributed by the head 
of the revenue. All persons having arms fit for the service of the rural guards 
shall give them up within twenty -four hours, under a severe penalty. No one 
need try to hide the arms, for a domiciliary search shall be made." 

This sum was collected from the liberals ; not one interventionist was taxed ! 
The contributions were high, compared to the wealth of the inhabitants. Per- 
sons, whose capital was chiefly in credits were taxed two thousand dollars. 
One man was fined two thousand dollars for giving a ball and not inviting the 
intervention authorities ; and this was before Vasquez took possession of the 
place. Another man was fined for beckoning the besiegers with his hat from 
the house-top ; others, because they were said to have furnished arms to the 
enemy ; some for lodging liberal chiefs in their houses ; and all for false in- 
formation attributed on account of their known political principles. 

Some, thinking their taxes too onerous, attempted remonstrance, but they 
were not listened to. After all, only $32,080 were raised. It was impossible 
to pay this in gold and silver, so copper coin was taken at six per cent, ad- 
ditional. 

By five o'clock on the evening of the 10th the money was paid, and very 
few deductions were made from the original quotas. Out of three who refused 
to pay, one was put in jail, two ran off", and the furniture and clothes of all were 
burned in the streets. Deducting this loss, only $33,000 was collected, much 
of it in copper. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO, 1 L5 

On the eleventh, three companies of infantry were sent to Valle and Atoto- 
nilco. Five thousand dollars was assessed on the former of these places, and 
this notice was stuck up : 

"PUBLIC NOTICE. 

" Colonel Alvisi, commander of Parral, having heard that it is the hahit of 
the people of this town to shout for the liberals, and insult the constituted 
authorities whenever the French forces are not present, and that the public 
mails have been stopped — now as this conduct is intolerable, I have been 
ordered to remedy these evils in a summary way, and I therefore warn the 
inhabitants of this district that, if the authorities are again insulted, the mails 
interrupted, or treasonable language used publicly, the town shall be burned, 
the fruit trees cut down, and the severest punishment inflicted upon the guilty 
persons. 

" For general information, I order this notice to be published in triplicate, in 
the most public places. 

•'< Town of Allende, April 16, 1S66. 

" DIDIER, 
'' Commander of the Town." 

Atotonilco wat, almost totally destroyed by fire ; only a few hours were allowed 
to the citizens to take out a few things for personal use. As the time was so 
short, not much was saved from the devouring element. 

A portion of this force went to Talamante3, and the rest took the road to Itur- 
ralde. The first division commenced by burning Bruno Soto's house, and the 
family could get nothing out of it. Provisions, furniture, clothing, everything 
was burned. When the fire had taken well, the troops withdrew. 

The troops that went to Iturralde surrounded Urquidi's houses, at a dis- 
tance, and marched up. The French commander arrested the Urquidis and 
took them to Parral, where they were imprisoned in the centre of the town, allow- 
ing no communication except with relatives, who must have a special permit. 
They have not been informed of the cause of their imprisonment. 

On the 16th it was reported that General Terrazas was at Santa Rosalia with 
his whole force. At this the French redoubled their vigilance, collected pro- 
visions and water, and most of the inhabitants went into the country. 

In three days the panic was over, and the families returned to their houses 

in town. 

jq - * * t- * 

Parral, April 20, 1866. 



No. 39. 

• Mr. Hunter to Senor Romero. 

Department of State, 

Washington, August 30, 1866. 
Sir : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of 
the 26th instant, containing No. 21 of the official paper of your government, for 
which be pleased to accept my thanks. 

I avail myself of this opportunity to renew to you the assurances of my most 
distinguished consideration. 

W. HUNTER. 
Senor Don M. Romero, Sp., fc.. Sfc. 



116 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 



No. 40. 

Senor Romero to Mr. Seivard. 
[Translation.] 

Mexican Legation in the United States of America, 

Washington, August 27, 1866. 

Mi. Secretary : I have the honor to transmit to you, for the information of 
the government of the United States, the documents expressed in the annexed 
index, which I received from the city of Mexico by the last Vera Cruz steamer, 
showing the situation of affairs in the portion of Mexico groaning under the 
rule established by the intervention. 

I call your attention to a circular in French, addressed by the usurper Ferdi- 
nand Maximilian to various French agents, about the end of July last, which 
places beyond doubt, if there ever was any, that the so-called imperial govern- 
ment is not, nor ever has been, anything else than a French military govern- 
ment. 

Moreover, what the French papers say of Jalapa and of the valley of Toluca 
is equally applicable to all that portion of the Mexican republic occupied by the 
invading army. • 

I embrace the occasion to renew to you, Mr. Secretary, the assurances of my 
most distinguished consideration. 

M. ROMERO. 

Hon. William H. Seward, fyc;, Sfc., fyc. 



Index of documents sent by the Mexican legation in Washington to the Depart- 
ment of State of the United States, with the note of this date, on the state of 
affairs in the city of Mexico. 




Contents. 



Circular from the private cabinet of the usurper, Maximilian, to the French 

employes, explaining its policy. 
Decree of the usurper declaring the State of Michoacan to be in a state of 

siege. 
Decree of the usurper declaring the States of Puebla, Tlaxcala, and part 

of Vera Cruz to be in a state of siege. 
Decree of the usurper placing the police force under command of a French 

officer. 
Decree of Don J. Calderon declaring Jalapa to be in a state of siege. 
An article from the Estafette, the organ of the French army in Mexico, on 

the situation in Jalapa. 
A private letter in the Estafette on the situation in the valley of Toluca. 
An article from the Pajaro Verde, an intervention paper in Mexico, stating 

that the eighty -first regiment of the line of the French army will remain 

in Mexico at the service of the usurper. 



Washington, August 27, 1866. 



C. EOMERO, 

Attache to the Legation. 



[Enclosure No. 1.] 

On the eve of the departure of the French troops, while the country is in an- 
ticipation of trouble, the emperor has been solicited to make some reforms; but 
faithful to his antecedents, which have been badly represented, only taking coun- 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 117 

sel of his conscience and his devotion to his people and the policy of the Em- 
peror Napoleon in America, his majesty has rejected everything that seems 
to oppose his intimate alliance with France. He has always desired, and still 
desires, that the great conception of European and Mexican patriotism that pro- 
duced the empire may be accomplished. As he is not moved by any consider- 
ation of personal interest or vain renown, his sacrifice to duty will always be 
easy. 

His ideas, his creed, his policy, all have been, affirmed by acts which place 
their author in perfect accord with French ideas. ~ 

The cabinet has been modified General Osmont and Intendant Friant have 
been taken into it, yet remaining at the head of their respective services in the 
expeditionary corps, the former as minister of war and the latter as minister of 
finance. Mr. Salazar Uarregui, the firm and constant partisan of intervention, 
keeps the portfolio of the interior. The other departments, of secondary im- 
portance, are put in charge of under secretaries of state. 

The emperor's policy is explicitly set forth in the following passage in a letter 
which he addressed to Mr. Salazar Uarregui : 

" My programme is simply this : energy with and protection to houest peaceful 
people at home ; an intimate alliance with France abroad. I know these are 
your ideas, too, and I depend on your patriotism to carry them out." 

What could Le more positive and more simple ! Such a declaration admits of 
no comment. To discuss it would be to weaken it. 

We have nothing more to add except that it borrows a new strength from 
the letter of the emperor to Marshal Bazaine, informing him of the chauge he 
had effected in the mechanism of his government. 

The emperor of Mexico places all the disposable resources for the pacification 
of the country into the hands of the commander-in-chief of the French expedi- 
tionary corps. He delegates much of his authority to him in allowing him to 
declare a siege and to discharge officials whom he may consider incompetent, 
and to replace them by others. 

Thus the door is closed to every ambiguity, mistake, or accusation of declared 
enemies, or flattery of pretended friends. 

The emperor Maximilian, constant in a line of conduct that history will re- 
veal in its true light, has given, of his own accord; the best guarantee he could 
offer to France. His good will and self-denial will be justly appreciated by the 
eminent statesmen who participate in the councils of Napoleon ; and we may 
say even now that the situation, all embarrassing elements being removed, will 
be safe if everybody follows the exalted example and does his own duty. 



[Enclosure No. 2.] 

Maximilian, emperor of Mexico : 

Considering that the departments of Michoacan and Tancitaro are now threat- 
ened by bands of malefactors that disturb order, destroy property, terrify the 
people, and disturb that tranquillity and security that reigns in the centre of the 
empire ; considering it is our duty to protect and give aid to all the citizens in 
every way within our power, and by every means allowed by law ; in accord- 
ance with the decree of the 16th of September, 1865, and with the opinion of 
our council of ministers, we decree as follows : 

Article 1. The departments of Michoacan and Tancitaro are declared to be 
in a state of siege. 

Art. 2. General Menclez is charged with the commandof those departments : 
the first is temporarily withdrawn from the 1st military division, and the second 
from the 4th. 



118 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

Art. 3. In conformity with powers granted by the decree of the 16th Sep- 
tember, 1865, article 4, the towns will preeerve their organizations in order to 
carry out the commands of the military authorities. 

Art. 4. Two councils of war shall be established in the territory under com- 
mand of General Mendez. 

Our ministers of war and government are charged with the execution of the 
present decree in its corresponding parts. 

Given in Mexico the 30th oftjuly, 1S66. 

MAXIMILIAN. 

By the emperor : 

JOSE SALAZAR ILARREGUI, 

Minister of Government. 
AD. OSMONT, Ministar of War. 



[Enclosure No. 3.] 

Maximilian, emperor of Mexico : 

Considering that the departments of Tuxpan and Tulancingo as well as the 
district of Zacatlan, in the department of Tlaxcala, are threatened by bands of 
malefactors ; considering that this disturbance is caused by persons who favor 
smuggling to the injury of the nation in general and of its citizens ; considering 
it is our duty to keep peace in those localities by every means in our power 
which the law provides, and to put a stop to this robbery of the public treasury, 
by the decree of the 16th September, 1865, and the opinion of our council of 
ministers, we decree as follows : 

Article 1. The departments of Tuxpan and Tulancingo, as well as the 
district of Zacatlan, in the department of Tlaxcala, are declared to be in a 
state of siege. 

Article 2. Brigadier General Count Thun is charged with the exclusive 
command of these departments and the district, with his headquarters at Tul- 
ancingo. 

Article 3. A couucil of war shall be established at Tulancingo. 

Article 4. In conformity with powers granted by the decree of the 16th 
September, 1865, article 4, the towns will preserve their organizations in order 
to carry out the commands of the military authorities. 

Our ministers of war and government are charged with the execution of the 
present decree in its corresponding parts. 

Given in Mexico, on the 30th July, 1866. 

MAXIMILIAN. 

By the emperor : 

JOSE SALAZAR ILARREGUI, 

Minister of Government. 
AD. OSMONT, Minister of War. 






[Enclosure No. 4 ] 
Maximilian, emperor of Mexico : 

Having heard our council of ministers, and considering the inertia of public 
affairs in the empire ; knowing it is our first and greatest duty to protect per- 
sons and property, and punish disturbers of the public peace, and desiring to 
concentrate the imperial police under one chief, we have decreed as follows : 

Article 1. The police is directly subject to our minister of government. 

Article 2. Wherever there is a force of gendarmery, the municipal police 
shall be under it, giving aid to and receiving orders therefrom. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO 119 

Article 3. Baron Tindal, lieutenant colonel of gendarmery, is hereby named 
director for the valley of Mexico, and especially charged with the public safety. 

Article 4. He is also invested with plenary powers to execute the duties of 
his office. Our minister of government is charged with the execution of this 
decree. 

Given in the palace of Mexico, on the 30th July, 1866. 

MAXIMILIAN. 

By the emperor: 

JOSE SALAZAR LLARREGUL 

Minister of Government. 



[Enclosure No. 5. ] 
WARNING. 

Jalapa, August 1, 1866. 

On account of recent events General Oalderon has been pleased to issue the 
following notice : 

General Juan Oalderon, supreme commander in the districts of Vera Cruz 
and Jalapa, makt3 known to the inhabitants of the latter city, that as the place 
is threatened by enemies of the government of his imperial majesty, and it be- 
ing my duty to preserve order and public peace at all risks, I have been pleased 
to order the observance of the following regulations from this time forward : 

1. After sunset no person is permitted to ride through the city on horseback, 
except those in military service and on duty, and the police. 

2. All assemblages of more than two persons, of those known publicly as 
hostile to the present government, are hereby prohibited. 

3. Violation of the above regulations shall be punished as the police laws 
declare. 

J. OALDERON. 



[Enclosure No. 6. — Extract from the Sociedad, Mexico, August 8, 1866.] 

The Estafette published yesterday these brief but alarming lines : 

"From Matamoras to Alvarado the whole eastern coast is in revolt. Tampico 
is held by the rebels ; the robbers threaten the gates of Vera Cruz; Jalapa is be- 
sieged, and the treasury is empty. 

"In this emergency the only alternative for the government is to raise money 
or break up." 

The same paper publishes this letter of the 3d August, from Jalapa : 

"Your last letter reached me by the merest accident, and it is one of the few 
that have come through the rebel bands that surround the" city, and have inter- 
cepted every communication for the last twelve days. 

"News from the city of Mexico has somewhat revived the dejected citizens, 
for they were much discouraged by rumors of danger threatening the capital. 

"Nobody has ventured out of town for some days. The enemy, of four or 
five hundred at least, approach the town and fire upon harmless citizens, 
and then go back to their camp only a league off, certain they will not be 
pursued. In fact, General Oalderon, commander here, has not enough forces to 
defend the place, and we hear of no re-enforcements. 

" On the other hand, a new revolution is whispered, and if it breaks out you 
may imagine what will become of Jalapa. 

" Chacon is on the south of the city, Ochoa on the west, and Murieta on the 
northwest, with forces of 150 or 200 men each." 



120 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

[Enclosure No. 7.— Extract from the Sociedad, Mexico, August 5, 1866.] 

TLc Era, Bpeaking of the bad situation of the valley of Toluca, publishes the 
following paragraphs from a letter dated in Tenancingo, the 1st of August: 

"The people of Zacualpan are more lucky than us in getting Juan Lechuga, 
the former sub-prefect, restored to his old place. 

"We are in constant alarm here, feafing every moment the rebels from San 
Gaspar may come down upon us in considerable numbers. The danger is im- 
minent, and I myself had to go to inform the authorities of Toluca of it. 

" The whole valley of Toluca is in a deplorable condition, and it could not be 
otherwise. If the government does not attend to them soon, the robbers will 
ruin all the farms that furnish the capital with grain. This is the result of the 
machinations of certain men since the French military authorities left Toluca." 



[Enclosure No. 8. — Extract from the Pajaro Verde. Mexico, August 1, 1866.] 
Eighty-first regiment of the line. 

A French soldier assures us the above regiment is allowed to return to France 
in November; bnt as all can stay who wish, only the colonel and the band of 
music will go back. 

We are not responsible for the above communication. 



No. 41. 
Mr. Hunter to Senor Romero. 

Department of State, 

Washington, August 30, 18G6. 
Sir : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of 
the 27th instant, containing certain documents relative to the state of affairs in 
some portions of Mexico, for which be pleased to accept my thanks. 

I avail myself of this opportunity to renew to you the assurances of my most 
distinguished consideration. 

W. HUNTER. 
Senor Don Matias Romero, $r., Sfc, 8fc. 



No. 42. 

Mr. Frederick W. Seward to Senor Romero. 

[Unofficial.] 

Department of State, 

Washington, Seplejnber 20, 1866. 
Dear Sir : I have noticed in a St. Louis newspaper a letter alleged to be 
from some point on the frontier, stating that the Marquis de Montholon, who 
is supposed to be a son of the French minister here, had been taken prisoner 
in the State of Durango, and shot by his captors. If you should have received 
any information upon this subject, I will thank you for it. 
I am, very truly, yours, 

F. W. SEWARD, 

Acting Secretary 
Senor Don M. Romero, tyc, Sfc., Sfc. 



: 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 12 1 

[No. 43.] 
Senor Romero to Mr. Frederick W. Seward. 

, [Unofficial. ] 

Mexican Legation, 

Washington, September 20, 1866. 
Dear Sir : In answer to your unofficial note of this date informing me that 
" you have noticed in a St. Louis paper a letter alleged to be from some point 
on the frontier, stating that the Marquis de Montholon, who is supposed to be a 
son of the French minister here, had been taken prisoner in the State of Du- 
rango, and shot by his captors," and asking me to communicate to you any in- 
formation I might have received upon the subject, I have to say that I have 
received, as yet, no information on the matter. Should I receive any, I will be 
very glad to transmit it to you. If it should be agreeable to you I will ask 
home for reliable information about that intelligence. 

I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

M. ROMERO. 
Hon. Frederick W. Seward, Sfc., Sfc., fyc. 



No 44. 

Mr. Frederick W. Seward to Senor Romero. 
[Unofficial.] 

Department of State, 

Washington, September 21, 1866. 
Dear Sir : I have received your unofficial note of yesterday, and thank you 
for your offer to write home for correct information upon the subject to which it 
relates. That information would be very acceptable to this department. 
I am, dear sir, very truly yours, 



F. W. SEWARD. 



Senor Don M.Romero, Sfc., Sfc., 



No. 45. 

Senor Romero to Mr. Frederick W. Seward. 

■ [Unofficial.] 

Mexican Legation, 
Washington, September 21, 1866. 

Dear Sir : I have the honor of acknowledging the receipt of your unofficial 
note of this date, in which you request me to ask home for correct information 
on the subject of your unofficial note of yesterday. It will afford me great 
pleasure to do so by to-morrow's mail. 

I am, dear sir, very truly, your obedient servant, 

M. ROMERO. 
Hon. Frederick W. Seward, Sfc, fyc, $c. 



122 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

No. 46. 

Scnor Romero to Mr. Frederick W. Seward. 
[Translation.] 

Legation of Mexico in the United States, of America, 

Washington, September 23, 1866. 
My Dear Sir: I have the honor to communicate to you that in a letter 
dated Vera Cruz, the 12th instant, addressed to me by a gentleman upon whom 
I can rely, it is stated that the steamer Panama, of the San Nazaire line, arrived 
at that port on the 10th instant, having on board one hundred and thirty recruits 
for the French army invading Mexico. 

I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

M. ROMERO. 
Frederick W. Seward, Esq., fyc, 8fc., Sfc. 

(Acknowledged October 2, 1866.) 



Senor Romero to Mr. Frederick W. Seward. 

Washington, September 23, 1866. 
My Dear Sir : Having noticed that the New York papers published ac- 
counts, not always correct, of the incidents regarding Mexico, wbich took place 
during the last trip of the President of the United States to Chicago, (having 
myself had the honor of being one of the party,) I enclose to you', with a view 
that it will be filed in the archives of the State Department, a short, and in my 
opinion, correct statement of those incidents, which was published in Spanish in 
the Voz de America, of New York, of the 20th instant. 

I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 



M. ROMERO. 



Hon. Frederick W. Seward, Sfc., fyc., fyc. 






[Enclosure No. 1. — Translation.] 

Falls of Niagara, September 2, 1866. 

The cause of Mexican nationality is at this time the object of demonstrations 
highly significative on the part of the people and government of the United 
States, which we propose to relate for the information of the readers of La Voz 
de America in that portion which has until the present time come to our knowl- 
edge. 

It is known that among the personages who accompany President Johnson 
on his journey from Washington to Chicago to attend at the ceremony of laying 
the corner-stone of a monument about to be erected to the memory of Senator 
Douglas is Mr. Romero, minister from Mexico. Probably in inviting him the 
President had in view to manifest to the people of the United States that he 
holds as the programme of his policy the reconstruction of the Union in the one 
hand and the Monroe doctrine in the other. 

At the great banquet which various persons of the city of New York gave to 
President Johnson on the 29th of August last, in honor of his passage through 
the city, the committee charged with the arrangements for the dinner, in proof 
of deference to the great sympathy which the people of this country entertain 
for the cause of Mexico, invited Mr. Romero, giving him a distinguished place 
on the platform which was prepared for the President and his cabiuet. In order 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 123 

to give greater significance to this demonstration Baron de Stoeckl, minister of 
Russia, who was accidentally in New York, was also invited. 

We will pass over all the details of the banquet in order to reach what con- 
cerns Mexico and the Monroe doctrine. 

The mayor of New York, Mr. Hoffman, who, as representing the city, pre- 
sided at the dinner, toasted, first, the President of the United States, then his 
cabinet, after that the army and navy, represented by General Grant and Ad- 
miral Farragut, who were present, and lastly proposed the toast which follows : 

'' Gentlemen, there are this evening among us, honoring us with their presence, 
the representatives of friendly powers, which entertain sincere sympathy with 
the United States. I therefore propose to you that we toast the friendly nations 
which truly sympathize with the American Union and heartily desire its peace 
and prosperity." 

This toast was received with great and enthusiastic acclamations. Mr. Ro- 
mero left it to Baron de Stoeckl to reply to it, as well because he was an elder 
member of the diplomatic body as because he represented the principal of the 
two nations alluded to. The minister of Russia did so in befitting and oppor- 
tune manner ; but the auditory was not satisfied with that, and by acclamation 
called on Mr. Romero to speak. He, being invited by the President and other 
distinguished persons who were about him, and being also desirous to satisfy 
the wishes of the meeting, rose from his chair and spoke thus : 

" Gentlemen : At such an advanced hour of the night (twelve o'clock) I shall 
not attempt to make a formal speech ; besides I suffer from the slight inconve- 
nience of not knowing your language so well as I would. It will seem strange 
to you, gentlemen, that an American should not speak English ; but it is a fact, 
and I call myself an American because I do not admit your right to monopolize 
a name which belongs to all who are born on this continent, although they may 
be citizens of nations to the southward of the United States. Your distinguished 
mayor has proposed, and you have accepted with very flattering demonstrations, 
a toast to the nations friendly to the United States, who heartily desire the peace 
and prosperity of the American Union, and in so doing it seems it was the wish 
to allude especially to Russia and to Mexico. In so far as the first nation is 
concerned her distinguished representative has responded in terms which I doubt 
not have left you well pleased. As for Mexico, I do not think it necessary to 
assure you that your mayor has not mistaken in supposing her to be a nation 
friendly to the United States, which truly sympathizes with the American Union, 
and heartily desires its peace and prosperity. We, gentlemen, who have set 
before us your example as the model for attaining the aggrandizement of our 
country, and intend to follow it as far as possible, can do no less than desire the 
peace and prosperity of your country. We believe that the improvement and 
welfare of the human race depend, in a great degree, on the consolidation and 
progress of the form of government established here by your fathers. It appears 
to us, besides, that, in a certain manner, more or less direct, our peace and tran- 
quility and our future progress depend upon the good result of the great exper- 
iment which you are testing. We have reason, therefore, to desire with earnest- 
ness the good result of your noble undertaking. Perhaps it may seem strange, 
but it is no less a fact, that the important victories gained in the territory of the 
United States by the distinguished General Grant and his compeer, Admiral 
Farragut, to whom allusions have this, evening been made equally flattering and 
well deserved, victories whose immediate result was the triumph of the Union 
over its domestic enemies, have contributed also to disconcert its foreign adver- 
saries by improving, in a great degree, the condition of Mexico, which an am- 
bitious despot had endeavored to convert into a basis for his future movements 
against the United States. 

" We desire, therefore,, most zealously that the government of the United 



124 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

States may continue to pursue with Bteadfasl Btepa the work it lias eoramenced 
under such good auspices ; that it may soon be free of foreign enemies, as it al- 
ready is of domestic lues: and that, by strengthening its institutions and pro- 
gressing under their shelter, as has been done thus far, we may be enabled to 
follow out its wonderful example." 

This address, interrupted by frequent applause, closed amid enthusiastic cheers 
and demonstrations of approbation. We will also pass over the demonstrations 
of secondary character, which were made in favor of .Mexico at various places 
on the route, to arrive at those which took place on the olst at Auburn, the 
residence of Mr. Seward, and the place where he has made all the revelations 
of his policy. 

When the President and those who accompanied him arrived at Seward park, 
where the mayor of Auburn gave a formal reception to him, in presence of the 
people of the city, Mr. Seward, according to the English custom, presented to 
the people the most notable persons in the company, and on coming to Mr. Ro- 
mero said as follows : 

" This, gentlemen, is Mr. Romero, minister of the United States of Mexico, in 
whose behalf, and against the destruction of whose country, the President of the 
United States has given notice that intervention from abroad must cease on the 
first of November next." 

This announcement was received with great enthusiasm. 

From Seward park the company adjourned to the shores of Owasco lake, 
where a well-served dinner awaited them. 

During dinner General Grant rose, and, in reply to a toast from Mr. Seward 
to the army and navy of the United States, proposed another to the health of 
Mr. Romero, minister of Mexico, and the successful issue of the noble cause he 
represents. To which Mr. Romero replied in the following manner : 

" Gentlemen : At all times it is embarrassing for me to speak in public, and 
in a foreign language, but it is much more so when I have to address an auditory 
so distinguished as the present, but the desire to express my fervent thanks for 
the very cordial manner in which I have been received in this city, and for the 
various and flattering allusions which have been made to my country and her 
sacred cause, decides me to comply with the duty of manifesting to you my 
gratitude for your repeated kindnesses. My distinguished friend, the honorable 
Secretary of State, seated on my right, thought proper to disclose at the dinner 
given to the President at the city of New York, some cabinet secrets, and with 
this conduct I am encouraged and authorized to disclose some diplomatic secrets. 
The Secretary of State revealed to us four secrets as I remember, and I, timidly 
following his example, will reveal only one. It is about four weeks ago that the 
Secretary of State officially informed me at the Department of State that the 
President of the United States would go to Chicago for the purpose of honoring 
the memory of a distinguished North American statesman, and added, by direc- 
tion of the President, that he would be gratified if I would accompany him. 
At once, and with pleasure, I accepted the invitation, as I am always pleased to 
avail myself of the opportunities presented to me to manifest my great esteem 
and respect for the people of this great nation by rendering honor to its official 
representative, the President of the United States. 

" In this way I have come from Washington in such good company, and in truth 
I have been more than satisfied with the excursion, which has given me the 
means better to appreciate this wonderful country, its people, and its institutions. 

'' Before concluding, I beg I may be allowed to propose another toast, which, 
although it has been already given, will now have the novelty of coming from one 
who is not a citizen of the United States, but the representative of a friendly 
and sister nation of the United States, identified with them, and desirous, as the 
most so, for its peace and prosperity. This toast is for the prosperity of the 
United States, the health and welfare of the President and his cabinet, of Gen- 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 125 

eral Grant, commander of the army, and of Admiral Farragut, commanding the 
navy, government, army, and navy, that have contributed to improve the con- 
dition of Mexico, and which will, in a great degree, contribute to that result, so 
desirable to the Mexican people." 

This reply, as well as the other allusions to Mexico, were received with great 
enthusiasm. 

On another occasion.we shall relate more of what occurred respecting Mexico, 
up to the end of the journey. 



[Enclosure No. 2.] 

Chicago, Illinois, September 7, 1866. 

Continuing the relation of what occurred respecting Mexico in President 
Johnson's journey from Niagara to this city, I will say that on the morning of 
the 3d instant the company left Niagara for Buffalo, a city of above one hun- 
dred thousand inhabitants, in the State of New York, where a large crowd was 
waiting for Mr. Johnson, who was received by ex-President Fillmore and intro- 
duced to the people. Mr. Seward was next presented, and he then introduced 
Mr. Romero as the minister of the Mexican republic. After the applause with 
which he was received had subsided, the Secretary of State proposed three 
cheers for the republic of Mexico, and they were given with a will by the 
assembled multitude. Some one said in an audible voice that if Mexico wanted 
soldiers the United States would furnish them in plenty, and the remark was 
applauded. 

Mr. Romero was presented to the people who assembled to welcome the 
President at Dunkirk and other places along the route, Mr. Seward or some of 
the local authorities officiating, and the enthusiasm everywhere shown for the 
Mexican cause was only surpassed by that shown everywhere for General 
Grant. 

At one of the stopping-places where the President made a speech, to save 
time, the presentations were made in pairs : Mr. Seward and General Grant ; 
Mr. Welles, Secretary of the Navy, and Admiral Farragut ; Mr. Romero and 
Mr. Randall, Postmaster General. 

On the night of the 3d the company reached Cleveland, a populous city of 
Ohio, on the shore of Lake Erie. Here, also, Mr. Romero was presented to the 
crowd assembled in front of the hotel, and the name of his country was received 
with the greatest enthusiasm. 

On the morning of the 4th the President left Cleveland, and arrived in De- 
troit that night, stopping on the way at Fremont, Ashtabula, Toledo, and 
others, all thriving cities in the State of Ohio. The train stopped for dinner at 
Toledo. The customary presentations were made at those stations, and Mr. 
Romero was received in the name of his country with great enthusiasm every- 
where. At Toledo, Mr. Porter, who received the President, said in his speech 
that the citizens of Toledo were anxious to aid in overthrowing the so-called 
throne of Maximilian. On reaching Monroe, in Michigan, the home of General 
Custer, who came with the President from New York, and has often expressed 
himself publicly in favor of the Monroe doctrine and the cause of Mexico, Mr. 
Romero was presented by him to the people, who gave three cheers for the 
republic of Mexico with great spontaneity and unanimity. 

The President and Mr. Seward spoke in Detroit. During the speech of the 
latter he was asked by one present if he would sustain the Monroe doctrine. 
Mr. Seward said, " Yes, sir ; I will sustain it as far as a broken jaw will allow 
me." He very likely alluded to the present differences of opinion, which will 
be settled by the coming fall elections. 



126 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

The company left Detroit on the 5th for this city. There were several intro- 
ductions on the way, at one of which the Mexican minister was received with 
great applause, ami three cheers were given for that republic, while Mr. John- 
son's speech was received quite calmly. This was noticed by Mr. Seward, who 
said in his speech lie hoped the people of that place were not more interested in 
the Mexican republic than they were in their own country. 

The company arrived in this city the night before last, The majority of the 
inhabitants here seemed opposed to the President. He was not received by 
the local authorities', nor was a dinner offered him, and he had no opportunity 
to address the people. 

The corner-stone of the Douglas monument was laid yesterday. It was for 
this the President came to Chicago. Mr. Johnson and his parly attended the 
ceremony, but there was no especial demonstration in his favor. 

The President determined to visit St. Louis and other cities, which will pro- 
long his journey and increase his distance from AVashington. For this reason 
Mr. Romero concluded not to go to St. Louis, though urgently invited by Mr. 
Johnson and Mr. Seward, particularly as he was broken down by the fatigues 
of the previous week. As he had accepted the President's invitation to attend 
the ceremony in this city, and as he had with great difficulty complied with it, 
he did not wish to risk the fatigues of another journey, which in all probability 
he could not stand. Put it is certain his presence will not be required to excite 
demonstrations in favor of his country from the American people, wherever the 
President goes. 



[Enclosure No. 3. — From La Voz de America, No. 27. ] 

New York, September 20, 1SG6. 

SOLUTION OF THE MEXICAN (lUESTION. 

We think those who turn their eyes to France for the study of the solution 
of the Mexican question are mistaken. The solution is determined ; it had its 
origin in Washington, and it shows the existence of the Monroe doctrine. 

No matter what an English paper says about Napoleon's delay in recalling 
troops from Mexico in January that ought to leave in November, according to 
the Emperor's declarations and promises, no matter if a paper here says Car- 
lotta has attained her wishes in Paris, things will not change till the United 
States give the deciding vote. 

As to particulars of the crumbling of the imperial structure, there is no 
doubt about the slowness of the monarch who undertakes to regulate the equi- 
librium of the world. He must take care of his influence or Mr. Seward will 
attack his flank as well as his front. In fact he has already done so during the 
presidential visit to Chicago, showing public opinion all along the way, and the 
political ideas that prevail in the cabinet. 

The President and Mr. Seward invited the Mexican representative to accom- 
pany them on that visit, and it was evident the courtesy was not only to a dis 
tinguished diplomatist, but a manifestation of the position of the United States 
on the Mexican question, as is seen from the toasts and speeches on the way, 
and frequent allusions to that representative. 

Our readers will see in another part of our paper the relation of an eye- 
witness of the facts, and we call particular attention to Mr. Seward's words at 
Auburn, Avhere he said, " The President of the United States has given notice 
that intervention from abroad must cease on the 1st of November next;" and to 
the fact that the very cautious and judicious General Graut toasted, " For the 
success of the noble cause of Mexico." 

We repeat that Napoleon has no longer the control of this Mexican question. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 127 

Department of State, 

Washingon, October 2, 1866. 
Sir : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of 
the 23d of last month, containing an account, in Spanish, of the incidents re- 
specting Mexico, which occurred during the late journey of the President of the 
United States to Chicago, taken from La Voz de America, of New York, for 
which he pleased to accept my thanks. 

I avail myself of this occasion to reiterate to you, sir, the assurance of my 
most distinguished consideration. 



WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 



Senor Don M. Romero, fyc, fyc., Sf-c. 



No. 47. 

Senor Romero to Mr. Seward. 

[Translation.] 

Mexican Legation to the United States of America, 

Washington, September 24, 1S66. 

Mr. Secretary : I have the honor to enclose you No. 26, volume 2, of the 
official paper of the government of the Mexican republic, dated the 24th of 
August last, and to call your attention to the correspondence therein between 
General Viezca, governor and military commander of the State of Coahuila, and 
General Mejia, minister of war and marine of the republic, in regard to the ex- 
change of the French prisoners captured by the Mexican forces at Santa Isabel. 

I also enclose No. 34 of the official bulletin of the headquarters of the eastern 
line, published at Tlacotalpam, on the 6th instant, containing another corre- 
spondence about the capitulation of the city of Tlacotalpam to the national 
forces, and the exchange of prisoners effected by General Garcia, second in com- 
mand on that line. 

You will see in the first correspondence that, although the Mexican govern- 
ment consents to a mutual exchange of prisoners, it wishes to establishes a 
general rule, to be strictly observed by the enemy, that all exchanges made here- 
after must be in accordance with the laws of war among civilized nations. You 
will perceive that this just proposal is rejected by General Douay in his letter 
to General Viezca, from Saltillo, on the 12th of July last. He says he must 
consult General Bazaine on the subject before he could come to any definite de- 
termination. The reason why the invaders refuse to comply in .all cases with 
the laws of humanity and war is, because they wish to continue their arbitrary % 
conduct on this line. Whenever the national forces take prisoners from them of 
any importance they propose a regular change according to the custom of civil- 
ized belligerents ; otherwise, they sacrifice Mexican prisoners barbarously by 
court-martials, that judge them by strange rules, to the disgrace of the whole 
world, as is well known to the government of the United States. 

On the contrary, the Mexican army, notwithstanding their indisputable right 
to reprisals, after witnessing the murder of thousands of their people, generals 
and distinguished patriots among them, in the most horrid manner by the in- 
vaders, still keep French prisoners for exchange, unless they release them un- 
conditionally, and always treat them with a lenity and consideration, of which 
many proofs are extant, and this has been acknowledged by the French generals, 
as you will see in the communication of General Douay to General Viezca, of 
the 14th of June last, also published in the enclosed paper. 

This furnishes another proof of the inconsistency of the French, who, after 
announcing that they had no regular enemy to contend with in Mexico with 
which they could treat on war terms, enter into negotiations with the national 
forces, and try to effect treaties that can only be concluded between belligerents. 



128 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

The correspondence found in the official bulletin of Tlacotalpam shows that 
not only the French prisoners, bat even those of the misled Mexicans who 
are captured fighting for intervention, are treated humanely by officers of the 
army that is defending the independence of the republic. 

I have seen proper to expatiate upon these particulars, because I think them 
important to furnish the United States government an idea of the conduct ob- 
served by the invaders of my country. 

I willingly embrace the opportunity to renew to you, Mr. Secretary, the 
assurances of my most distinguished consideration. 

M. ROMERO. 

Hon. William H. Seward, &,->■., fyc, Sfc. 



[From the official paper of the constitutional government of the American republic, Chihua- 
hua, August 24, 1866. ] 

[Encloseure No. 1.] 

DEPARTMENT OF STATE, OFFICE OF WAR AND MARINE — SECTION FIRST. 

The president of the republic has learned from your communication of the 
Sth instant that General Douay expressed a desire to enter into arrangements, 
through Simon Blanco, to exchange the French prisoners captured at Santa 
Isabel. 

The treatment of our men, when taken prisoners, would be a sufficient excuse 
for us to treat yours in a similar manner. Our humanity and benevolence to 
your prisoners, exchanging them when requested, is recompensed by the infa- 
mous assassination of General Arteaga, Salazar, and many others, on your part, 
at Morelia and other places. 

It seems to me to be the rule of those who fight to consolidate the monarchy, 
to try to exterminate those who oppose them and foreign intervention ; but such 
barbarous acts have not been initiated by us, not even in reprisals. 

In consideration of this, the president has determined not to exchange the 
French prisoners in his hands, unless the French general will promise to treat 
our prisoners with the same consideration, without regard to the dress of our 
soldiers, who are often poorly clad, and not in uniform. The patriotism of our 
people is so great they fight in any dress, and should have the greater merit for 
it and not condemned. 

Independence and liberty ! Paso, May 31, 1866. 

MEJIA. 



General Andres Viezca, 

Governor and Military Commander of the 

State of Coahuila de Zaragoza, wherever he is to be found. 

[Encloseure No. 2.] 
government and military commandancy of the state of coahuila de 

Zaragoza. 
You will perceive by the enclosed letters of a correspondence between this 
department and General Douay the terms he proposes for an exchange of pris- 
oners taken in the battle of Santa Isabel. You will make them known to the 
President of the republic, and send me his opinion about the business, or you 
may send them directly to the general-in-chief of the army corps of the north, 
-who transferred the prisoners to the State of New Leon, because he appre- 
hended an expedition by the enemy in that district. 
Independence and liberty ! Monclova, June 17, 1866. 

A. S. VIEZCA. 
Eduardo Muzquiz, 

Secretary to the Minister of War, wherever he is to be found. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 129 

[Enclosure No. 3. J 

Monclova, June 9, 1866. 

General : Dr. Simon Blanco, of this city, addressed me a letter on the first 
of May last, asking if the French prisoners taken at Santa Isabel could be ex- 
changed ; he also sent me two hundred dollars, which I sent to the chief of tke 
staff, in your name, to be delivered to Lieutenant Montier. I enclose you a 
receipt for the $200 sent to Montier. 

About the exchange of prisoners, I have to inform you that I have submitted 
the proposals to the general government, that will decide upon them. 

I clo not reply to Mr. Blanco, because I have resolved to have no communica- 
tion with men who have denied their country, and deserted it in the day of 
its misfortune. So I address you as a worthy enemy, deserving my private 
esteem and consideration. 

A. S. VIEZCA. 

General Douay, Sallillo. 

Monclova, June 17, 1866. 
A true copy : 

EDUARDO MUZQUIZ, 

Secretary of the Stale Government* 



[Enclosure No. 4.] 

Expeditionary Corps of Mexico, First Division op Infantry, 

Headquarters, No. 1,257, 

Saltillo, June 14, 1866. 

General: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 
8th instant from Monclova. Accept my thanks for forwarding the two hundred 
dollars intended for Montier and his captive companions. I hope you will not 
consider me importunate if 1 ask you to remit two hundred dollars more in ex- 
change on Monclova, to the same destination. 

I do not wonder, general, that you have not the authority to effect the ex- 
change of our prisoners, for even I am not allowed that power; but my great 
desire to free my prisoners induces me to write you this letter, knowing you 
will try to effect an exchange. 

I enclose a list of the names of thirty-one Mexican officers confined in Puebla, 
and one hundred and four Mexicans, six of them officers, taken from Oortinas, 
now iu Vera Cruz. I think the marshal would consent to exchange these pris- 
oners for the French taken at Santa Isabel on the 1st of March, and at Parral 
on the 13th of August last, and for some Mexican officers lately captured in 
Chihuahua by Terrazas. I do not know if Montier and his companions in cap- 
tivity are allowed to communicate with their friends; if they are not, I beg you 
to permit them to do so. I see no impropriety in it if the letters are first sent 
to you unsealed. 

You see, general, I do not hesitate to appeal to your feelings of humanity and 
courtesy in effecting the proposed exchange of prisoners. 

Accept my thanks in advance, with the assurances of my high consideration. 

F. DOUAY, 
General of Div., Commanding 1st Infantry Div., Expeditionary Corps. 

General Viezca, Monclova. 

Monclova, June 17, 1866. 
A complete copy: 

EDUARDO MUZQUIZ, 
Secretary of the State Governments 

9 MEX. 



130 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

[Enclosure No. 5.] 

List of Mexican 2>?isoncrs taken at Oaxaca by the French, and now confined 

in Pucbla. 

Lieutenant Colonels: Mariano Jiminez, Jose Alvarez, Remedios Perez, Vi- 
cente Lozano, Apolonio Duval, Jose Maria Chnafia, Ignacio Castaneda. 

Battalion and squadron commanders: Jesus Sosa, Jose* Maria Ramirez, Max- 
imo Velasco, Joaquin Yallesteros, Julian Jaramillio, Jose M. Palacios, Ambro- 
se o Alonso. 

Captains: Luis Cataneo, Jesus Reeaido, Jose Vera, Emilio Legaspe, Carlos 
Berruecos. 

Lieutenants: Francisco Figueroa, Francisco Bueno, Jose Olivera, Emilio 
Delicado, Miguel Gonzales, Ramon Contreras, Jesus Herrera. 

Under Lieutenants: Manuel Sabuiio, Manuel Pineda, Juan Alvarez, Amado 
Cataneo. 

Resides the above there are six officers captured by Mejia recently in the 
vicinity of Matamoras, and one hundred and lour soldiers, now prisoners of war 
in Vera Cruz, by order of the government. All these will be exchanged for 
seventy-eight men, one officer taken at Santa Isabel, and fourteen at Parral in 
August last, with a few Mexican officers taken in Chihuahua by Luis Terrazas. 

Monclova, June 17, 1866. 
A true copy : 

EDUARDO MUZQUIZ, Secretary. 



[Enclosure No. 6.] 
DEPARTMENT OF STATE, OFFICE OF WAR AND MARINE — SECTION FIRST. 

I answered your communication in reference to the exchange of prisoners 
captured at Santa Isabel, dated the 8th of May, on the 31st of that month, en- 
closing the copy of a letter from Simon Blanco, and one from the commander of 
the first infantry division of the expeditionary army; and in my answer I gave 
you the terms of exchange. Your note of the 17th of June last reached me to- 
day. It is in relation to the same subject and contains copies of your letter to 
General Douay, and his answer, containing - formal proposals for exchange of 
prisoners. In view of what has been said, the President of the republic intrusts 
the exchange of the French prisoners of the expeditionary corps, taken at Santa 
Isabel, to your care, giving for them the chiefs, officers, and soldiers mentioned 
by General Douay in his communication of the 14th of June last. 

This communication is copied for the information of the general-in- chief of 
the army corps of the north. 

Independence and liberty! Chihuahua, July 6, 1S66. 

MEJIA. 

The Governor and Military Commander 

Of the State of Coahuiia, wheevcr he may be. 



[Enclosure No. 7.] 

MEXICAN REPUBLIC, GOVERNMENT AND MILITARY COMMANDANCY OF THE 
STATE OF COAHU1LA DE ZARAGOZA. 

Your note of the 6th instant informs me that the President has authorized me 
to exchange the French prisoners of Parral and Santa Isabel for the chiefs, 
officers, and soldiers mentioned by General Douay in his letter of the 14th of 
June last. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 131 

On the 8th instant I addressed a note, No. 1, to him, of which I enclose a cer- 
tified copy, containing terms of exchange, sent me on the 31st May from the 
department. I also enclose General Douay's answer to me. marked No. 2; by 
it yon will see that nothing can be done till he hears from G-eneral Bazaine. 

All of which I have the honor to communicate for the information of the Pres- 
ident of the republic. 

Independence and liberty! Parras, July 24, 1866. 

A. S. VIEZOA. 
M. E. OONTKERAS, 
Chief Officer in the Secretary's Absence.. 
The Minister of War and Marine, Chihuahua. 



[Enclosure No. 8.] 

MEXICAN REPUBLIC, GOVERNMENT AND MILITARY COMMANDANCY OF THE 
STATE OF COAHUILA DE ZARAGOZA. 

Parras-, July 8, 1866. 

General: I have the honor to enclose you a certified copy of the resolution 
which the supreme government of the republic that I serve has been pleased to 
adopt in regard to the negotiations you took the trouble to initiate for the ex- 
change of the prisoners of PaiTal and Santa Isabel. 

I hope you will find the conditions announced in the resolution as just, rea- 
sonable, and founded on the principles of the laws of war, particularly as you 
refer in your last note to humanity towards the conquered, in which sentiment 
I am pleased to say we both agree. I should be sorry to hear of the perpetra- 
tion of acts by the enemy that might force the republican troops to the extreme 
of reprisals, so contrary to the good principles of civilization and the rights of 
humanity. 

I remain, general, your attentive servant, 

A. S. VIEZCA. 

General Douay, Saltillo. 



[Encloseure No. 9. 
GOVERNMENT AND MILITARY COMMANDANOY OF THE STATE, PARRAS, JULY 24, 

1866. 

EXPEDITIONARY CORPS OF MEXICO, FIRST DIVISION OF INFANTRY HEAD- 
QUARTERS, NO. 1,476. — EXCHANGE OF PRISONERS. 

Saltillo, July 12, 1S66; 
General : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 
8th of July, containing the copy of an official document relative to the proposed 
exchange of French prisoners taken at Santa Isabel and Parral. The great de- 
sire I had to carry out this humane negotiation of advantage to the whole 
world makes me lament that the said letter on exchange of prisoners contains 
conditions which renders it impossible for me to accept, or even discuss. All I 
can do is to refer it to the marshal coenrnander-in-chief. 



132 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

I will not close this letter without thanking you for the interest you have. 
taken in this matter, and begging you to accept the assurances of my high con- 
sideration. 

DOUAY, 
General Commanding the First. Division of Infantry 

of the Mexican Expeditionary Corps. 
M.R.OONTRERAS, 
Chief officer in the Secretary's absence. 
General A. Yiezca, JParral. 



[Enclosure No. 10. 
DEPARTMENT OF STATE, OFFICE OF WAR AND MARINE — SECTION FIRST. 

The President of the republic is informed by your despatch of the 24th 
Jul}' last, enclosing Nos. 1 and 2 of the last correspondence between you and 
General Douay, in regard to the exchange of the prisoners that were taken 
from the invading army in the action at Santa Isabel, that the business is still 
pending, as General Douay is awaiting the decision of General Bazaine. 

You were directly authorized to attend to this business, because the com- 
mander-in-chief of the army of the north, who was informed of it, was so far 
off. The principles upon which the authorization of the exchange was based 
are those observed by civilized nations, and which the government of the re- 
public has tried to follow in all its acts, in contrast to abuses committed by the 
enemy. 

Independence and liberty! Chihuahua, August 21, 1S6G. 

MEJIA, 

General A. S. Viezca, 

Governor and Military Commander of the State 

of Coahuila de Zaragoza, at Saltillo. 



[Enclosure No. 11.] 
MEXICAN REPUBLIC. 

Colonel Camacho, commanding the imperialist troops in front, has sent me at 8 
o'clock this morning the following communication : 

" Mexican Empire, Tlacotalpam, 

" August IS, 1S66. 

" On surrendering this city to you, according to my agreement with the general 
second in command of the eastern line, I have also the honor to turn over to 
you privates Donaciano Cruz, Lucas Yillanca, Casimiro Rodriguez, and 
Eufrurio Canada, made prisoners to the command of said general on the 10th 
instant, and Juan Manuel, captured on the 25th May last. I request you to 
send me, in exchange, to Alvarado an equal number of my soldiers made prison- 
ers in the fight of the 10th of this month. Relying on your generosity and 
honorable antecedents, I leave in your power privates M. Garcia, J. Valderama, 
F. Espinosa, A. Perez, E. Elores, N. Arellano, B. Hernandez, and L. Barrera, 
of my command, who are very sick and cannot be removed. I hope you will 
let me know when they are able to join me, that I may send for them. 

" Having known you, colonel, a long time since.it is gratifying to me to deal with 
you on this occasion, and improve it to tender you my most distinguished con- 
sideration and esteem. 

" MARIANO CAMACHO, Colonel:' 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 133 

I have answered as follows. 

"Mexican republic : 

" I am in receipt of your polite communication of to-day, relative to the sur- 
render of this place according to the agreements concluded between you and the 
general second in command of the eastern line ; I thank you for the good 
treatment received by onr soldiers made prisoners in the fight of the 10th 
instant. I will send you to Alvarado an equal number of prisoners of your 
command, in compliance with your wishes. 

" I didy appreciate your confidence in leaving under my care the sick of your 
command ; they shall be treated as brothers, and may God crown my efforts to 
restore them to health. 

" I also am gratified to deal with you on this occasion, and seize it to tender 
you my distinguished consideration. 

"LUIS MIERZ TERAN, Colonel." 

It is 37 minutes after 8 a. m., and I receive a message from Colonel Camacho 
to the effect that the place is evacuated by his troops ; I proceed to occupy 
it and issue there this communication. 

Independence and liberty ! Tlacotalpam, August 18, 1866. 

LUIS MIERZ TERAN. 
The Citizen General 

Second in command of the Eastern Line. 



No. 48. 

Mr. Seward to Scnor Romero. 

Department of State, 

Washington, October 2, 1866. 
Sir : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of 
the 24th ultimo, containing a copy of No. 26, volume 2, of the official paper of 
the government of the Mexican republic, for which be pleased to accept my 
tbanks. 

I avail myself of this opportunity to renew to you the assurances of my 
most distinguished consideration. 



Sefior Don M. Romero, fyc, fyc., fyc. 



WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 



No. 49. 

Scnor Romero to Mr. Seward. 

[Translation.] 

Mexican Legation in the United States of America, 

Washington, September 30, 1866. 

Mr. Secretary : I have the honor to transmit to you the English transla- 
tion of a decree, published in the Moniteur Universal, of Paris, on the 13th in- 
stant, containing a so-called convention, concluded on the 30th of July last, be- 
tween the Emperor of the French and his agent in Mexico, Don Fernando- 
Maximiliano Jose de Hapsburg. The decree contains the following dispo- 
sitions : 

1. The French agent in Mexico agrees to grant to France fifty per cent, of 
the returns of the Gnlf custom-houses of the Mexican republic, and twenty- 



134 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

five per eent. of those of the Pacific, that being the only disposable portion of 
the returns. 

2. Tliis appropriation is to pay the interest and to extinguish the loans con- 
tracted hy Don Fernando de Hapsburg, and also to pay the three per cent, in- 
terest on the dell, he supposes Mexico owes to France, which he estimates at 
two hundred and fifty millions of francs, more or less. 

3. Tlie duties now collected in the Mexican custom-houses shall not be 
changed so as to lessen the returns. 

4. The duties shall be collected hy French agents in Vera Cruz and Tampico, 
''and they shall be under the protection of the French flag." In all the other 
ports the respective custom-house accounts shall be indorsed by the French 
agents. 

5. The French Emperor shall fix the term of office of the agents in Vera 
Cruz and Tampico, and shall take the necessary measures for their protection. 

6. This new arrangement takes the place of the so-called convention of Mira- 
mar, of the 10th of April, 1S64, only in reference to financial concerns. 

If this arrangement would go no further from the Emperor Napoleon and his 
agents in Mexico I would have nothing to say about it, as I hold he has aright 
to dictate as he pleases to his subordinates ; but as certain obligations are pretended 
to be imposed on the Mexican nation by one who has no right to do it, I deem 
it my duty to make, respectfully, some remarks in relation to the arrangements for 
the reconsideration of the government of the United States. 

In the first place, I beg you to permit me to say, if any one really believes 
that Don Ferdinand Maximilian of Hapsburg is anything more than a French 
agent in Mexico, or that the success of French intervention will do anything 
more than make Mexico a dependency of France, he will be undeceived by 
reading the so-called convention; for, by it, some of the principal rights of Mex- 
ican sovereignty, as the power of changing the tariff of imports and exports 
and the collecting of them by their own agents, are intrusted to France. 

It is generally understood that the French government has for some time de- 
sired to make the United States believe that Mexican intervention was an error, 
of which it has repented, and which it means to correct, as soon as possible, but, 
in such way as to keep up appearances and save itself from the contempt of 
its own subjects and of the whole world. With this idea it was to be hoped that 
the measures adopted would really bring about the result desired, so that the 
French government would be free from the complications and difficulties caused 
in Mexico by itself. But, so far from this being the case, it seems the so-called 
convention only increases the impediments for leaving Mexico, and gives rise to 
new and immediate perplexities. If the French Emperor has the right to make 
what arrangements he pleases with his agents, he certainly cannot think they will 
be binding on the nation whose name he invokes. The conventions that the Em- 
peror makes with his agent, Don Fernando Maximilian, canuot bind Mexico 
any more than the orders transmitted to General Bazaine by the French minis- 
ter of war. It is now time for the Emperor Napoleon to confess frankly that 
he has been routed in his war with Mexico, and should accept the consequences 
of his defeat. Every effort to conceal this will only increase the embarrassment 
of his position, and make his situation more ridiculous. 

I know very well the friends of the Emperor Napoleon explain this conduct 
by his desire to save appearances in pretending to protect French credit, but 
without the intention of enforcing the convention. In my opinion this expla- 
nation is very far from being satisfactory. If it is now tried to prove that all 
is well for the French government in Mexico, I do not think the way to do it 
is to make agreements that everybody knows beforehand cannot be complied 
with, and if they are not fulfilled, as they concern " special agents, to be pro- 
tected by the French flag," can only be another cause of discredit to the 
.government of the Emperor Napoleon. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 135 

This explains why the convention is blamed by all those who wish to see 
France freed from the difficulties which its government has brought upon it in 
Mexico, as the accompanying extracts from various French papers will show. 
In my opinion, the real object of the convention is to leave the seeds for other 
difficulties and complications, so as to have some excuse to remain in Mexico, 
in case the Emperor Napoleou sees fit to prolong his intervention and the occu- 
pation of the country beyond the time he promised the United States to with- 
draw from Mexico. As for the rest, if the convention has been mide in good 
faith, what must we think of the sincerity of the Emperor of the French, when 
we see him deprive his agent of the only resources that enable him to live in 
the city of Mexico while the French army holds some portions of the Mexican 
republic 1 

As the convention mentions the loans negotiated by the French government 
for its agent, Don Fernando Maximilian, to oppress Mexico, I enclose some 
articles in regard to these loans taken from English papers that cannot be con- 
sidered friendly to the Mexican republic, nor even impartial, giving some idea 
of the fraud and deception with which they have been contracted, and of the 
distribution that has been made of them. 

As to the two hundred and fifty millions of francs, the cost of the war that 
France is now making upon Mexico, as it is notoriously unjust, with no other 
aim than to conquer the country, it cannot be imagined how the Emperor Na- 
poleon can expect that Mexico will pay it. If he had been successful in his 
expedition, he would have had a rich colony ; but as he has failed, he ought 
in justice to indemnify Mexico for the injury he has done her, instead of ask- 
ing compensation for the expenses of a cruel and unjust war. 

I am pleased to have this occasion to renew to you, Mr. Secretary, the as- 
surances of my most distinguished consideration. 

M. ROMERO. 

Hon. William H. Seward, fyc., fyc, fyc. 



[Enclosure No. 1. — From Le Moniteur TJniversel, (official paper of the French empire,) 
Paris, Thursday, September 13, 1866. No. 256, page 1.] 

OFFICIAL : 

Napoleon, by the grace of G-od and the national will, &c. Upon the report 
of our minister secretary of state for foreign affairs, we have decreed and do 
decree as follows : 

Article 1. A convention relating to the assignment to the French govern- 
ment of the customs receipts of Mexico having been signed at Mexico on the 
30th of July, 1866, the said convention, whose tenor runs as under, having our 
sanction, will receive full and entire execution from the date of November, 1866. 

CONVENTION. 

His Majesty the Emperor of the French and his majesty the emperor of 
Mexico, animated by a desire to settle to their mutual satisfaction the financial 
questions pending between their governments, have resolved to conclude a con- 
vention with that object, and appoint for their plenipotentiaries — 

His Majesty the Emperor of the French, M. Alphonse Dano, his envoy extra- 
ordinary and plenipotentiary at Mexico, &c. 

His majesty the emperor of Mexico, M. Louis de Arroye, under-secretary of 
state, &c, who have agreed upon the following articles : 

Article 1. The Mexican government grants to the French government an 



136 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

assignment of one-half of the receipts of all the maritime customs of the empire 
arising from the undermentioned duties: 

Principal and special import and export duties upon all ohjects. 

Additional duties of internacion and cvntra-registre. 

The duty tit' mejoras materiales&B soon as the said duty shall he freed from the 
assignment actually in force in favor of the Vera Cruz and .Mexico Railway 
Company — an assignment which cannot he extended. 

As the export duties of the custom-house on the l'acific coast are already 
pledged to the extent of three-fourths, the assignment now made in favor of the 
French government shall be limited to the twenty-five per cent, which remains 
unchanged. 

Art. 2. The produce of the assignment stipulated in the foregoing article 
shall be applied : First, to the payment of the interest to the sinking fund, and 
of all the obligations arising out of the two loans contracted in 1SG4 and 1865 
by the Mexican government. Second, to the payment of interest at the rate of 
three per cent, upon the sum of 210,000,000 francs, of which the Mexican gov- 
ernment has acknowledged itself indebted by virtue of the convention of Mira- 
mar, and of all the sums subsequently advanced in any shape from the French 
treasury. The amount of this liability, (creance,) estimated now at the approx- 
imate sum of 250,000,000 francs, shall be hereafter fixed in definitive manner. 
In the event of the amounts received being insufficient for the full payment of 
the charges above mentioned, the rights of the holders of bonds of the two loans 
and of the French government shall remain completely reserved. 

Art. 3. The amount arising from the assignment of one-half of the produce of 
the Mexican customs shall increase proportionally with the augmentation of the 
receipts, and in case the amount should exceed the sum necessary to meet the 
charges specified in article one, the excess shall be applied in reduction of the 
capital sum due to the French government. 

Art. 4. The quota of duties and the mode of levying them, at present in force, 
shall not undergo any modification which might have the effect of diminishing 
the product of the proportion assigned. 

Art. 5. The collection of the duties assigned, as mentioned in article one, shall 
be performed at Vera Cruz and at Tainpico by special agents, placed under the 
p>rotectionof the French Jlag. All the duties received at these two customhouses 
on account of the Mexican treasuiy shall be appropriated to the discharge of the 
French concession, with the sole reserve of any portion that may be the subject 
of any assignment now recognized, and of the payment of the salaries of the 
officers of those customhouses. The amount of this latter expense, which shall 
include the remuneration allowed to the French agents, must not exceed five per 
cent, of the produce of the before-mentioned duties. A quarterly settlement of 
accounts shall set forth the amounts thus received by the French government 
and the product of the assigned duties in all the customhouses of the empire. 
This settlement of accounts shall fix the sum to be immediately paid by the 
Mexican government to make up the amount of the revenue conceded in case 
there should be a deficiency, or the sum to be handed over to it should the sum 
received be in excess. In all the other ports than Vera Cruz and Tainpico the 
French consular agents shall revise the accounts of the customs establishments in 
the ports where they are resident. 

Art. 6. It shall be left to (he discretion of the Emperor Napoleon III to fix 
the time during which the agents charged with levying these repayments shall 
be maintained at Tampico and Vera Cruz, as well as to define the measures 
which may be proper to insure their protection. 

Art. 7. The arrangements above specified shall be submitted for approbation 
to the Emperor of the French, and shall become in force at a time fixed by his 
Majesty. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 137 

The convention signed at Miramar on April 10, 1864, shall from that time he 
abrogated on all points which relate to financial questions. 

In faith of which the respective plenipotentiaries have signed the present 
convention, to which they have affixed their seals. 
Made in duplicate at Mexico, the 30th of July, 1S66. 

ALPH. DANO. 
LOUIS DE ARROYO. 

Art. 11. Our minister secretary of state for the home department, provi- 
sionally charged with the department of foreign affairs, is charged with the exe- 
cution of the present decree. 

NAPOLEON. 

St. Cloud, September 12, 1S66. 

Seen and sealed with the seal of the state : 

The Seal Keeper and Minister of Justice and Public Worship, 

J. BAROCHE. 
By the Emperor: 

The Minister of the Interior in charge ad interim 

of the Department of Foreign Affairs, 

LA VALETTE. 



[Enclosure No. 3. — From La Liberte, Paris, September J4, 1866.] 
THE LIQUIDATION. 

A man must entertain very robust illusions not to be convinced that the mon- 
archical experiment attempted by France in Mexico is rapidly approaching its 
denouement ; and it may be truly said that the policy of intervention has never 
before exhibited so plainly the perils which it has created and the troubles which 
follow in its track. We went to Mexico to recover an insignificant debt ; to-day 
Mexico owes us 250,000,000 francs, and we end where we should have began, 
by taking possession of the customs. 

We went to Mexico to protect the lives of our countrymen, as the names of 
eight Frenchmen who were assassinated were given. Now we are obliged to 
record — to say nothing of our soldiers killed — the murder of French residents 
at Saltillo, at Tampico, and on the road from Vera Cruz. We went to Mexico 
to support the claims of some French subjects; now these claimants complain 
of the enormous reductions which have been made in their demands, and of the 
non-payment of recognized indebtedness. Beside that, instead of a few claim- 
ants, we have before us a legion of holders of the two Mexican loans, who 
demand that Ave should reimburse them. We went to Mexico to found a stable 
government, and now that government, with assistance in money and men which 
none of its predecessors had is unable to live without us. Deprived of its cus- 
toms revenues, its only real resource, soon to be deprived of our material aid, 
the empire has no longer either money or men, and it bas only to choose between 
a prompt abdication and the successive conquest of all its provinces by the dis- 
sidents, who, we have been so often told, were entirely beaten and exhausted. 
In such a situation, on the eve of the abdication of Maximilian, the adversaries 
of the Mexican expedition would be lacking in patriotism if they indulged in 
sterile and useless recriminations. At the same time the journals which have 
restiug upon their conscience the aid imprudently given to an unfortunate enter- 
prise, will fail in their duty if they do not unite with us in seeking the means 
of finishing as soon as possible with an affair which has cheated their hopes and 



138 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

gone contrary to all their calculations. Liquidation — that ia what is desired, 
and it. should he firmly desired without, however, indulging in chimeras. To 
expect that Mexico, which was unable to pay an insignificant sum due to France 
before the intervention, can now pay us two hundred and fifty millions, is to 
follow a chimera. Lei us get rid of the idea. To expect that .Maximilian can 
reign in Mexico without his customs revenues — that is to say, without a budget — 
is still to follow a chimera. Let us abandon it. To expect that any government 
succeeding to the empire will ratify the convention of the 26th of July, and 
tli.it it can live without a budget, is to pursue a chimera. Let us not talk of it. 
We will put but one question : How are we to guarantee the existence of our coun- 
trymen against reprisals of the Juarists, placed outside the law by official pro- 
clamation, and the partisans of whom have been summarily shot? It would 
certainly be very much to he regretted that the holders of the Mexican loans 
should lose in whole or in part their investment in the Mexican lottery; but 
after all, these are only the chances of play. That those who have furnished it 
or its equivalent should lose the two hundred and fifty millions which Mexico 
owes us \\ould be very sad; but after all, these were the expenses of an expedi- 
tion which was approved by the deputies whom the contributors elected. What 
would be terrible would be the massacre of our countrymen who did not ask for 
intervention, and Avho, our army evacuating Mexico, would be left as hostages 
in the hands of the exasperated Juarists. Now, the only means of saving them, 
if they arc menaced, as the French journals in Mexico unanimously say t\iey 
are, is to place them under the guarantee of a treaty concluded between France 
and a national government. Does the government of Maximilian, who cannot 
even defend himself, present sufficient guarantees? Evidently not; and, besides, 
it has just taken away from itself the means of existence. There is no necessity 
of our occupying ourselves further with it. 

There remain three republican chiefs — Santa Anna, Ortega, and Juarez. Can 
we treat with Santa Anna, the ancient head of the conservative party ? 

Overthrown by the liberal party, absent from Mexico for many years, Santa 
Anna no longer has any reputation. If his party, who demanded intervention, 
had possessed the slightest influence, Maximilian would have governed with 
men of that stamp, and need not have been obliged to seek for bis ministers 
among the liberal party. The presidency of Santa Anna would be then an 
anti-national and ephemeral presidency, which w r ould furnish us with no real 
guarantees. 

Can we treat With Ortega? Why? What claim has General Ortega to the 
confidence of the Mexicans? What guarantee of stability would bis govern- 
ment present? It would be that of Juarez without his popularity. 

There remains, then, only Juarez. Say and think what we please about 
Juarez, it is none the less true, that in Mexico he is popular. The proof of 
this is that, notwithstanding our efforts, in spite of our excellent soldiers, he has 
held the field for four years. After the departure of Maximilian, his will be the 
sole constituted power. Why, then, can we not treat with him? Attaining 
power upon the ruins of the conservative party, Juarez has given proof of a 
firmness, a perseverance, which we must deplore, as it has been very unfortunate 
for the designs of Frauce, but which, from his point of view, is very honorable. 
In a country where probity is an uncommon virtue, (we have never heard his 
probity attacked,) and after having decided upon the sale of the clerical prop- 
erty, he was the only one who did not profit by the operation to which this sale 
gave opportunity. Again, at the time when, during the siege of Puebla, the 
population of Mexico loudly demanded, at one time, the massacre, at another, 
the expulsion of the French residents, it was he, and he alone, who saved our 
countrymen from death and ruin. France combatted him with ardor as long as 
she believed in the duration of the empire. This w r as a duty, as it was neces- 
sary that it should defend the government which it had established. But the 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 139 

day when we recognize that the establishment of a monarchy in Mexico will 
demand too heavy , acrifices — the day when Maximilian disengages us by his 
abdication — what serious reason have we for not treating with the government 
of Juarez? That day our only duty will be to come to an understanding with 
the government which presents the most guarantees of continuation. Now what 
government offers more than that which has lasted four years, in spite of the 
intervention? 

Let us then cast aside all secondary considerations, and if the empire is to 
fall, let us not hesitate to adopt the only reasonable course. This course, once 
adopted, we may be certain that we will obtain from Juarez all the desirable 
concessions; and, in any case, we will have assured the lives of our country- 
men, whom Juarez alone is probably sufficiently influential to efficaciously pro- 
tect. 

The Patrie ought to be satisfied now with our explanations, and should not 
accuse them of being obscure. Will it tell its, in its turn, what it proposes- to 
conciliate the necessity of evacuating Mexico, and the duty of protecting our 
countrymen? Let it speak plainly; but, after assuming the responsibility of 
the Mexican loan by rash eulogies, let it beware of assuming the much more 
serious responsibility now of events unanimously predicted by all the Mexican 
journals. 

CLEMENT DUVEENOIS. 



[Enclosure No. 3.] 

A well-informed journal, the Moniteur, publishes this morning the following 
note : 

"By a decree of the 26th July, his majesty the emperor of Mexico has con- 
fided the portfolio of war to General Osmont, major general, chief of staff in the 
expeditionary corps, and the portfolio of finance to Mr. Friant, military intend- 
ant. The military duties of these two chiefs in service, attached to an army in 
the field, being incompatible with the responsibility of their new functions, they 
have not been authorized to accept them." 

It is scarcely necessary to say that we approve of this resolution of the French 
government in the most complete manner. What will the Patrie think of it, 
when it said yesterday, speaking of General Castelnau's mission? — 

"We are certain General Castlenau's mission to Mexico relates to a new plan 
for reorganization, containing many civil and military reforms, to be applied in 
December next. The appointment of General Osmont as minister of war, and 
Mr. Friant, military intendant, as minister of finance, is only the starting point 
for this entirely new situation. 

According to the basis adopted for the Mexican army, that army, commanded 
chiefly by French officers, would not only serve to keep order and quiet in the 
country, but would be employed in directing the different civil and financial ser- 
vices, the employes being taken from the army. This system, lasting two ox- 
three years, would be economical to the treasury, as the salaries would be paid 
from the army fund, and peace and economy are what the people now need, 
above all things." 

Our readers can judge from this what the informations and predictions of 
the Patrie are worth. 

CLEMENT DUVEENOIS. 



140 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

[Enclosure No. 4. — From the Opinion Nationals, of September 15.] 
THE CONVENTION WITH MEXICO. 

The convention with Mexico, published in the Moniteur of yesterday, al- 
though signed by M. De La Vialette, minister ad interim, has been in reality 
concluded by Mr. Drouyn de Lhuys, since on the 30th of July the latter had 
not yel resigned. This convention, we regret to say, seems to fall short of the 
object aimed at by the two governments, and contains elements of danger and 
complications to which we believe it to be our duty to call public attention. 

The treaty concedes to France half the receipts of the custom-houses of the 
ports located on the Gulf of Mexico, and a fourth in all the ports of the Pacific 
ocean. If the concession is but a fourth of the receipts in the harbors of the 
Pacific, it is because the other three-fourths are already mortgaged ; so that the 
Mexican government will not get anything from these ports. It will not get 
much more in the (Julf of Mexico, because if we are to receive fifty per cent., forty- 
nine per cent being already conceded as a guarantee to the Spanish-English 
debt, there will remain one per cent., that is to say, the equivalent of nothing, 
to the Mexican government. Now the custom-houses having been the principal 
part of its revenue, the question occurs, what will the aforesaid government 
have to live upon hereafter ? This, of course, is a question which we will not 
undertake to solve. 

There is another circumstance worthy of notice. The convention allows us 
fifty per cent, of the produce of the custom-house in fhe Gulf of Mexico. Now, 
out of the three principal ports located on that gulf, Matamoras, Tampico, and 
VeraCruz, two, Matamoras and Tampico, do not any longer belong t(l Maximilian. 
Tampico, especially, fell into the hands of the Juarists on the 1st of August, 
the day following the signature of the convention. Must we conquer it again 1 

If, as everything goes to show, Maximilian is compelled to abdicate, what 
will be the value of the present convention to the succeeding government 1 

But the point undoubtedly the most defective and dangerous of the treaty of 
the 30th of July is the disposition contained in article 5, stating that 

"The collection of the duties mentioned in article 1 will be made at Vera 
Cruz and Tampico by special agents placed under the protection of the flag of 
France." 

This arrangement alone would be sufficient to make us condemn the treat}'. 
"With this article, nothing is ended. Vainly shall we have re-embarked our 
troops and brought them back to Europe. Our flag remains; that is to say, 
France is still engaged. Abandoning the soil of Mexico, we leave upon it the 
germ of our complications and perhaps a new expedition. 

If Mexican agents had been intrusted with the collection, we would have run 
but one risk, the certainty of not being paid. This would certainly have been 
a misfortune which was, however, susceptible of being appreciated, estimated, 
and reckoned. 

But the position which, is made for us by this treaty is far more serious, be- 
cause it conceals a certain peril, unknown in its form, unlimited in its bearing. 

Can, in fact, the position of the custom-house officers we shall leave in Vera 
Cruz and Tampico after the withdrawal of our troops be easily imagined? Who 
will protect them'? Is it Maximilian ? But if he could not keep Tampico, how 
will he protect the agents we will leave in that city? 

And if Maximilian abdicates, will the government which will take its place, 
and which will find the exchequer empty, leave quietly the French custom-house 
officers to pocket half the reAxmue of the custom-house in virtue of an agreement 
they will have not signed nor acknowledged'? 






CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 141 

On the other hand, shall we permit our agents, placed under the protection of 
the French flag, to be insulted? Shall we allow the funds which belong to us 
in virtue of the convention of the 30th of July to be seized in their hands? 
But if we have no more troops in Mexico, how shall we protect them? After 
having recalled our army, shall we be compelled to send another ? 

All this, it must be seen, is perfectly impracticable; it is the rock of Sisy- 
phus; it is the Danuid's hogshead; it is a vicious circle, in the midst of which 
we shall perpetually turn, imagining every day to put an end to an undertaking 
which we will be compelled to renew the next day. 

We must have the courage to confront bad situations ; the Mexican expedition 
is a bad business. The greatest want of France is not to economize upon the 
wrecks of the undertaking; it is to do away with it at once and forever, be the 
cost 500,000,000, 600,000,000, or 700,000,000; this is, in our eyes, a very 
small consideration when compared with the immense freedom of action which 
would follow a radical settlement. Our intervention in Mexico weighs heavily 
upon our European policy, and has raised clouds between the United States and 
us. Why? For what object? What do we hope to-day ? Nothing, is it not? 
Well, let us end it once for all; and if we are withdrawing our soldiers, let us 
not leave in their stead our custom-house officers and, above all, our flag." 



[Enclosure No. 5. — From La Patrie ; Paris, September, I860.] 

We have reason to believe that the mission of General Oastelnau to Mexico 
is connected with the approaching realization of a thorough plan of reorganiza- 
tion. This plan embraces several administrative and military reforms, which are 
to be applied from the month of December. The nomination of General Osmont 
as minister of war, and that of the military intendent, M. Friaut, as minister of 
finance, were only the point of departure of this new situation. According to 
the basis adopted for the Mexican army, this army, commanded in great part by 
French officers, will serve not only to maintain order and tranquillity in the 
country, but will be employed to direct the different administrative and financial 
services. The employes necessary to perform these services will be taken from 
it. This system, which will probably last two or three years, will have the ad- 
vantage to produce notable economies to the treasury, since Mexico will have 
scarcely any expenses to bear excepting those of the support of its army, and 
it will respond to the most pressing needs of its population, who, before all, 
demand order and economy as the two benefits before which all other considera- 
tions ought to disappear. The organization of the new Mexican army, the base 
of the whole system, at the last date was advancing rapidly. The number of 
voluntary enrolments was considerable, and had even permitted the dispension 
of the conscription. When the army shall have been entirely formed it will 
take possession of the different services, and it is thought that this substitution 
can be made long before the departure of the last contingents of the French 
expeditionary corps. When General Oastelnau will have regulated as French 
commissary the different questions in which our adhesion was considered neces- 
sary, he will return to Paris, where it is thought he will arrive in the early part 
of December. We are assured that Marshal Bazaine, Avho will no longer have 
a command in accordance with the high dignity with which he is clothed, will 
quit Mexico about the same time. 



142 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

[Enclosure No. 7. — Paris (September 13) correspondence of the London Times.] 

MISSION OF GENERAL DE CASTELNAU TO MEXICO — DISSATISFACTION WITH 

MARSHAL BAZAINE. 

General de Castelnau, one of the Emperor's aides-de-camp, left Paris on 
Tuesday night suddenly, and was to sail yesterday by the post boat from St. 
Nazaire to Vera Cruz. It is said that he carries an autograph letter from the 
Emperor Napoleon to the emperor Maximilian, and I believe it will prove that 
he also takes with him the recall of Marshal Bazaine, whose conduct in com- 
mand of the French army in Mexico has of late not given satisfaction. lie is 
accused of various shortcomings, among others of having caused the fall of 
Matamoras by neglecting to send the re-enforcements repeatedly applied for by 
General Mejia. It is not that Mejia, but his brother, who has deserted to the 
Juarists. The loss of Tampico is another disaster discreditable to the com- 
mander-in-chief. The French portion of the garrison, only one hundred and 
seventy -five men, defended themselves so gallantly as to obtain terms of honor- 
able capitulation, and marched out Avith arms, baggage, and drums beating. 
Their defence was favored by the arrival of three French men-of-war from 
Vera Cruz. Although of late people here have talked of the Mexican empire 
as nearly at its last gasp, in official circles this does not seem to be the tone, 
and hopes are cherished that it may yet survive and prosper. It is intended 
to have recourse to a thorough military organization of the country. 

The native Mexican army is to be increased, it is said, to 50,000 men, and as 
it has been found from experience that nothing can be done with Mexican officers, 
who for the most part are incapable or undeserving of confidence, the army 
will be officered by Frenchmen. French officers are generally ready for any- 
thing that promises adventure and promotion, and applications to take service 
will not be wanting. Moreover, the functions of all the departments of the 
state will be confided to French military men ; taxes, custom-house, administra- 
tion of all kinds will be in their bauds, and thus it is hoped to get the better of 
the corruption and sloth which have hitherto been the bane of the new empire. 
It remains to be seen how far all this is practicable and productive of good 
results. Most people will be surprised if either Maximilian or the French 
troops are in Mexico this time two years. Part of these troops are to be with- 
drawn next November, but the French government has reserved the right to 
keep 10,000 men there until November, 18GS. Supposing Maximilian to remain 
on the throne, it is thought probable that a few thousand men will remain up to 
that time, but the French government would gladly, I suspect, withdraw them 
sooner did the consolidation of Maximilian's power permit of its being done 
without danger to his throne. 



[Enclosuee No. 8. — From La Liberte, Paris, September 16, 1866.] 
BRAGGADOCIO. 

The Patrie replies to the very calm article we produced day before yesterday, 
in a philippic of inexcusable violence. Instead of helping us to contrive some 
way to put an end to this unfortunate Mexican business, it attacks our patriot- 
ism, accuses us of taking the part of assassins and robbers, and desiring the de- 
feat of our armies. Such abuse we despise, and we Avill merely say the mode 
of discussion is unworthy of a journalist Avho has any respect for his profession 
in the person of his colleagues. Cannot questions of public interest be discussed 






CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 143 

with moderation, and is it necessary to calumniate a man to refute his argu- 
ment 1 Have we accused the Patrie of bad faith, during the four years it en- 
tertained its readers with the most dangerous illusions ? Did we accuse it of 
evil intentions, when it persuaded the credulous to buy Mexican bonds, by pub- 
lishing news that was contradicted the next day 1 No ; we continued to sus- 
tain what we thought was right, and we did not say it was a want of patriotism 
to insist upon France's paying Maximilian's debts. 

Now we will resume the subject under discussion. 

The Patrie pretends to believe we want Juarez restored, when it knows it is 
not so. All we want is, for France to withdraw from Mexico as soon as possi- 
ble, consistent with the safety of our countrymen, who are threatened with re- 
taliation. That is what we wish and what we ask. For this reason we say, 
that if Maximilian decides to abdicate for want of funds or soldiers, the best 
thing Ave can do is to treat with Juarez. If the Patrie knows a better plan, let 
it be proposed ; if it is good, we will advocate it. If the Patrie knows of any 
way to keep up the Mexican empire, after our troops quit, when its last finan- 
cial resources were cut off by the convention of the 26th of July, let us hear of it. 

If it knows of none, then it must admit with us that the empire is nearly over, 
and all that remains for Maximilian to do is to renounce the throne he was 
forced to take, and retire with dignity from an enterprise he did his best to carry 
out. If he makes this resolve he will be blameless, and history will relieve 
him. from all responsibility. Does the Patrie want Maximilian to hold on to 
power, after our troops have left, and without men and without money, see his 
provinces taken from him, one by one, by the malcontents 1 

After Maximilian has left, with whom will France treat, if not with Maximil- 
ian 1 Let the Patrie tell us. 

What are the objections to our plan 1 The Liberte affirms (says the Patrie) 
that Juarez is popular, has kept up the war four years, and is the only con- 
stituted power. 

If he is the only constituted power, where is this power 1 Where is the gov- 
ernment that gives the best guarantee of durability ? 

That power fell with Puebla, and when Juarez's constitutional term as Pres- 
ident expired. 

The Liberte affirms that Juarez has kept the field for four years. Nobody 
will deny that. Has Juarez been driven out of Mexico once in these four years 1 
Even now half the provinces are in his hands, and the republicans hold the 
power in all places where our troops are not stationed. Have they not retaken 
Matamoras and Tampico ? Are they not at Medellin, only half an hour from 
Vera Cruz ] 

The Liberte says again that Juarez is popular. What audacity ! Certainly 
Juarez must have some influence since he has kept unhappy men without bread 
and without shoes, fighting for four years against the best army in the world, 
braving privations, defeat, and death. 

We said that. Juarez would be the only constituted power to treat with after 
Maximilian's departure; let those who contradict us, show us some other. It is 
simply ridiculous for Mr. Dreolle to put the Mexican constitution against Juarez. 
Have there been any elections in Mexico since Juarez was elected 1 In every 
country in the world the holder of power keeps it till another is elected, particu- 
larly in revolutionary times. 

The Patrie's great argument is, that France cannot treat with Juarez because 
she has been fighting him for four years. Because France is at war with Juarez 
is the very reason why she should treat with him. Is it a rule we must not 
treat with those we fight ? If it is, there is no end to wars, and Prussia would 
still be fighting Austria. 

But, says the Patrie, Juarez is an agent for the United States. If the Patrie 
had read the history of the country, before talking about it, it would know that 



144 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

tlio grants of provinces to the Americans were made by the conservative party, 
by Santa Anna, ngainst the will of the liberals. 

Alter encouraging the Mexican expedition, and urging France and its govern- 
ment to it, by echoing the false reports circulated by -Mexicans in Paris, one 
ought to be more modest and more civil to those who are trying to repair the 
errors. 

When one has upon his conscience so many counsels condemned by experience, 
he ought not to sit down in his office and forget that there are thousands of 
French in Mexico who did not ask for intervention, and who now run the risk 
of being massacred the day after our departure. Under pretext of a point of 
honor, we ought not to expose the fortunes and perhaps the lives of our unfor- 
tunate countrymen by imprudent advice. 

'What the Patrie calls discussion, is : substituting abuse for argument, accusing 
the intentions of its opponents instead of answering their questions, endangering 
the lives of people three thousand leagues off; and all for the pleasure of making 
a few high sounding sentences. That is not politics ; it is braggadocio. 

CLEMENT DUYERNOIS. 



[Enclosure No, 8.] 
AN ALTERNATIVE. 

The Presse thus ends an article relative to the convention of the 26th of July : 

"A contract has been made with the only regular authority that exists in 
Mexico. It is binding on the nation itself, irrevocable and finite. We need not 
doubt its execution, for, if the Mexicans are opposed to it, two French frigates 
will remind them of it." 

We do not know if our honorable colleague is aware of it, but what be says 
is an open condemnation of the French expedition to Mexico. 

If two French war- vessels could compel the Mexicans to fulfil their engage- 
ments, why did France make war on them to enforce claims 1 a war that is not 
over yet ! 

If two frigates could not collect a trifling debt, that the single custom-house 
of Vera Cruz could have paid in a few months, how can they protect French 
agents in all the ports of Mexico for an indefinite period ? 

If the two frigates were sufficient, then the expedition was unnecessary ; they 
can do no more good now than they could before ; so we must give up the con- 
tract, or continue the expedition. 

CLEMENT DUVERNOIS. 



[Enclosure No. 9. — From La Liberte, Paris, 20th September, 1SG0.] 
THE SITUATION IN MEXICO. 

The Patrie believes in the future of Mexico ; it has a right to do so, but that 
is not the question ; the question is to know what France ought to do now to 
protect its citizens in Mexico. 

Does the Patrie advise France to continue military intervention beyond the 
time fixed for its termination? If that is our colleague's opinion, why does he 
not speak it outright ? Why don't he say plainly, France has not spent enough 
men and money; why does he not propose a new loan and more troops? Jn 
his disinterested tenderness for Mexico and its government, why does he not 
advise France to risk a war with the United States, when its honor and its in- 
erests are against it? 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 145 

If that is what the Patrie wants, why don't it have the courage to say so ? 
But while it laments the decrease of our effective force in Mexico, why don't it 
blame the convention of the 26th July? Though France was not obliged to 
undertake the regeneration of Mexico, when it did undertake it, it should have 
carried it out. It should not hesitate in the efficacy of its plans, nor leave Mex- 
ico bankrupt. 

On the other hand, does the Patrie want Mexico evacuated at the time fixed, 
and the convention of the 26th July executed 1 It must believe one of two 
things : either that the empire will survive intervention, or that it will not. If 
it believes the former, let It tell us by what kind of a miracle that phenomenon is 
to be caused; let it show us the financial resources to support Mexico and pay 
its debts. We want no fine phrases ; we want facts and figures ! 

If, on the contrary, the Patrie thinks Maximilian will abdicate, why don't it 
say so, and not deceive its readers ? But, what does it propose when Maximil- 
ian abdicates 1 It will not treat with Juarez. We don't know why ; but it 
will not, and that is enough. Sit pro ratione voluntas. Then, what does it 
want] what does it advise? Does it agree with the Epoque to cede Mexico to 
the United States 1 does it propose to treat with Santa Anna, the representative 
of a broken down party % or with Ortega, who is a second Juarez ? It proposes 
nothing ! 

Again, Mr. Dreolle is certainly in jest when he says France cannot give up 
the Mexican job ; and yet he advises evacuation, and declares the empire shall 
live, without saying how it shall live; and approves of the July convention 
that ruins the empire. On one occasion it praised the nomination of General 
Osmont as war minister, lauding it as a Franco-Mexican organization; and the 
next day, when the Moniteur announced that General Osmont was not author- 
ized to accept a Mexican portfolio, it rubbed its hands and exclaimed, in an im- 
portant air, "That's just what we told you yesterday !" 

Now, the Patrie takes refuge behind Count Keratry, when we don't know 
what his singular articles in the Revue des Deux MoncLes can have to do with 
the question in discussion. 

What says our author who has lived in Mexico, not in palaces and garrisons, 
but in the ranks of Colonel Dupin's gallant band, called the contra ■guerrilla? 
He tells of the defects in the present government; he shows us the errors, neg- 
lects, hesitations, and precipitations that have ruined it. He knows more about 
it than all those who went to Mexico only to solicit grants, or obtain favors. 
The writer, who has lived everywhere, leading a rugged life with his heroic 
companions, mostly in the open air, marching from village to village after Juar- 
ists, and finding out what they were good for, after enumerating government 
mistakes, concludes by telling what might have been done, and what could yet 
be done. Not a word of discouragement falls from his pen! The empire can 
live by contracting its limits. Why should it seek to govern where even the 
vaunted republics did not rule '( It can live by giving a place in the sunshine 
to the noble race of oppressed Indians ; by ousting the bandits from their hiding- 
places, those lawless disciples of Juarez or of Santa Anna ; and by suppressing 
the shameless representatives of an immoral clergy, who encourage anarchy so 
as to make their fortunes and ruin the country ! 

But what does all that prove 1 It shows theMexican empire would live with 
plenty of money, a large army, and a firm policy, if it gave up one-third of the 
provinces left to it by the republic. And who denies that ? Perhaps " those who 
went to Mexico to solicit grants or obtain favors." 

But where are those concealed whom the Patrie seems to be acquainted with ] 
Mr. Dreolle does not mention those famous claimants, the cause of the expedi- 
tion, whose claims have been greatly reduced, and are not yet paid. Will he 
mention those encouragers of the loan, who pocketed large commissions, and 

10 MEX. 



146 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

whom he took under his disinterested protection? Will he mention all those 
who obtained favors without going to Mexico ? Why don't he speak openly ? 

As to ourselves, we went to Mexico, but not to solicit grants or obtain favois ; 
and we agree with Keratry, except in one particular. We think with him that 
Mexico is an admirable country, and that an empire might be established there ; 
all that is wanting to this one is, money and independence ! It docs not lack 
the good will, nor the intelligence, nor the firmness. Money it never had, and it 
can do little with the thirty-four millions obtained from the two loans. It needs 
five hundred millions, and that was the sum we suggested before it was too late. 

Independence ! How could it be independent with an army over which it had 
no command ? We proposed to give it an army. 

Though Keratry's writings show Mexico to be a good country, deserving an 
empire, they do not prove that the present empire can live unsupported by 
Frarfce, nor do they prove that a succession is open and is to be settled. 

One word more. The Patrie is astonished at our acrimony in blaming its 
mode of debate. Well may it be astonished, for its article to-day confirms us in 
our estimation of its severity, and we persist in saying editors ought not to ac- 
cuse each other of dishonesty and want of patriotism when there is no occasion 
for it. 

Reading Dreolle's articles suggested the above moral observations. 

CLEMENT DUVERNOIS. 



[Enclosure No. 10. ] 
THE MEXICAN LOAN OCTOBER COUPONS. 

On the 5th of August, 1866, the Moniteur published a Mexican correspondence, 
ending with these lines : 

"The convoy of the specie train of six hundred thousand dollars to pay the 
the dividends of the foreign debt, left Mexico on the 22d of June, and will be 
sent to Europe on the English packet which is to start on the 1st of July from 
Vera Cruz for Southampton." 

The specie was then on the way, and the payment of the coupons was sure. 

We find the following notice in the Moniteur of this morning : 

" Mexican finance committee in Paris. 

" The president of the Mexican finance committee in Paris informs the holders 
of Mexican bonds and obligations that as no funds for. the arrears and coupons 
of the 1st October have been sent by the Mexican government, the payment is 
necessarily postponed. The president of the committee at the same time re- 
minds the holders of Mexican obligations that a capital of thirty-four millions, 
according to contract, is deposited in the bank of deposits and consignments, 
at three per cent., to reimburse their expenditures. 

"Paris, September 18, 1866." 

What does that mean 1 How is it that the Mexican committee does not men- 
tion the measures adopted by the government, as announced by the Patrie, for 
the consolation of its bond-holders ? 

CLEMENT DUVERNOIS. 



[Enclosure No. 11. — From the Patrie, September 23.] 

Why is the cabinet of the Tuilleries morally responsible to the holders of Mex- 
ican stock 1 We will say why : 1. The legislative body heard one of its mem- 
bers, M. Corta, who was charged with an official mission to Mexico, and who, at 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 147 

the sitting of the 10th of April, 1865, drew the most reassuring picture of the 
financial situation and the resources of the new empire. 2. M. llouher, minister 
of state, while disclaiming in most explicit language — we readily admit it — any 
special guarantee on the part of the government, declared at the same time that 
incontestable guarantees were attached to the loan then projected, and that 
France would not recall her troops from Mexico until she had accomplished her 
work and assured the complete pacification of the country. 3. Count de G-er- 
miny, senator, honorary governor of the Bank of France, was named president 
of the committee of Mexican finance, sitting at Paris. 4. When the loan was 
decided on, the minister of finance authorized the comptoir d'escompte to em- 
ploy the agency of the receivers general for the distribution of the scrip in all 
the departments of France. Such are the facts, and we could mention others 
not less significant ; for example, the sending to Mexico a counsellor of state, M. 
Langlais, charged to reorgnize the finances of that country. Such, we repeat, 
are the facts which preceded, accompanied, and followed the issue of the Mexi- 
can loans. Those facts and those measures evidently influenced the public 
confidence and induced the subscribers to part with their money. Why should 
we not add that the French treasury has received the greatest portion of the 
funds arising from the loans, to cover itself for funds which Mexico owed to.- 
France on various accounts ? Since, from motives which we have not now to. 
analyze, the government has been induced to renounce a policy at first adopted 
by it, and which was the determinate cause of the success of the loans, the fact 
none the less remains that the declarations which it made, and the dispositions 
which it took, remain for the holders of Mexican stock. Those do not come 
and say to the French government at the moment when Mexico — from causes 
beyond her control, we are prepard to admit — fails in her engagements : " We 
are your creditors — we have jour guarantee." In effect it is not so. Rat it must 
be allowed that the holders of Mexican securities will hardly forget that if the 
French government is not bound to them by a material guarantee,. it is- so by its 
moral acts. 



[Enclosure No. 12. — Paris (September 23) correspondence of the London Daily News. I 

The latest device invented by the advocates of the Mexican bondholders for 
redeeming the " moral guarantee" of the French government without charge to 
the French budget — a task about as practical as the search for the philosopher's 
stone — is the following : A bill is to be presented to the corps legjslatif author- 
izing the government to advance funds for payment of interest of the debt, (as 
was done in the case of Greece,) the produce of the Mexican customs, secured 
by the convention of July, being assigned as security ; and l he collection of 
these customs being admitted to be uncertain, the 34,000.000 impounded to 
accumulate at compound interest for the purpose of paying off the capital of the 
Mexican debt in fifty years would be " such an ample collateral guarantee as to 
cover the French treasury against all risk of not being repaid its advances." It 
is obvious that the scheme is mere thimble-rigging. Whatever payments might 
be made to the bondholders under it would be taken out of their own money. 
No contract with the public was ever more positive than that these 34,000,000 
should remain a sacred fund, untouched, to secure, iu the very worst case, the 
repayment of the principal of the loan in fifty years. To touch that fund now 
for the purpose of preventing grumbling about the non-payment of dividends 
would be confiscation. Besides, the Moniteur insisted only two days ago, by 
way of consolation for the announced suspension of dividend, that this fund in- 
sured the safety of the capital. I cannot think any minister would have the 
face to present such a monstrous measure as the one suggested to the corps. 



148 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

legislat'f, after M. Rouher's explicit declaration, made to stop the mouths of the 
opposition deputies who objected to the encouragement given by the executive 
to the Mexican loan, that France would never in any way be either directly or 
indirectly liable. Remembering this, it is impossible to agree with the Patrie, 
when it says to-day that though the bondholders have no legal claim on France, 
they have an " equity." Not so ; equity is all the other way, and should be 
steadily appealed to to protect the tax-payer. Nothing can be more "immoral" 
than the pretended "moral" guarantee. 



[Enclosure No: 13.] 
THE MEXICAN LOAN. 

The undersigned, Jose Hidalgo, envoy extraordinary and minister plenipo- 
tentiary of his majesty the emperor of Mexico, and Count Carlos de Germiny, 
senator, appointed by his majesty the emperor Maximilian, president of the 
treasury commission of Mexico in Paris, by a decree of the 10th of April 1864 : 

Having examined the powers conferred the 26th November, 1864, by his 
majesty the emperor Maximilian, to Messrs. Corta, deputy in the corps legisla- 
tif ; Barron, proprietor in Mexico ; Bourdillon, a lawyer residing in Mexico ; de 
Germiny, a senator, to contract a loan in Europe, their powers being counter- 
signed by Don Joaquin Velazquez de Leon, his majesty's minister of State; 

We have decided and do decide as follows : 

Article 1. There shall be inscribed in the great book of the foreign debt 
of Mexico a first series of 500,000 obligations, of 500 francs each, yielding an 
annual interest of 30 francs, payable on the 1st of April and 1st of October of 
each yeai, making a nominal capital of 250 millions of francs. The emission 
of these titles shall be at the price of 340 francs for the first interest coupon 
which falls due the 1st of October, 1865. 

The rest shall be issued as follows : 

Francs. 

On subscribing 60 francs per obligation . . 60 

From the 5th to the 15th June, 1865 80 

From the 5th to the 15th August, 1S65 50 

From the 5th to the 15th October, 1865 50 

From the 5th to the 15th December, 1865 50 

From the 5th to the 15th February, 1S66 50 

Total 340 



The coupon of 15 francs which falls due on the 1st of October shall be re- 
ceived in deduction from the entire fourth. 

The holders shall have the privilege of discounting all the terms not due, at 
the rate of six per cent, profit per annum. 

Subscrib rs not paying their instalments when due shall be charged an in- 
terest of ten per cent, per annum for delay. 

Art. 2. The liquidation shall be effected every six months by lot. The 
drawing shall be made by the treasury commission of Mexico in Paris, on the 
2d of January and 2d July of each year, so that the reimbursements may be 
made, within three months at most, to those having a right to them. 

The first drawing shall take place on the 2d of July, 1865. In each half- 
yearly drawing, every obligation drawn shall be paid in the sum of 500,000 
francs ; every two obligations, 100,000 francs ; every four obligations, 50, 000 
francs ; every sixty obligations, 10,000 francs ; a certain number, the sum of 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 149 

which shall be determined in the annexed table, 500 francs. In this manner the 
loan will be paid in fifty years. 

Art. 3. The Mexican govern ment shall appropriate fifty annuities of the 
value of 18,756,340, to pay the interest on this debt and to extinguish it. 

Art. 4. There shall also be granted to subscribers to the loan a premium 
for the repayment of the capital first paid up, to be paid in fifty years. 

For this purpose the Mexican government binds itself immediately to set aside 
a sum of seventeen millions of francs in the French three per cents. 

These funds shall be deposited in the French bank of deposits and consign- 
ments, and the interest shall be added every three months, as a duty of the 
establishment. 

In case these funds at the end of fifty years do not represent a sum sufficient 
to pay the premium of 340 francs to whom it is due, owing to the fall of French 
rentes, the Mexican government binds itself to make up the difference; and if 
there is an excess it shall belong to the Mexican government. 

Art. 5. The present decision is made in duplicate, one to be deposited in the 
archives of the treasury commission of Mexico in Paris, the other to be sent to 
his majesty the emperor Maximilian. 

Done in Paris, April 14, 1865. 

JOSE HIDALGO. 

CONDE CH. DE GERMINY. 



[Enclosure No. 14. — From the London News, August 10.] 
AN ENGLISH OFFICIAL STATEMENT OF MAXIMILIAN'S FINANCES. 

The sudden arrival of the empress of Mexico heightens the interest which 
so many Englishmen have reason to take in the affairs of that country. It is 
natural to suppose that the emperor Maximilian would not have permitted the 
partner of his throne to make a sudden voyage to Europe in the ordinary French 
mail steamer unless the business on which she came was extremely urgent. 
The empress Charlotte is no merely ornamental appendage of a court; she is a 
woman of courage and dignity, of capacious understanding and practical aptitude, 
formed in all respects to figure with distinction in the great world. She has 
had a full share of the responsibilities as well as the perils attending her hus- 
band's remarkable adventure in the New World ; and now that that enterprise 
has reached its crisis, the public will not be far wrong in supposing that the 
emperor Maximilian, tired of the periphrasis of diplomacy, has permitted his 
other self to visit the distant source and centre of his power to learn at first 
hand what further aid he was to expect from the creator of his throne and em- 
pire. There can be no doubt that this was the wisest step he could take; if 
the truth is to be got at the empress will find it. The Emperor of the French, 
however, may justly complain, if he will, for it is rather sharp practice to intro- 
duce feminine naivete and persistence into an affair so mysterious and sacred as 
diplomacy without a moment's warning. The empress left Mexico before the 
great events which have recently taken place in Germany could be known there. 
Unless the emperor Maximilian had better information than was accessible to 
the European public two months ago, he must have been expecting wheu he 
parted with the empress to hear soon that Marshal Benedek had chastised 
Prussian insolence in the neighborhood of Berlin. The empress would proba- 
bly receive intelligence of the battle of Sadowa, though scarcely of its vast 
political consequences, on her way to Europe. She finds the Emperor Napo- 
leon preoccupied with affairs compared with which the Mexican enterprise was 
a holiday diversion. No one in France now thinks of the laurels which Mar- 



150 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

shals Forey and Bazaine have gathered in the New World, and it is to he feared 
that the empress will not be able to dazzle Napoleon with prospects that will 
withdraw him from the cares that now crowd upon him in Europe. The em- 
press of Mexico is a sensible woman, and will take in the situation at a glance. 
She will be able to judge for herself what are the chances of her husband re- 
ceiving succor from Europe. The French army and the French treasury have 
been the reserve on which the emperor of Mexico has freely drawn for these 
two years. The empress will perceive that this is a crisis in which the impe- 
rial banker at Paris must in justice to himself draw together all his resources, 
close outstanding transactions, taking from his debtors whatever they are able 
to pay, but on no account parting with more. If the Mexican empire can stand 
when the French troops have been recalled, and supplies of French money have 
ceased to flow, well; if not, the empress will hardly find it worth while to make 
another voyage across the Atlantic. 

The political, military, and financial condition of Mexico has been sketched 
with a masterly hand by the present French minister of foreign affairs in more 
than one despatch since the beginning of the year, and the facts constitute a 
full justification of the resolution announced by the French government to with- 
draw from its intervention in Mexico. But there are certain results of that in- 
tervention which will remain after the final settlement of accounts between the 
two emperors, and which greatly concern the British creditor. At the begin- 
ning of the year Mr. Middleton, secretary of the British legation in Mexico, sent 
home an approximate estimate of the amount of the revenue and expenditure of 
the Mexican empire to be calculated on for the year 1866. We reprint it: 

Revenue. 

Maritime custom-houses $12, 500, 000 

Internal custom-houses 5, 200, 000 

Direct taxes upon property in town and country 1, 200, 000 

Direct taxes upon commercial and industrial establishments 250, 000 

Mining duties 650, 000 

Stamped paper, post office and other miscellaneous taxes 1, 000, 000 

Total 20, 800, 000 

Expenditure. 

Imperial house $1, 740, 000 

Ministry of the imperial house 30, 000 

Ministry of state 340, 000 

Ministry of foreign affairs 290, 000 

Ministry of the interior 3, 700, 000 

Ministry of justice 900, 000 

Ministry of public instruction 438, 000 

Ministry of war 12, 970, 000 

Ministry of public works 1, 626, 000 

Ministry of finance 3, 400, 000 

Total , 25, 434, 000 



Mr. Middleton suggests that the customs revenue may produce a million dol- 
lars more than the amount stated abuve; but when he expressed that opinion 
he did not know that the French occupation, which had given such an impulse 
to consumption and importation, was about to cease. On the other hand, he 
points out that the cost of the French contingent is not included in the estimate. 
He observes, moreover, that "owing to the little progress being made in the 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 151 

pacification of the country," the amount set down for military expenditure will 
not prove sufficient. The charges of the public debt remain to be added. They 
are as follows : 

Public debt. 

Interest and sinking fund on British convention $750, 000 

Interest and sinking fund on Padre Moran convention, 150, 000 

Interest and sinking fund on Spanish convention. . . 450, 000 

Interest and sinking fund on the internal debt 1, 200, 000 

The government estimate of interest payable on the 
Mexican stocks in London, including the deferred 
bonds, and on the amounts of the Miramar and 

Paris loans, is calculated at 10, 280, 000 

$1.2, 830, 000 

Unpaid balances on Laguna, Seca, and Guadalajara conductas, es- 
timated at 150, 000 

Sundry recognized claims 265, 000 

Subvention to Vera Cruz railway '. . 1, 350, 000 



Total 14, 595, 000 



The general result is thus stated by Middleton : 

Total revenue 20, S00, 000 

Imperial house and the different departments of state. $25, 434, 000 

Interest on public debt 14, 595, 000 

40, 029, 000 

Total deficit 19, 229, 000 



Here, then, we find the Mexican government, in the third year of the French 
expedition, with an annual deficit nearly equal in amount to the gross revenue. 
But this is not all. Since Mr. Middleton wrote, the French government has 
come to an agreement with that of the emperor Maximilian, under which the 
debt owing to France for the expenses incurred in setting up the emperor Max- 
imilian's throne is taken at ten millions sterling, upon which sum interest is to 
be paid at the rate of three per cent. So, then, it comes to this, that the French 
intervention, which was to have regenerated Mexico, but which, in fact, has 
merely intensified all the evils previously existing there, has saddled Mexico 
with an additional annual burden of two and a half millions sterling — a souvenir 
of the French occupation which the Mexicans will doubtless be careful to pre- 
serve. 



LEnclosure No. 15. — Correspondence of the London Times.] 
THE MEXICAN LOAN. HOW THE FRENCH FUNDS HAVE BEEN EMPLOYED. 

Paris, Saturday, August 25, 1866. 
The holders of Mexican debentures are beginning to make some stir ; they 
consider that the French government, who set them the example of confidence, 
and thus encouraged them to lend their money, is morally bound to bear them 
unharmed. Of the encouragement given by the government there is no doubt ; 
and the consciousness that they may have to make good the unavoidable short- 
comings of Mexico may be one of the reasons why the Emperor Napoleon is 



152 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

unable to give further financial assistance to that country. The grounds on which 
the creditors found their claims are obvious. 

In April, 1864, the Archduke Maximilian took possession of the throne ; and 
his first, or one of his first acts of sovereignty was to authorize a loan purport- 
ing to yield a revenue of near ten per cent. It was issued in Paris and in 
London ; and the French government, with a view to inspire confidence in the 
solidity of its own work, took the new stock to the amount of 54,000,000 francs on 
account of its own claims on Mexico. In spite of this high patronage the loan 
did not succeed. In his report of 1865 the director of the credit mobilier said : 
" We have shrunk from no sacrifice to better the condition of our clients, but we 
regret to say that our efforts have brought us nothing but serious loss." Only 
a portion of the loan was realized, and the French treasury had, as security for 
its advances, stock completely unproductive. 

Twelve months later the necessities of the Mexican government grew so 
pressing that indispensable military operations could not be continued vigorously. 
The emperor Maximilian was unable to i aise money, and he naturally looked to 
Fiance for help. The French government had only one of three things to do: 
to renounce the enterprise of founding a government in Mexico and recall its 
troops, to pledge the credit of France for the advantage of Mexico, or to give 
publicly such encouragement to a new loan as to insure its success. It chose 
the last, as the least difficult and the least onerous. The illusions of the gov- 
ernment were not dissipated, and whatever the majority of the legislative body 
may have thought individually, they seemed by their vote to partake them, and 
scouted the objections of the few who were well informed of the condition of 
Mexico as part of the systematic opposition. The condition of the loan, together 
with the lotteries, corresponded to an interest of 12 per cent. A week or ten 
days before the subscription opened a debate took place on Mexican affairs in 
the legislative body. A member of the house, M. Corta, who had been some 
time before sent to Mexico for the purpose of collecting exact information, com- 
pleted his mission and returned. He was present in the house when the debate 
began, and he was requested to give his opinion. He did so. Nothing could 
be more reassuring than his account of the resources of the country, and of the 
future reserved for it under the new monarchical regime. The opposition, not 
convinced by this flattering description, expressed their doubts of its accuracy, 
but the minister of state, M. Rouher, finished with a few vigorous touches the 
sketch which M. Corta had drawn. The minister's speech was, like all his 
speeches, copious, earnest, and eloquent. He pictured the crowds of immigrants 
who were about to pour into Mexico, the numerous banks that were to be 
founded, the commercial and navigation companies that were only waiting to be 
formed, the great manufactories that were to be opened, the mines of gold and 
silver, of iron and of coal, that were to be worked ; " and as for the finances of 
Mexico," he said, " has not the information just given us by M. Corta satisfied 
the chamber beyond the possibility of a doubt as to the resources of the coun- 
try ? Have no fear, gentlemen ; the able administration of the emperor Maxi- 
milian will restore and secure real prosperity to the finances of the empire, and 
give undoubted guarantees to those who lend him their money." The majority 
of the Chamber applauded. It is right to observe that the minister of state 
added : " There is here no question of the responsibility of the French govern- 
ment. France gives no guarantee, direct or indirect, in the matter of the Mex- 
ican loan." The minister could not have said less. Had he uttered only one 
word implying a positive guarantee of the French treasury, the debentures 
would have risen at one bound from 340 to 1,000 francs. The government de- 
sired and expected the success of the loan without the direct intervention of the 
treasury. A member of the opposition, M. Picard, objected : " The subscribers 
have already lost 20 per cent, on the first loan, and you speak now of a second ;" 
to which the minister replied .: 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 153 

"You are thinking of the loan about to be made, and certainly if the holders 
who will read your speech have confidence in your assertions, they •will be slow 
to give their money. This mistrust, this distrust, the criticism expressed by an 
irresponsible person, which spread disquiet and alarm in the country, will be 
powerless and vain. Your words will not be listened to, and they who do not 
listen to them are perfectly right." 

These words were again applauded vociferously. 

The second loan was issued by the comptoir d'escompte, and the comptoir 
d'escompte is debarred by its statutes from opening subscriptions of the kind 
without the special authorization of the minister of finance. The receivers- 
general throughout France were authorized by the miuister, whose immediate 
subordinates they are, to receive subscriptions. The Mexican finance commis- 
sion, under the presidency of M. de Germiny, senator, formerly miuister of 
finance, and formerly governor of the Bank of France, took charge, at the in- 
stance of the government, of the funds collected and of the payment of the 
interest. A member of the council of state, M. Langlais, was sent by the gov- 
ernment to Mexico for the purpose of introducing order in the Mexican finances. 
During the time the subscriptions were coming in, the confidence of the public 
was constantly kept up by the favorable accounts the Moniteur published every 
fortnight of the state of affairs in Mexico ; and these accounts were regularly 
reproduced in the French papers. 

The French treasury held, on account of its own claims, 54,000,000 francs in 
paper of the first loan ; and it became necessary, with a. view to reduce the float- 
ing debt, to realize that sum. The operation was not easy. Mexican credit 
was so low that the stock of the first issue, yielding more than 12 per cent, at 
that period, was not salable. The conversion of that stock, or rentes, into de- 
bentures, or obligations, with premiums and lotteries, was effected, and the min- 
ister of finance transferred his unproductive rentes into obligations. In his report 
to the Emperor, on the 20 ;h of December last, he stated that he had utilized, 
"not without loss, the stock of which he had been the holder." The minister 
evidently thought that the new Mexican obligations which were thus thrown on 
the market were a safe investment. 

From a statement published by M. Cochut it seems that the mode in which 
the funds raised for Mexico have been employed is as follows : 

" The French government in the first loan of 1864 received 6,600,000 francs 
of rente in payment of expenses incurred and to meet private claims. 

Francs. 

Of the portion offered to the public, in Paris and London, only 
10,162,000 francs, of 6 per cent, rente, were negotiated, and 
produced 102, 000, 000 

The second loan, that of 1865, by the issue of 500,000 bonds, at 

540 francs, produced 170, 000, 000 

Total 272, 000, 000 

The commissions, expenses, &c, amounted to 26, 000, 000 

The two loans, therefore, produced only 246, 000, 000 



" From the net amount several sums were retained for different objects — for the 
reconstitution of the capital at the end of fifty years, for interest reserves, 
premiums, and lotteries, dividend due to England — forming a total sum of 
212,000,000 francs, so that Mexico received only 34,000,000 francs of her loan. 
There remains at present in the French treasury 114,000 francs Mexican bonds 
not realized, 47,000 francs held in reserve for indemnities to be paid to French 



154 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

subjects, and about 83,000 francs, representing the portion of the first loan un- 
converted, and which remain in the hands of the Mexican commission. The 
number of bonds held by the public is, therefore, about 756,000 francs, distrib- 
uted over 300,000 families. Those people it is who have alone provided the 
necessities of the French army, and who even aided in reimbursing certain 
English creditors." 

The creditors, then, look to the French government, whom they consider to 
have morally guaranteed the Mexican loan by the quasi-official character given 
to the subscription, for relief. 



[Enclosure No. 16. — From the MessagerFranco-Am6ricain, New York, September 29, 1866.] 

The Paris papers that copy the above document from the Moniteur add the 
following interesting remarks : 

The Liberte asks what are the resources of Mexico to carry on the govern- 
ment, aud says : 

"According to documents furnished by the Oonstitutionnel a few weeks ago, 
the budget of receipts was fixed as follows : 

" Custom-houses of the Gulf, 38 millions ; of the Pacific, 15 millions; other 
sources, 42 millions ; making a total of 95 millions. 

" Mexico had already appropriated 75 per cent ; of the Pacific revenues, and 
now gives 25 per cent.; therefore 15 millions must be deducted from the budget. 
In the second place, Mexico having given up 49 per cent, of the customs rev- 
enues to extinguish the English and Spanish debt, and now giving 50 per cent, 
of the same revenues, there remains but one per cent, on the Gulf custom- 
houses. The budget will then remain thus : 

Gulf customs, one per cent 3S0, 000 

Pacific customs 

Other revenues 42, 000, 000 

Total 42, 380, 000 



" Thus. 42 millions is all the Mexican empire has to pay the internal debt with, 
to keep up the army, to endow public services and to pay the civil list. 

" Where are these 42 millions except on paper? We cannot tell; we think 
them problematical. Everybody will agree with us, then, in saying the Mex- 
ican empire cannot last, and that the convention of July is equivalent to abdi- 
cation. 

" On the other hand, what are the custom-house revenues now worth ? As 
much as 38 millions in the Gulf? Perhaps so, if Tampico and Matamoras — 
two ports out of the three — were not in the hands of the rebels. 

" And what will Maximilian's assignment be good for after the fall of the em- 
pire and the evacuation of Mexico by our troops ? " 

The Avenir National is alarmed to see the French flag engaged for an indefi- 
nite time in Mexico. It says : 

"Who does not see, that if the French remain in Mexico to secure the pay- 
ment of interest and the extinguishment of the Mexican debt, they cannot 
quit when they please? It is not possible to preserve freedom of action, and 
measure the exercise of rights by the exigencies of its policy, curbed by the 
convention of the 30th of July, which is nothing less than the continuation of 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 155 

that great error called the Mexican expedition. Now France would like to 
quit, for fear of danger in that direction ; and we think she would prefer to 
have, instead of the convention of the 30th July, some arrangement to incur a 
present sacrifice, to save greater ones in future." 



No. 50. 

Mr. Seward to Sefior Romero. 

Department of State, 

Washington, October 9, 1866. 
Sir : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of 
the 30th ultimo, containing the convention concluded between the Emperor of 
the French and the Prince Maximilian, as published in the Mouiteur Universel 
of Paris. 

I avail myself of this opportunity to renew to you the assurances of my most 
distinguished consideration. 



Sefior Don. M Romero, 8fc, fyc, fyc. 



WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 



No. 51. 

SeJior Romero to Mr. Seward. 

[Translation.] 

Mexican Legation in the United States of America, 

Washington, October 5, 1866. 
Mr. Secretary : I have the honor to communicate to you, for the information 
of the government of the United States, the copy of a communication which I 
received to-day from General Regules, chief of the army of the centre of the 
Mexican republic, dated in Zitacuaro the 9th of AiTgust last, reporting his move- 
ments up to that date, and the conduct of the French forces in the State of 
Michoacan. I also enclose a copy of my answer to-day to General Regules. 

I profit by this occasion to renew to you, Mr. Secretary, the assurances of my 
most distinguished consideration. 

M. ROMERO. 
Hon. William H. Seward, fyc, 8fc., Sfc. 



[Enclosure No. 1.] 
MEXICAN REPUBLIC, ARMY OF THE CENTRE GENERAL IN CHIEF. 

In a private despatch which I sent you on the 30th ultimo from the Tiripio 
hacienda, I had the honor to inform you of the enemy's movement upon me, 
forcing me to evacuate Zitacuaro, his occupation and retirement, and my return 
on the 1st instant. I remained here till the 7th, when I determined to make a 
movement upon Anganguco, garrisoned by only four hundred traitors, but had 
to give up the idea because I heard that eight hundred French, on their way 



156 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

from Queretaro to Toluca by Morelia, had gone to San Felipe del Obraje to 
defend it. And, in fact, the French did reach Angangueo yesterday, with about 
five hundred traitors picked up from the neighboring detachments, and to-day 
marched upon this place, which I regret to be obliged to give up once more, 
because I have neither sufficient forces nor munitions to defend it. 

You will perhaps think it strange that I call your attention to such trivial 
circumstances, quite natural in our warfare, where the enemy is not only striving 
to defend places that I threaten, but is struggling in his turn to seize those that 
I hold ; but you must know what I do is of great importance, when you con- 
sider that the expedition sent against me is mostly composed of French troops 
commanded by French officers. 

When the French declared they had not come to Mexico to interfere with 
the internal affairs of the country, but only to force respect for treaties violated 
by the government of the republic, and to protect the interests of their fellow- 
citizens ; and now as that had been effected, they determined to withdraw their 
troops, considering the expedition at an end, I cannot understand how and with 
what right they continue to make war on people who are opposing the govern- 
ment of the usurper, Maximilian, and give aid to places occupied by traitors 
who sustain him. 

Such outrageous conduct, without provocation, (for my forces have never yet 
attacked them,) compels me to make it known to you, because it shows the 
absolute want of loyalty in the French government, the meanness it makes 
use of to deceive the world, particularly the United States, to which you are 
accredited. 

I hope, therefore, you will make a proper use of the facts I here communi- 
cate with the government at Washington and the supreme government of the 
republic, and will tell me, in your reply, what conduct I ought to pursue. In 
the mean time it is understood that I will continue to sustain the rights of 
Mexico against domestic or foreign foes on all occasions, except when I am cer- 
tain of defeat. 

I protest to you my attentive consideration. 

Independence and liberty ! Headquarters at Zitacuaro, August 9, 1S6C>. 

N. DE REGULES. 

C. Matias Romero, 

Minister Plenipotentiary of the Mexican Republic in Washington. 

Washington, October 5, 1866. 
A true copy : 

IGNO. MAE1S0AL, Secretary. 



[Enclosure No. 2.J 

Mexican Legation of the United States of America, 

Washington, October 5, 1866. 

I had the honor of receiving to-clay your communication of the 9th of August 
last, from Zitacuaro, in which you inform me of the movements you had made 
up to that time with the forces under your command, and of the conduct of the 
French forces that were marching from Queretaro to Toluca, by way of Morelia, 
having fallen back from San Felipe del Obraje to Angangueo to aid a body of 
traitors in the latter place, which they heard you were going to attack. 

This circumstance, and the French afterwards going from Angangueo to Zita- 
cuaro to attack you, (after their government had assured the United States, as 
long ago as the 5th of April last, that it would return to the principle of non-inter- 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 157 

vention, and would withdraw its troops from the republic,) show that the French 
government has acted with notorious disloyalty, inasmuch as, while saying one 
thing in its diplomatic notes, it authorizes its soldiers to do the contrary. 

For these reasons yon request me to communicate the above facts to the gov- 
ernment of the United States and to the supreme government of the republic, 
and to advise you how to act in view of the circumstances. 

In reply, I have the honor to inform you that, in accordance with your wishes, 
and believing the nature of the case requires it, I this day transmit your note 
to the ministry of foreign relations of the republic and to the Department of 
State of the United States. Furthermore, I must inform you that, as the French 
government has made no engagement with ours to withdraw its troops, or to 
return to the principle of non-intervention, it is not bound to us, and we are 
under no obligations to it. The war between Mexico and France is the same, 
as it relates to us, as it was before the arrangement between the French gov- 
ernment and the United States ; and our duty now, as it always has been, is to 
continue the contest to the extent of our abilities, without trying to effect a 
truce with the French army, which, in reality, has no existence. 

The engagements of the French government are with the United States and 
have nothing to do with our government ; yet, as the government of the republic 
is on friendly terms with that of the United. States, I think it would be, at least, 
an act of courtesy on our part to communicate to it all information we may 
have in regard to the course followed by the French in Mexico, with a view 
that it may make a proper use of such information in accordance with its sense 
of honor and its interest ; but we have no right to demand anything of it. 

I am sorry to say to you that I have not yet received the communication you 
mention to have addressed to me from the hacienda of Tiripitio, on the 31st of 
July last. The previous one, I received before the one I am now answering, 
is dated in Zitacuaro, the 12th of July. 

For these reasons I repeat to you the assurance of my distinguished consider- 
ation. 

M. KOMERO, Secretary. 

0. General Nicolas db Regules, 

thief of the Army of the Centre. 

Washington, October 5, 1866. 
A true copy : 

IGNO. MARISOAL, Secretary. 



No. 52. 

Mr. Seward to Senor Romero. 

Department op State, 

Washington, October 12, 1866. 
Sir: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of 
the 5th instant, containing some information with regard to the military move- 
ments of General Regules and the situation of affairs at Michoacan ; also a 
copy of your letter to General Regules. 

I avail myself of this opportunity to renew to you the assurances of my 
most distinguished consideration. 

WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 
Senor Don M. Romero, fyc, fyc, 8fc. 



158 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

No. 53. 

Senor Romero to Mr. Seivard. 

[Translation.] 

Mexican Legation in the United States of America, 

Washington, October 10, 1866. 
Mr. Secretary : I Lave the honor to transmit to you, for the information of 
the government of the United States, various documents intercepted from the 
agents of the usurper Maximilian, all of them dated in Brussels the 17th of 
September, and signed by Felix Eloin, the so-called state counsellor in com- 
mission, and are as follows : 

1. A letter addressed to the usurper, informing him that the French govern- 
ment disapproves of the appointment of the French Generals Osmont and 
Friant, as ministers, and seems disposed to get rid of Maximilian ; and advising 
him to appeal to the popular vote, when the French forces are withdrawn from 
Mexico. 

2. A telegram addressed to the same, to be forwarded immediately from 
New York, containing a synopsis of the letter. 

3. A letter addressed to Don Juan Devincenties, so-called director of civil 
affairs in the private office of the usurper, in regard to his private interests. 

4. A communication to Don N. Rosas, entitled consular agent of the empire 
of Mexico in New York, requesting him to send the mentioned letters to their 
address. 

I think these documents of great importance, as they plainly show the state 
of relations between the French agent in Mexico and his chief, the Emperor 
Napoleon, and the plans of the former, in case the French army or a portion of 
it is withdrawn from Mexico. 

M. Felix Eloin is a Belgian who enjoyed the confidence of the late King 
Leopold, who bequeathed him to his son-in-law Maximilian, when the latter 
left, seeking for adventures in Mexico, as a person of discretion whom he could 
trust, and whose advice might be of service. He has been looked upon in 
Mexico for some time as Maximilian's director. Not long ago he was sent to 
Europe to operate for the usurper, who is conscious that his stay in Mexico 
depends solely upon foreign support. The letter was written after his inter- 
view with Maximilian's wife at Miramar, and it is certain that its contents 
express the ideas of Doiia Oarlota Leopoldina and those of her husband, rather 
than the writer's private opinions. 

Taking this into consideration I do not think it unreasonable to believe that 
M. Felix Eloin gives in his letter the desires, sentiments, and plans of his mas- 
ter, particularly when we reflect that he is one of those courtiers who tell their 
sovereigns only what will please them and what conforms to their wishes and 
aims. 

From these premises I deduct the following facts : 

1. The relations between the Emperor Napoleon and his agent Maximilian 
are not as cordial as the latter would like, because, it seems, the former is be- 
ginning to see the absurdity and impossibility of undertaking to establish an 
Austro-French monarchy in Mexico, and seems to be disposed to give up the 
idea, and this is not at all pleasing to the latter. 

2. That Maximilian intends to remaiu in Mexico, even if the French army is 
withdrawn from the republic, and submit the question of his rule to the popular 
vote. This proves at the same time that even his friends and servants have 
little confidence in the validity of the titles with which he now pretends to gov- 
ern, since they find it necessary to confirm them by an appeal to popular suf- 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 159 

frage, when the people shall be free from the duress of foreign intervention, as 
he says in his own words. 

3. That the usurper Maximilian, not satisfied with the calamities that his 
ambition has brought on Mexico, seeks to harm his own country by putting 
himself up as a rival of his brother, the Emperor of Austria. The allusions 
made to him on this subject by M. Felix Eloin would be taken as an insult 
by auy other than Maximilian, and it is certain they would not have been made 
if the author was not certain they would be well received. 

4. That even Maximilian's servants are despairing of his cause in Mexico, 
and only on account of his personal difficulties with the Emperor Napoleon, and 
to stand well in public opinion in Europe, and be qualified for a candidate to the 
throne of Austria, or any other in prospect, he is desired to take what is called 
a respectable departure, so as not to damage his reputation, and in a different 
way from that proposed by the Emperor Napoleon. 

5. That even in the eyes of the own servants of Maximilian, the French 
agent in Mexico, French policy has been darkened by odious acts productive of 
fatal consequences, for which it must be responsible sooner or later. 

In conclusion, what must we think of the good faith of the Emperor of the 
French, even towards those who serve him best, when we see him making 
promises of future aid, and suffering his Mexican agent to make ministers of his 
own soldiers and tries to place the entire revenues of the country at his disposal, 
and just as this is done he disapproves the conduct of the French generals who 
accept portfolios from Maximilian, which was only doing openly what had been 
done secretly ever since the beginning of the intervention by every member 
of the French army, with the full consent and authority of the government ] 

Such are the considerations that have occurred to me in view of the docu- 
ments which I now send you. Their authenticity and the importance of the 
subject are sufficient reasons, in my opinion, for submitting them to the serious 
consideration of the government of the United States. 

Thinking you might look upon these documents from a different point of view 
than that which I have taken, and believing them to be of use to the govern- 
ment of the United States in the direction of its future policy in relation to the 
affairs of Mexico, I have concluded to send them to you in the original, just as 
I received them. 

I am pleased to have this occasion of renewing to you, Mr. Secretary, the as- 
surances of my most distinguished consideration. 

M. ROMERO. 

Hon. William H. Seward, fyc, fyc, 8fc. 



[Enclosure No. 1. — Translation.] 

Brussels, 17th seventh month, 1866. 
Sire: The article from the Moniteur Franc, ais, disavowing the entrance on 
the administration of war and of finance by the two French generals, Osmond 
and Friant, proves that henceforth, and without a blush, the mask is cast aside. 
The mission of General Castelnau, aide-de-camp, and having the confidence of 
the Emperor, although secret, cannot have other object, in my opinion, than to 
seek to bring on a solution as soon as possible. To seek to explain its conduct, 
which history will pass upon, the French government would like that an ab- 
dication might precede the return of the army, and that thus it would be possi- 
ble for it to act alone, to reorganize a new state of things, capable of assuring its 
interests and those of its countrymen. I have an internal conviction that your 



160 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

majesty would not give this satisfaction to a policy which must in the end, sootier 
or later, he answerable for the odium of its acts and the fatal consequences which 
will be the result. The speech of Seward, the toast to Romero, the attitude of 
the President, result of the cowardice of the French cabinet, are grave facts, 
destined to increase the difficulties and discourage the boldest. However, I have 
the deep conviction that to abandon the game before the return of the French 
army would be ini erpreted as an act of weakness, and the emperor, holding his 
authority from a popular vote, it would be to the people of Mexico, relieved from 
the pressure of a foreign intervention, that he should take a new appeal ; it is for 
him to demand the material and financial support indispensable to subsistence 
and growth. 

If such appeal is not listened to, then his majesty, having accomplished 
his noble mission to its close, will return to Europe with all the prestige which 
accompanied him on his departure, and in the midst of important events, which 
will not fail to arise, will play the part which in all respects pertains to him. 

Leaving Miramar on the 4th of this month, with the purpose of embarking at 
St. Nazaire, after having received the orders of her majesty the empress, I was 
constrained again to adjourn my departure. It needed that high influence to 
change a determination which my devotion counselled as the fulfilment of a duty. 

I have been keenly disappointed in learning that my numerous despatches of 
the months of June and July had not reached your majesty in due season, put 
under cover to Bombelles, and accompanied by long letters written to that devoted 
friend, to be communicated to your majesty. I was far from anticipating his de- 
parture from Mexico. They have now lost all the interest which they derived 
from events so unforeseen, which then so rapidly succeeded each other. I regret 
above all this vexatious incident, if it should for a moment have awakened doubts 
in your majesty's mind of my unceasing desire faithfully to fulfil my duty. 

By crossing through Austria I was able to ascertain the general discontent 
which reigns throughout. Nothing is yet done. The Emperor is discouraged ; 
the people are fretful, and openly call for his abdication ; sympathies with your 
majesty are spreading, evidently, through all the territory of the empire. In 
Yenetia, a whole party calls for you, its former governor. But when a govern- 
ment disposes of elections, under the rule of universal suffrage, it is easy to fore- 
see the result. 

The cholera rages through Europe with extreme violence, and everywhere 
makes numerous victims. 

In accordance with the latest orders from your majesty, I have despatched by 
this courier a telegram in cipher to Rosas to advise your majesty of the arrival 
of General Castelnau, and of the disavowal given to Osmont and Friaut. 

I have learned through G that the doubtful attitude taken at Paris by 

2146 was becoming every day more public. For some time he heaps consider- 
ation and money on young Salvador, who don't himself understand at all why 
this change is. I think it necessary to recall the young man to my side, while 
expecting the end of his holidays. 

The state of the Emperor Napoleon's health engages seriously all Europe. 
His departure for Biarritz seems indefinitely postponed. Assurance is made 
that severe diabetes now complicates the inflammation of the bladder, which 
causes his suffering. As for her majesty, the empress Carlotta, in the midst of 
the flowers which make a garden of enchantment of Miramar, she shines in the 
full brilliancy of perfect health. 

I have the honor to be, sire, your majesty's very humble, very devoted, and 
very faithful servant and subject, 

F. ELOIN 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO 161 



Annexed to Mr. Romero's letter of October 10, 1866 : 

Sire : The article of the French Moniteur, denying that the two French gener- 
als, Osrnont and Friaut, have permission to assume the departments of war and 
finance, proves that from this time the mask is shamelessly thrown aside. The 
mission of General Castelnau, aide-de-camp and confidential servant of the Em- 
peror, although secret, can have no other aim, in my judgment, than to provoke 
a solution as soon as possible. With a view to explain its conduct, of which 
history must be the judge, the French government wishes that an abdication 
should precede the return of the army, and that thus it may be able to proceed 
alone to reorganize a new state of affairs, capable of securing its own interests 
and those of its subjects. I have a firm conviction that your majesty will not 
give this satisfaction to a policy which must sooner or later answer for the 
odious character of its acts, and for the fatal consequences which must follow 
them. The speech of Seward, the toast to Romero,* the attitude of the Presi- 
dent, results of the cowardice of the French cabinet, are grave facts, destined to 
increase the difficulties, and to discourage the bravest. Nevertheless I have a 
firm belief that the abandonment of the cause before the return of the French 
army would be interpreted as an act of weakness ; and as the emperor holds his 
authority by a popular vote it is to the Mexican people, freed from the pressure 
of a foreign intervention, that he should make a new appeal. It is from it that 
he must demand the material and financial support indispensable to the existence 
and increased greatness of the empire. 

If this appeal should not be heard, then your majesty, having accomplished 
your noble mission to the very end, will return to Europe with al] the prestige 
which accompanied you in your departure, and in the midst of the important 
circumstances which cannot fail to arise you will be able to play the role which 
by all considerations belongs to you. 

Setting out for Miramar the 4th of this month, with the intention of embark- 
ing at St. Nazaire, after having received the orders of her majesty the empress' 
I was compelled to defer my departure again. It needed this high influence to 
change a determination which my devotion urged upon me as the accomplish- 
ment of a duty. 

I was greatly disappointed upon learning that my numerous despatches of 
the months of June and July did not reach your majesty at the proper time, 
sent under cover to Bombellas, and accompanied by long letters written to that 
devoted friend, to be communicated to your majesty. 1 was far from foreseeing 
his departure from Mexico. They have lost to-day all the interest which they 
borrowed from the unexpected events which then followed so rapidly. I 
especially regret this unlucky incident if it has for one instant awakened in the 
mind of your majesty a doubt of my incessant desire to faithfully perform my duty. 

In crossing Austria I was able to observe the general discontent which reigns 
there. Nothing is yet done. The emperor is discouraged, the people impatient, 
and publicly demand his abdication. The sympathies for your majesty ostensi- 
bly extend all over the empire. In Venetia a whole party is anxious to pro- 
claim its former governor. But when a government arranges the elections under 
the rule of universal suffrage it is easy to foresee the result. 

The cholera rages all over Europe with extreme violence, and everywhere 
finds numerous victims. 

In accordance with the last orders of your majesty I send by this mail a tel- 
egram in cipher to Rosas, in order to warn your majesty of the arrival of Gen- 
eral Castelnau, and of the disavowal given to Osmont and Friaut. 

I have learned by G that the doubtful attitude taken at Paris by 

2146 becomes each day more public. For some time past he has loaded with 

* Almonte, Maximilian's minister at Paris. 
11 MEX. 



162 CONDITION OP AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

favors and money young Salvador, who himself understands nothing of this 
change. I think it is necessary to take the young man back near me until the 
end of his vacation. 

The state of the health of the Emperor N seriously disturbs all Eu- 
rope. His departure for Biarritz seems indefinitely postponed. It is said that 
a severe dibetes now complicates the inflammation of the bladder from which he 
is suffering. As for her majesty the empress Charlotte, in the midst of her 
flowers, which make Miramar an enchanting garden, she shines in all the lustre 
of perfect health. 

I have the honor to be, sire, your majesty's most humble, most devoted, and 
most faithful servant and subject, 

F. ELOEN". 

Brussels, September 17, 1866. 



[Enclosure No. 2.] 

1029, 1462, 1729, 1333, 1903; Osmont Friant 598, 163, 1395; Castelneau 
589, 2920, 223, 1060, 1846, 1170; Lavalett 1635,220,176; De Moustier 1064, 
1443, 942, 1225, 171, 1361, 192, 2146, 658, 371, 1965, 1608,943, 1270, 590, 
146, 1896, 103, 223, 2170, 1029, 715, 1296, 1997, 1785, 1205. 

F. ELOIK 

His Majesty the Emperor, Mexico. 



[Enclosure No. 3. ] 

Brussels, September 17, 1866. 
My dear DEViNCENTrES : I have received through Blain, with great pleasure, 
the details you send me about my private interests. I thank you for them very 
sincerely. I am glad to know that my horses do not consume my savings. If 
you can rent my house for $140 I shall be delighted, provided it leaves me the 
right to occupy some rooms in it at my return, which has been delayed only to 
follow the Empress's instructions. As for my part, I am very uneasy here. I 
long to return there and put myself under the orders of my sovereign, to take 
my small part in the difficulties which must soon break out. Continue, my dear 
friend, being devoted to our Emperor, and be sure that, for the time being he 
loses sight of you, he is not able to forget the devoted services you have ren- 
dered him. If you can give me details of the situation, I trust in your good 
friendship you will do it. Remember me kindly to Lambley and Sierra, and 
believe in my affectionate sentiments. 

F. ELOIN. 
For true copy from the original : 

IGNO. MARISCAL. 



[Enclosure No. 4. — Translation. ~\ 

Mr. Consul : According to his Majesty's order, I beg you as soon as possible 
to place the emperor Maximilian in possession of the telegram in cipher hereto an- 
nexed. The orders of his Majesty are to despatch it telegraphically by way of New 
Orleans, Florida, and Havana, and thence by Vera Cruz, following the telegraph, 
to Mexico. As for the despatches herewith, please also to have them reach Vera 
Cruz by the readiest means. 

Receive, Mr. Consular Agent, my cordial salutations. ' 

F. ELOIN, 
Counsellor of State on service. 
Mr. Rosas, 

Consular Agent of the empire of Mexico at New York. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 163 

No. 54. 

* Mr. Setoard to Senor Romero. 

Department of State, 

Washington, October 15, 1866. 
Sib : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of 
the 10th instant, containing various documents which were intercepted, addressed 
to the Prince Maximilian, for which be pleased to accept my thanks. 

I avail myself of this opportunity to renew to you the assurances of my most 
distinguished consideration. 

WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 
Senor Don M. Romero, Sfc., fyc, Sfc. 



No. 55. 
Senor Romero to Mr. Seward. 

[Translation.] 

Mexican Legation in the United States of America, 

Washington, October 12, 1866. 

Mr. Secretary: I have the honor to transmit to you, for the information of 
the government of the United States, the documents expressed in the accompa- 
nying index, some of which have lately come from Mexico, giving the state of 
affairs in that republic. I think proper to call your attention to the documents 
numbered 2, 4 and 6, where you will find that the French agents in Mexico con- 
tinue organizing their companies of so-called Mexican chasseurs, with the 
soldiers and officers of the French army. 

In documents marked 1 and 3 you will see that when the so-called govern- 
ment, created by the intervention, has occasion to select subaltern agents for 
any purpose whatever, it takes Frenchmen, as you may readily suppose ; and 
yet the French government calls the state of things it has created in Mexico the 
national government. 

It apears also from a circular of the French general, Friaut, intendant gene- 
ral of the expeditionary army, and appointed minister of finance for a short time 
by the usurper, that the sub-intendants of the French army were authorized by 
him to a*ct as sub-intendants, inspectors or controlers for the so-called empire. 

I accept this occasion to renew to you, Mr. Secretary, the assurances of my 
most distinguished consideration. 

M. ROMERO. 
Hon. William H. Seward, fyc, Sfc., fyc. 



164 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 



Index of documents sent hy the Mexican legation in Washington to the Depart- 
ment of State of the United States, tcith the note of this date, on the present 
state of affairs in Mexico. 



No. 



Date. 



1866. 
July 18 



Contents. 



July 


8 


Aug. 


2 


Sept. 


6 


Sept. 


10 


Sept. 


10 


Sept. 


16 


Sept. 


27 


Sept. 


30 



Circular No. 190 of the minister of finance of the so-called empire, appoint- 
ing various Frenchmen to direct the assessment of houses and lands for 
a direct tax. 

Order of the day issued by the French general, Neigre, on the 29th of June 
last, incorporating the Belgian legion in Mexico with the ninth battalion 
of the so-called Mexican chasseurs. 

Circular of the French general, Friant, authorizing the sub-intendants of 
the French army to act as sub-intendants, inspectors, and controlers for 
the so-called empire. 

An official relation, from the war department of the so-called empire, of the 
military despatches issued from the 25th of August to the 5th of September, 
from which it appears that only French officers have been appointed to 
command the corps of Mexican chasseurs. 

Correspondence from the city of Mexico, with general notices of the situa- 
tion. 

Correspondence from Vera Cruz, mentioning the enlistment of the greater 
part of the eighty-first of the French line into the corps of Mexican 
chasseurs. 

Speech of Maximilian at the anniversary meeting of the independence of 
Mexico, declaring he will not quit his post. 

Decree of Maximilian, ordering the confiscation of the property of the 
patriots who are fightirjg for the independence of Mexico. 

Letter from Vera Cruz, mentioning the return to Orizaba of the eighty-first 
of the line of the French army, that had gone to Vera Cruz to embark 
on the steamer Tampico. 



Washington, October 12, 1866. 



IGNO. MAEISCAL, Secretary. 



[Enclosure No. 1.— Circular 190.] 

Department of Finance, 

Mexico, June 18, 1866. 

His majesty the emperor has been pleased to suspend for the time being the 
appointment of director general of direct taxes, and in the mean time appoints 
that official as assessor of city and conntry property for the purpose of direct 
taxation, which he orders to be done throughout the empire, under the direction 
of the treasury inspectors, and according to the territorial division expressed 
below: : , 

Mr. Le Maistre will direct the work in the department of the valley of Mexico, 
Tula, Toluca, Tulancingo, Iturbide, Queretaro, Jalisco, Autlan, Colima, Mazat- 
lan, Matamoras, New Leon, and Coahuila. 

A credit of $15,000 is opened to defray the expenses of the assessment in 
these departments. 

Mr, Delabaume will direct the work in the departments of Puebla, Tlaxcala 
and Vera Cruz. For this expense a credit of $1,500 is opened. 

Mr. Thebault will direct in the department of Guanajuato ; and a credit of 
$2,000 is opened for the expenses. 

Mr. Derenty will direct in the departments of Aguas Calientes, Zacatecas and 
Fresnilla, at the expense of $2,500. 

Mr. Sauvalle will direct in the departments of Durango and San Luis Potosi, 
at an expense of $1,500. These inspectors shall nominate controllers to act 
under their orders in the departments where they are appointed, who get their 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 165 

commissions from the treasury department, and receive a salary specified in their 
commissions. 

The open credits will be paid to the orders of the chief inspectors, who are 
required to give an account of the sums they receive. This I make known to 
you for your information and consequent action, so that you may give the neces- 
sary aid to the persons appointed as it may be required. 

E. VILLALVA, 
Sub-secretary of Finance. 

It was circulated among the civil prefects of the departments and imperial com- 
missaries of the territorial divisions. 



[Enclosure No. 2. ] 

Mexico, July S, 1866. 

A serious spell of sickness prevented me from writing to you by the last 
steamers, but you have lost nothing by waiting, for I have some important news 
to communicate. In the first place you must know that the Belgian legion, 
after a mutiny at Monterey, was disbanded and incorporated with the ninth 
battalion of Mexican Hunters. This news, which caused a great sensation in 
Mexico — particularly in the Belgian colony — was followed by a report of the 
arrest of Colonel Vandersmissen, which turned out false. 

As to the act of insubordination committed by our countrymen, many causes 
were given for it. The pretext was a delay of some weeks in pay, but dissat- 
isfaction had prevailed for some time. The Belgians complain that none of the 
promises made them on their departure from Belgium have been kept. Some 
say the bounty money has never been paid them. The Tacambaro prisoners 
claim their back pay during the time of their captivity. 

There was, in reality, no outbreak, but seditious words were uttered in the 
presence of the commander by angry men, ill paid, badly clothed, and, perhaps, 
excited by drink. 

The order issued by General Neigre the next day, the 29th of June, fixes 
the future position of this Belgian corps : 

"His majesty the emperor Maximilian has decided that the Belgian contin- 
gent as now organized shall be disbanded. 

" A battalion of cazadores shall be formed of the elements that compose it, 
and shall be called Battalion No. 9 of the Empress's Hunters. Soldiers that en- 
listed for six years will be compelled to remain in the service of the emperor of 
Mexico till the expiration of their term of service ; and also those officers who 
were only soldiers at the time of their arrival, and not officers in the Belgian 
army. Those of them who wish to quit Mexico will be discharged, but will not 
be sent back nor indemnified by the Mexican government. 

" The Mexican government will retain the officers in the same grade they 
had in the Belgian contingent as Mexican officers. Officers of the Belgian army 
who obtained a two years' leave from their government to serve in Mexico will 
be consulted personally to know if they wish a continuance of leave in order 
to serve in Mexico. 

" Those wishing to remain will be put into the battalion of Hunters ; those 
who desire to return to Belgium will be sent to Mexico. As there will be no 
colonel in this new organization, Mr. Vandersmissen cannot belong to it ; he 
must, therefore, present himself in Mexico and receive orders from his majesty 
the emperor. 

" Marshal Bazaine orders General Douay to disband the body immediately 
and to proceed to its reorganization anew. 

"B. NEIGRE, 
" General Commanding ilie Auxiliary Division." 



166 CONDITION OP AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

[Enclosure No. 3. — From La Sociedad. — Mexico, August 28, 1866.] 
TREASURY DIVISION. 

The following was published in Zacatecas : 

DEPARTMENT OF FINANCE — MILITARY SUB-INTENDANCY — TREASURY IN- 
SPECTOR OF THE STATE OF GUANAJUATO. 

Leon, August 2, 1866. 
To the Citizen Prefect : 

The military intendant, Mr. Friaut, appointed minister of finance, charges 
me to send you the following despatch, which was received by telegraph : 

"The minister of finance gives full power to sub-intendants or officers to per- 
form the duties of sub-intendants, inspectors, and controllers in all the offices of 
finance, each in his respective department. The prefects will accredit these 
officers to the chief of the bureau. 

"FRIAUT, Minister of Finance." 

Accept, Mr. Prefect, the assurances of my high consideration. 

DAMARTIAS, 
Military Sub-inspector of the Treasmy in the Department of Guana juata. 



1 Enclosure No. 4. — From the Diario del Imperio, September 6, 1866.] 

Official military despatches, War Department. — Despatches sent from this de- 
partment between the 21th of August and the 5th instant. 

APPOINTMENTS. 

Luis Rovichon, sergeant of the French army, as assistant depositary for the 
fifth battalion of the line. 

Sergeant Adrian Page, sub-instructor for the same corps. 
. Carlos Victor Francois, sergeant of the French army, as assistant treasurer 
for the twelfth of the line. 

Carlos A. Coffer, of the same grade in the French army, as sub-instructor for 
the same corps. 

Carlos A. Maunier, same rank, as assistant depositary for the same battalion. 

Isidoro E. Breset, same rank in the French army, as assistant treasurer for 
the sixth battalion of the line. 

Luis E. Trorey, of the same grade in the French army, as sub-instructor for 
the same corps. 

For the first battalion of hunters — promotions. — Commander F. A. L. Desan- 
dre to be lieutenant colonel ; Captain Miguel V. Bellin to be battalion com- 
mander. 

Second battalion. — Commander L. A. D. Chabrol to be lieutenant colonel, and 
Captain Gustave Badon to be battalion commander. 

Third battalion. — Commander Carlos Leon Guillemain to be lieutenant colo- 
nel, and Captain Luis J. Lanes to be battalion commander. 

Fourth battalion. — Commander Juan F. Herbe to be lieutenant colonel, and 
Captain Julio Bonet battalion commander. 

Fifth battalion. — Commander Emile Layn to be lieutenant colonel, and Cap- 
tain Juan S. Lanause commandant. 

Sixth battalion. — Commander Leon Didier to be lieutenant colonel, and Cap- 
tain Simon Sorlieu commandant. 

Seventh battalion. — Commander P. L. Maurant to be lieutenant colonel, and 
Captain B. A. Poviel commandant. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 167 

Eighth battalion. — Commander Zacharias If. Festal, to be lieutenant colonel; 
Serjeant Juan P. Forche, sub-lieutenant of the battalion of the line; Sergeant 
Juan F. Jenni, sub-lieutenant in the same corps; Francis Finelli and Pablo 
Fisian, sub-lieutenants in the fourth battalion of hunters; and Captain Manuel 
Aviles, of the aids, to be captain of infantry. 



[Enclosure No. 5.] 

City of Mexico, Monday, September 10, 1866. 

Up to tbe present time Napoleon has not given any orders, either direct or 
indirect, countermanding the order for the evacuation of this country by his ex- 
peditionary corps. 

Every idle rumor from Paris is construed into a favorable circumstance by the 
insignificantly small party of imperial Mexicans. Men like Seiior Don Jose 
Maria de Landa, who were directly instrumental in securing Napoleon's inter- 
vention in Mexican affairs, are very deeply interested in all the phases of Mexi- 
can politics. Such men fear — and they have publicly expressed their fears — 
that the return of the liberal or republican government will be the signal for the 
confiscation of their estates and exiling them to some inhospitable portion of 
sterile Yucatan, where now so many patriotic liberals are banished to by the 
monarchical power temporarily residing at, and presiding over, the " halls of the 
Montezuraas." A very large majority of the wealthy Mexicans who have been 
identified with the imperial farce during the last four years are realizing their 
property, preparatory to going abroad and viewing the settlement that must 
shortly take place here from a secure and hospitable stand-point. Many have 
already gone. 

Xo great emigration of the Mochos may be counted upon, for the adherents 
of the empire are very few, and have been growing less and less during the last 
twelve months. 

There are not a dozen families of the capital that are avowed imperialists, and 
we allege, after much careful observation, that there are not twenty wealthy 
men of Mexico who would gather round Maximilian in an hour of trouble. 

So destructive has been the policy pursued by the emperor while here that 
it is asserted there is not a merchant nor even a French dealer in the. country 
(and there are thousands of French merchants and miners) who does not desire 
him to abdicate and evacuate the country. 

NATIONAL BANKRUPTCY. 

Commerce is paralyzed. The so-called government is a bankrupt usurpa- 
tion, hourly threatened with overwhelming numbers of outraged patriots, who, 
though poorly clad, still more poorly armed, without pay or hope of reward, are 
gathering round their chie/tain's standard, to overwhelm and crush, with one 
powerful blow, the enemies of their country's liberties and sacred rights. 

EXECUTIONS. 

The imperialists have hung and executed by bullet and garrote without trial ; 
they have branded the liberals as brigands, outlawed them, confiscated their 
homes and desecrated their land, and no wonder that the friends of the monarchy 
are fearful and dread the change of government, that cannot, at the furthest, be 
postponed until January, 1S67. 

The tone of the imperial press is very mournful. Not a day passes without 
rumors of the pronouncing against the empire of influential leaders, the evacu- 
ation of cities, and the gathering of the liberals. 



168 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 



[Enclosure No. 6.] 

Vera Cruz, September 10 — 10 p. m.; 1866. 

To-day those who study the changes in the situation with great care exhibited 
a very considerable degree of uneasiness in consequence of some strange reports 
which were received from the interior. To-day it was generally said that the 
eighty- first French regiment of the line was en route for Vera Cruz to embark at 
once for Europe, but on investigation it was found that only one battalion of 
said regiment was coming down, and that the remaining portion (from 1,500 to 
2,000 men) were ready to take up the flag of the empire (dropping the flag of 
France) as soon as the battalion particularly specified above left Mexico. We 
know it to be a fact that France's money is being expended in large amounts, 
in every direction, to increase the strength of the imperial army. And we also 
know that, notwithstanding the several moves already made, there is nothing to 
show that it is the sincere intention of France to leave the country. 

In to-day's issue of La Revista, of this city, we find the following : 

The last news from Europe relative to Mexican affairs contradicts some of the 
reports received by the Sonora. * * * The French government permits 
the enlistment in France of volunteers, and will give to the imperial government 
of Mexico arms and munitions of war. The return of the expeditionary corps, 
nevertheless, will take place as has been stated. 

Those who have studied the very latest developments are asking : " What 
difference will it make to the United States government whether Maximilian is 
supported by French regiments, directly known as such, or French regiments in 
disguise under the colors of the empire if" 



[Enclosure No. 7.] 

Maximilian's speech on the 16th of September, 1S66. 

Mexicans : Now for the third time, as chief of the nation, T celebrate with 
you with pleasure and enthusiasm our great and glorious family festival. In 
these days of patriotic remembrances it is always a necessity on my part to ad- 
dress frank and faithful words to my patriotic fellow-citizens, and to participate 
with them in the general rejoicings. Fifty-six years- have passed since was 
heard the first cry of our nation's new birth. It is a half century during which 
Mexico has been struggling for her independence and pacific consolidation. The 
time seems long, undoubtedly, for patriotism is justly impatient, but in the his- 
tory of a people just coming into life it is simply the period of a severe appren- 
ticeship, which every nation must undergo if it wishes to be one day great and 
powerful. Without blood and without affliction there are no great human tri- 
umphs, no political developments, no durable progress. The lesson which this 
first period of our free history addresses to us is tkat of ultimate sacrifices, of 
cordial, generous,. and frank union, and, more than all, immutable faith in our 
success. Let all loyal patriots support with energy, each in his sphere, the 
great work of regeneration. Then my labors will not be sterile, and I will be 
aide to follow, conscientiously, the difficult path on which I have entered. Let 
them have confidence and good will, in order that we may one day reap the 
fruits so desired of peace and prosperity. I am still firm in the position which 
the votes of the nation have made me occupy, notwithstanding all the difficul- 
ties, and without failing in my duties ; for it is not in adverse moments that a 
true Ilapsburg abandons his post. The majority of the nation elected me to 
defend its most sacred rights against the enemies of order, property, and true 
independence. The Almighty should, therefore, protect us, it being a sacred 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 169 

truth that " the voice of the people is the voice of God." This was shown in a 
miraculous manner at the time of our first national rising; it will be shown in 
the present regeneration. The great heroes of our country look upon our efforts. 
Let us follow their immortal examples without vacillation, without distrust ; 
and to us will then belong the enviable task of consolidating and crowning the 
work of independence, which they began with their precious blood. 

Mexicans ! long live our independence and the memory of its glorious martyrs ! 



[Enclosure No. 8.] 



Maximilian, emperor of Mexico : 

With the advice of our ministerial council, we have determiued to decree and 
have decreed as follows : 

Article 1. All property belonging to persons now residing out of the coun- 
try, or in places held by the disaffected, who oppose the imperial government 
adopted by the people of Mexico, shall be administered in each district by a 
special committee composed of the municipal alcalde, the collector of revenue 
and a proprietor named by the prefect. 

Article 2. The sale of this property is forbidden while the owners remain 
in the ranks of the enemies to order and the empire. 

Article 3. The revenue from this property shall forma special and separate 
fund for the exclusive benefit of the families that have suffered by the war 
which the disaffected are waging against the empire. 

Article 4. The accounts of this fund shall be kept in the treasury depart- 
ment. 

Article 5. At the end of each month the amount received shall be distrib- 
uted among the families whose wants are considered just and well founded. The 
distribution shall be determined by the council of ministers. 

Article 6. Our ministers of government and finance are charged with the 
execution of this decree in the part that concerns them. 

Done in Mexico on the 27th of September, 1866. 

MAXIMILIAN. 

By the emperor : 

TEOFILO MARIN, 

Minister of Government. 

By the emperor: 

JOAQUIN TORRES LARRAINZAR, 
Acting Minister of Finance. 



[Enclosure No. 9. ] 
Extract of a private letter dated Vera Cruz, Septe?nber 30, 1S66. 

The eighty-first regiment French infantry arrived at Vera Cruz on the 26th 
of this month, ready to embark on board the steamer Tampico, the first of the 
transports which is to bring the army back to France. The others are the 
Rhone, the Calvados, the Giroude andl'Avegron, now on the eve of sailing from 
Havre to Vera Cruz. During the short stay of the eighty-first at Vera Cruz 
telegraphic despatch from General Bazaine came, ordering the regiment to fall 
back upon Orizaba, where it has actually gone. 

As an explanation for this retrograde movement it is stated that marshal Ba- 
zaine had received a telegram from Europe by the Atlantic cable via New Or- 
leans and the steamer Sonora, by which he had been advised that General de 



170 CONDITION OF AFFAIES IN MEXICO. 

Castelnau was on his way to Vera Cruz, and that the wishes of the French 
government were to suspend the embarcation of the French troops until he had 
arrived. This, of course, has given rise to several comments, which, resting on 
no foundation, are not worth reproducing here. 

The Rajaro Verde of August 1 says of the eighty-first regiment, stationed 
at the city of Mexico : " A French officer assures us that, in fulfilment of or- 
ders, this corps will leave for France in November ; but as all who wish can 
remain in the service of Mexico, it is said that of nearly all the battalions only 
the colonel and the musicians will embark at Vera Cruz for their mother coun- 
try. We do not hold ourselves responsible for this statement." 



No. 56. 

Mr. Seward to Senor Romero. 

Department of State, 

Washington, November 15, 1866. 
S[R : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of 
the 12th ultimo, containing various documents relating to the state of affairs in 
Mexico, for which be pleased to accept my thanks. 

I avail myself of this opportunity to renew to you the assurances of my most 
distinguished consideration. 



Senor Don M. Romero, fyc, frc., fyc. 



WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 



No. 57. 

Senor Romero to Mr. Hunter. 
[Translation. ] 

Mexican Legation, 

Washington, November 5, 1866. 
The minister of the Mexican republic presents his compliments to William Hun- 
ter, esq., and has the honor to transmit several late articles from the Paris press 
relating to Mexican affairs and containing important information, showing the 
change of public opinion in France in regard to that delicate question. 



[Enclosure No. 1. — From La Liberty. — Translation.] 
THE EVACUATION OF MEXICO. 

Paris, October 3, 1866. 

The recent news from Mexico is of a serious nature that does not surprise us' 
but requires prompt action on the part of the government. Why should we be 
longer deceived by words and illusions 1 Everybody believes that the Mexican 
empire is near its end, and we need not try to prolong the agony of a dying 
government. The truth is we had better wind up the unfortunate affair at once. 
It is plain that France only makes additional sacrifices in endeavoring to carry 
out an expedition that should not have been commenced. To keep up the em- 
pire we must support Maximilian with fifty thousand men and five hundred mil- 
lions of francs, and risk a profitless war with the United States ; and it is certain 
France will not consent to such a sacrifice, so the business better be closed up 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 171 

at once. First, let Maximilian resign. On this point there will be no trouble. 
He accepted the place reluctantly, and will give it up without hesitation. His 
ignorance of the country, and what he was to undertake, will excuse him before 
the world. 

"When Maximilian is gone France will be in the same position towards Mexico 
that she was before the vote of the notables electing him ; that is, she will front 
an enemy, with whom she will have to treat on the best terms. She will not 
venture to start another government, but will treat with Juarez, because he is 
our opponent, and his re-establishment is the only way to get out of the difficulty. 
But will Juarez grant us the conditions we want? We are not sure, but it is 
certain he will purchase our evacuation on the best terms. Another question 
is, will Juarez's terms be enforced by Mexico ? We fear not. But as it would 
be the same with any oiher ruler, better trust him. 

What he can grant is the lives of our countrymen, and that is of the most 
importance at present. The Mexican expedition will be a serious loss in money, 
and it will be a check to our progressive policy, but it cannot be prevented. 
But we must not shock the world with the sad sight of our murdered country- 
men, when it is known the expedition was got up to protect them. That would 
be worse than all, and our last duty now is to prevent it. 

We have conquered the Mexicans wherever we have met them, and all we 
have to keep us there is our regard for Maximilian. Let him abdicate and re- 
store us to our liberty, and all that will remain for us to do will be to secure 
the safety of our countrymen. 

But the most important, what is absolutely necessary, is a prompt and ener- 
getic decision to put an end to the crisis instead of prolonging it. 

CLEMENT DUVERXOIS. 



[Enclosure No. 2.] 
THE MEXICAN EMPIRE. 

The following telegram from the emperor Maximilian was handed to the 
Patrie yesterday by the Mexican legation : 

[Yalentia, October 9, 1 o'clock a. m.J 

Chapultepec, September 27. 
To General Almonte, Paris : - 

You will inform the legations that excellent spirits prevail among all classes. 
The cabinet is formed at last. "We are on the best terms with our allies. The 
railway is open to Apizaco. 

MAXIMILIAN. 



[Enclosure No. 3.— From the Standard of October 10, 1866.] 
THE MEXICAN DEBT. 

October has come and the holders of Mexican bonds are asking if their ar- 
rearages are to be paid. 

The empress Charlotte's late visit to Paris ; the interviews of that young, 
intelligent and courageous sovereign, evidently on a secret mission ; the last ex- 
aggerated accounts from Mexico, from United States correspondents, without 
doubt, have excited all sorts of suspicions. 

These questions are put : 



172 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

Is the French government responsible for the principal and interest of the 
Mexican bonds ? What is the extent and character of that responsibility 1 
We have already said what we think of the duties of France towards Mexico ; 
we will now examine its financial responsibility for the loans negotiated by the 
State. 

In the first place, we must consider the origin of these loans, the part our 
government took in their issue, and the use made of the sums realized. 

As regards the use of the funds, we will borrow from an article of A. Cochut 
in the Temps, which is known not to favor the Mexican expedition. Maximil- 
ian accepted the empire by the treaty of Miramax. In one of its clauses it 
says : France shall be paid the expenses of the expedition, for all private claims, 
and the war shall be carried on by the forces of the new empire with those of 
the allies. 

By virtue of that clause the Mexican government negotiated a loan of 
16,762,000 francs, in six per cents., at 63 francs, in 1864 ; 6,600,000 of this 
went into the treasury for indemnities. The rest was raised in London and 
Paris, and amounted to 102,000,000. 

In 186/) there was a second loan, 500,000 bonds at 340 francs, giving a total 
of 170,000,000, both loans yielding 272,000,000; expenses to be deducted, 
26,000,000, leaving a net profit of 246,000,000. 

The sum was used in this way : For reimbursing the principal in fifty years, 
34,000,000 francs ; interest, premium, &c, 54,000,000 francs ; the old Mexican 
debt paid in London, 22,000,000 francs ; to the government, for war expenses, 
&c, 102,000,000 ; making the entire sum realized on both the loans, 212,000,000 
francs. Of this Mexico got only 34 millions, with the 22 millions paid to London. 

Thus France made one hundred and two millions out of the Mexican loan. 

The 6,600,000 in the treasury of the '64 loan were exchanged, in 1865, for 
174,000 bonds of the second loan, and 60,000 of them were recently sold. This 
seems to be assuming a responsibility for the loan. 

According to Cochut, then, there are. yet 114,000 bonds in the treasury un- 
sold ; 47,000 are reserved to pay French claims, leaving 83,000 to the credit of 
the Mexican commission. 756,000 bonds, making the sum of 192,000,000, 
have been put into the French treasury by individuals, to pay the expenses of 
the expedition. It seems to us the French government ought to be responsible 
for the people's money used by it for the Mexican expedition. 

Now, if the Mexican empire fails, the French .creditors lose, and the govern- 
ment ought to pay them. We do not hesitate to say, then, that we are in justice 
bound for the Mexican bonds to French creditors. If Mexico cannot pay, 
France must ; that is the short of it. 

Let us look into the Moniteurs of the 11th and 12th April, 1S65. Here we 
find the report of Mr. Costa encouraging the new monarchy, and the minister 
of state repeats it to the public ; but he takes care to add : " It is not a question 
of responsibility for the Mexican loan." It is plain the French government is 
not legally responsible for the loan. But the bond-holders reason after this 
fashion : 

The government authorized the loan, and employed its officers to negotiate it; 
it formed a Mexican finance commission to act for its interests ; a minister of 
finance was sent to the emperor Maximilian ; the useless bonds of the first loan 
were exchanged for good ones; it paid the troops in Mexico with our money; 
old Mexican debts were paid in London with our money ; for these reasons the 
French government is responsible for the Mexican loans. 

We will speak plainly. 

We cannot deny that Mr. Costa's report, the support of the plan before the 
legislature, the authorization of the government, the Mexican commission, had a 
certain influence on the sale of the bonds ; but the twelve per cent, interest and 
the prizes had a greater. The government ought not and will not deny its 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 173 

responsibility in this affair ; but to charge the French people with the entire 
burden of those loans would be too much. 

The fact is this : 

France favored the issue of the loans, hoping to establish a new nation as the 
result of its expedition. It used a large portion of the money raised to pay the 
expenses of the expedition and put down Juarez. It took part in the loan, and 
is certainly liable as far as the advantages it derived from it. 

If the bond-holders have not the law on their side, at least they can rely upon 
the honesty and justice of France in all her transactions. 

A. DE FEULGOEL. 



[Enclosure No. 4. — From the Opinion Nationale, Paris, October 11, 1866.] 
THE END OF THE MEXICAN BUSINESS. 

Of all affairs occupying the public at present we may truly say that none hang 
so heavily on the mind as the prospective and much desired end of the Mexican 
expedition. 

We do not intend to go over an affair we have so often discussed, but we 
have a fact to state : our flag is about to quit the shores of Mexico. Mr. Drouyn 
de Lhuys, in his despatch of the Gth of April last, closing his long correspond- 
ence with the United States, used these formal words : 

" The Emperor has decided that the French troops shall quit Mexico in three 
detachments. The first is to leave in November, 1866 ; the second, in March, 
1867 ; and the third, in November of that same year. You will please inform 
the Secretory of State officially of that decision?' 

If this is not exactly a formal promise to the government of the United 
States, it is at least an official notice of a disposition to accede to the wishes of 
that government, and puts an end to a long correspondence on the important 
subject. We are assured that the evacuation will begin next month. But 
rumor says, since that despatch, the French government is convinced that with- 
drawing the army in parcels will leave the rest unprotected, and there is hope 
that the whole army will return in November. 

What will take place in Mexico after the army leaves'? If Maximilian is as 
firmly fixed as he says, he will have to depend entirely on " the good disposi- 
tion that everywhere prevails," and go on with his hard work of founding an 
empire. 

If, on the other hand, his government cannot get on without our aid, he will 
return to Europe with our army. At all events, he has played his part in 
Mexico ; our fear of a war with the United States is over, and we shall spend 
no more money for Mexico. We will then attend to our own business at home, 
and watch affairs in Europe. That will be quite enough to keep us busy, and 
our people's minds will be relieved from a great weight. 

But the relief would be greater if the government would say if it intends to 
secure two points of exceeding interest to Frenchmen, viz., will it protect our 
countrymen in Mexico, and will it pay the Mexican loan debts ? We don't 
know how we can protect our friends in Mexico after our army has left. That 
depends on circumstances ; but we hope the government will do its best to 
shield them amidst the anarchy that will prevail when our troops are gone. 

As to indemnification to the bond-holders, that is easy. It is generally 
believed the government will pay them. Most of the loan went into the trea- 
sury, and of course the government will repay what it took from the people. 
We cannot say for certain what the government will do ; but it must do some- 
thing, and that promptly. Quod fads, fac citius ! must be the motto, for two 



174 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

reasons;, one is, all delay in financial matters causes loss. "If there is delay, 
the purchasers at a low rate will be gainers ; the other is, to bury the Mexican 
expedition as soon as possible in oblivion, and have its funeral preached to calm 
the world. 

AD. GUEROULT. 



[Enclosure No. 5.— From La Liberty Paris, October 12, 1866.] 
FRRXCH INTERESTS. 

To questions put by La Liberte, the Pays makes this reply on Mexican 

affairs : 

"We answer the questions in La Liberte after this fashion : The mental con- 
dition of the empress Charlotte is unfortunately very serious. This blow, adding 
to Maximilian's other troubles, will most likely cause him to relinquish his hard 
task. We do not want the public to be deceived by the despatch we published 
yesterday. Tiie French government is deeply interested in Maximilian's return 
from Mexico, and General Oastelnau is the bearer of definite instructions, 
though we cannot say precisely what they are. But one thing is certain, Napo- 
leon will never consent, at any price, to give up Mexico without securing French 
interests, let it cost ivhat it will. 

" PAUL DE CASSAGNAC." 

Such is the question, and now we will give the answer. The Pays agree with 
us that Maximilian must abdicate ; so we tell the Patrie the empire is done, ac- 
cording to the Pays's candid confession. But how are we to protect our country- 
men when Maximilian quits ? That is what the Pays cannot tell us. It says 
the government will not give up Mexico without giving the most complete 
guarantee to French interests. How is the government to do that ? we ask our 
honorable colleague. We see no other issue than that proposed in the treaty of 
Soledad, three years ago. Are the French interests the Pays alludes to in 
France or Mexico 1 If they are in France, why prolong the Mexican expedition 1 
Nothing has been gained by it yet. We went to war for a few millions, and 
we have spent two hundred and fifty millions. First, the French claims, in- 
cluding Jecker's, amounted to a few millions ; now, they amount to many mil- 
lions. At first, Frenchmen were treated as well as any other foreigners in 
Mexico, now we don't know but they may be murdered to-morrow. That 
is the balance sheet ! After making the mistake of trying to found an empire, 
now it is down, let us resume our liberty of action. 

Must we be responsible for a new government that can be no better than the 
first ? Must we risk a war with the United States by staying in Mexico ? 
That is what the Pays means by saying the Emperor will secure French in- 
terests at all risks ! It wants a new sacrifice of men and money ; it wants a 
war with the United States. 

We do not regard French interests in that light. It was not to the interest 
of France to begin the Mexican expedition ; and when commenced, it was 
France's interest to stop at Soledad with England and Spain. When France 
was left alone, it was her interest to treat with the Mexican government after 
the capture of Puebla and the occupation of the city of Mexico. After founding 
a government and assuming a guardianship of it, France ought, to have lent it 
money at six per cent., and not have cheated it out of many millions. 

We have said this before, and not in passion or with a party spirit. Now we 
say there are but two roads to pursue in Mexican affairs : 

If we try to make Mexico a French province, we shall have war with the 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 175 

United States ; if we withdraw with Maximilian and treat with Juarez, we shall 
have peace. As we have always been victorious in Mexico, we can retire with 
honor, which is of great importance. There remains then but one political 
mistake to correct, one debt to liquidate. " A money wound is not mortal," 
says the proverb. That is true, if it be properly dressed and not' allowed to 

mortify. 

CLEMENT DUVERNOIS. 



the rights of juarez. 

All the papers favoring French intervention in Mexico make much noise about 
the differences between Juarez and Ortega, and with strange inconsistency grant 
rights to the latter which they refuse to the former. 

For the benefit of history Ave will correct these mistakes. According to the 
constitution of the Mexican republic, in case of the President's death, the presi- 
dent of the supreme court succeeds to power. Now, in 1862, Ortega was presi- 
dent of that court, while Juarez was President of the republic. During that 
year Ortega was made chief of the eastern division of the army, and marched to 
defend Puebla. While besieged in that city, congress, mindful of the risks he 
ran there, deposed him from chief justice and put a lawyer named Ruiz in his 
place. 

When Juarez's time expired in 1865, extraordinary circumstances induced a 
large number of Mexicans to re-elect Juarez. Ruiz protested against that 
election. Ortega's protest was null and void, for he was no longer president of 
the supreme court, and had no right to the presidency of the republic. The 
government at Washington is right ; for as long as it has a minister accredited 
near Juarez, it will not notice the pretensions and protests of Ortega. 

H. PESSARD. 



[Enclosure No. 6.— From Le Siecle, Paris, October 12, 1866.] 
LET US FINISH THE MEXICAN BUSINESS. 

All the papers this morning are commenting upon the telegram sent by the 
emperor Maximilian to General Almonte, his representative in Paris. It seems 
all is going on well ; all the people are well disposed ; the cabinet is formed ; 
and the best understanding prevails between Mexico and its allies. There is 
no doubt about this, for the information comes from the emperor himself. 
Since things are going on so well there, why does not the French government 
take advantage of circumstances, put an end to the unlucky expedition, and 
withdraw our army ? What prevents it from giving this satisfaction to public 
opinion 1 Unfortunately the Moniteur keeps a sullen silence on this serious 
subject. Nobody knows what will be done, and guessers have full play. 
Foi eign papers are filled with Paris correspondence, purporting to be reliable, 
giving all sorts of plans and projects and impossible combinations, which the 
cunning use to the great damage of the credulous. 

We would like to know the intentions of the French government, not only 
in regard to our army in Mexico, but in regard to the Mexican debt, which is 
daily becoming more grievous to the bondholders. The obligations are depre- 
ciating, to the great injury of the original purchasers, and the silence of the 
government increases the trouble. Why not enlighten us on the subject ? 

Tins is the propitious moment. Maximilian says he has no more need of us, 
since harmony prevails among all classes of the population. Let the govern- 



176 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

inent then agree with Maximilian upon a guarantee of French interests, and 
brin(' our army back as soon as possible, as it will have to be done sooner or 

later. 

The European horizon is gloomy : peace has hardly been signed between 
Prussia and Austria, when we hear rumors of another war. Prussian papers 
openly proclaim the warlike projects of the Berlin cabinet. To humble and 
degrade Austria, destroy her if necessary ; to bring Paris to her senses ; to 
impose laws upon the world ; nothing seems impossible to King William. 

Who knows how far the infatuation of a first triumph may carry him ] Only 
a few days ago Prussia tried to prevent Austria from appointing a certain min- 
ister. Prussia might go further, and France might be called upon to stop 
her in her fits of audacity and folly. But to do this France will want all her 
forces now scattered over the world. France is strong, but she must let the 
world know it for once. To do this, we must recall all our foreign expeditions. 
The convention of the 25th of September recalls our army from Rome ; and now 
we must bring back our troops from Mexico. We should not have gone to that 
distant country, and our presence is certainly not needed there now. Why 
delay ? If there are reasons for continuing the occupation, let them be known. 
But there are none. All the interests we have to defend now are the interests 
of the Mexican bondholders. Let the government think of that and decide. 
There is no time to be lost, for we are threatened from two quarters. The 
present condition of Europe requires all our strength at home, and our finances 
are damaged by the depreciation of the Mexican obligations. We must put an 
end to this. A decision is urgent, for many reasons, and Maximilian's despatch 
makes it easy. France has other and better business than weaning monarchies ; 
she has something more manly to do. The government was mistaken when it 
thought it could found a monarchy in Mexico. If Maximilian's despatch is 
true, the empire is fixed. France has done her work ; let her be gone. If 
Maximilian is mistaken, if France is deceived, if the Mexican baby empire is 
not viable, let us confess our error and retire, since we have done all we could ; 
we have reached the extreme limit of our sacrifices in men and money. What- 
ever process of reasoning be adopted, the conclusion must be the same. 
Let us finish this Mexican business ! 



[Enclosure No. 7. — From the Opinion Nationale.] 

Paris, Octoher 13, 1866. 

We read in the Pays as follows : 

" The mental condition of the empress Charlotte is unfortunately very serious. 
The unexpected attack has so much increased the difficulties of the situation, 
that it is doubtful if the emperor Maximilian will continue his thankless task. 
We do not want the public to be deceived by the despatch we published yester- 
day. The French government is deeply interested in Maximilian's return from 
Mexico, and General Castelnau is the bearer of definite instructions, though we 
cannot say precisely what they are. But one thing is certain — Napoleon will 
never consent, at any price, to give up Mexico without securing French interests. 

" PAUL DE CASSAGNAO." 

These lines give a special character to the paper publishing them, and to 
which we must call attention. The Pays, after publishing the despatch, says 
we must not be deceived by it, and assures us the French government is much 
interested in Maximilian's return ; hence we conclude the empire, founded and 
maintained by our soldiers, is lost. 

We are much pleased with this declaration of the Pays, if it be true, that the 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 177 

French government has decided to give up an enterprise that has cost us so much 
blood and money, and which should never have been undertaken. Our inter- 
vention has lasted long enough. We have injured our finances and unfurled 
our flag in distant regions, risking a war with the United States, already too 
long, while events at our very doors called our strict attention. France is cer- 
tainly opulent and powerful; hut while so many changes are taking place in 
Europe, it is her duty to attend to interests at home. 

The regeneration of Mexico, by our arms, or by the efforts of Maximilian, is 
an impossibility, and we should have known it on the day that Spain and 
England gave up the expedition to us. It is never too late to do good; and the 
day that our soldiers quit that unlucky land will be a thrice happy day, even if 
it be the dying day of the Mexican empire. 

When the Pays says that the Emperor Napoleon will not give up Mexico 
"till our interests arc assured," we readily believe it; but it is easier to write 
this than to effect it. What does the Pays mean ? What will the Emperor do ? 
If the Pays knew, it should have told us. It seems to us that extreme means 
have already been used by the Emperor, for many years, by an armed and 
expensive occupation of a vast country without arresting the civil war for a 
single day or gaining anything but an increase of a debt against a government 
that is already insolvent. 

ARTHUR ARNOOLD. 



No. 58. 

Mr. Seward to SeTwr Romero. 

Department of State, 

Washington, November 13, 1866. 
The Secretary of State has the honor to acknowledge the receipt of a com- 
munication from the minister of Mexico of the 5th instant, containing several 
articles from the Paris press relative to Mexican affairs. 
Seiior Don M. Romero, Sfc., Sfc., Sp. 



No. 59. 

Senor Romero to Mr. Seioard. 

[Translation.] 

Washington, November 9, 1866. 
My Dear Sir : Believing you would like to see the detailed and authentic 
accounts of the infirmity that afflicts Madam Charlotte Leopoldine, ex-archduchess 
of Austria, I send you a copy of a communication from Don Joaquin Velazquez 
de Leon, called minister of Maximilian in Rome, directed to his master from that 
city on the 18th of October last, informing him of all that had happened up to 
that time. 

I may as well say the original of the communication is in my possession. 
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

M. ROMERO. 
Hon. William H. Seward, fyc, Sfc, fyc. 

12 mex. 



178 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 



Communication of Velasquez de Leon, minister at Rome, to Maximilian, in 

Mexico. 

Sire: I proceed to inform your majesty of the particulars of the unfortunate 
and unexpected events of the last few days. 

We could imagine many calamities to Mexico, but it certainly never entered 
our minds, when we were admiring the courage and heroic valor of her majesty 
the empress at leaving your majesty, enduring the dangers and fatigues of the 
bad roads to Vera Cruz, in the rainy season, in the midst of yellow fever ; 
crossing the ocean and coming as a great negotiatrix, to demand rights for Mex- 
ico and the execution of treaties, that she would be so ungraciously received in 
Paris as to affect her majesty's mind so seriously. 

The desperate condition of Mexico, a country so much beloved by her ma- 
jesty, undoubtedly had much influence in the mental excitement, but she showed 
some symptoms of derangement at Puebla and Acultzingo. The effects of her re- 
ception in Paris were so strong that she had to stop in Botzen, on the way to 
Pome, where she imagined she saw Paulino Lamadrid in disguise, playing an 
organ, and fancied herself surrounded by Napoleon's spies and traitors, who 
had poisoned her. On account of the unexpected delay at Botzen I did not 
meet her majesty at Orti, whither I had gone with Bishop Ramirez to receive 
her, because Seiior Degohado was sick. A committee from the pontifical gov- 
ernment also went to meet her. 

Telegraphic despatches on the way informed me that her majesty would ar- 
rive at Ancona, and we went there, where we heard she had stopped at Botzen. 
While there we visited the holy temple of Loretto. 

Her majesty the empress arrived on the 25th, and we left by an express train 
for Pome, where we arrived at 11 o'clock at night. At the first water station 
her majesty sent for me to come to her car, where she was alone with Madame 
del Barrio, her lady of honor, and asked me the state of affairs in Rome. Our 
conference lasted over two hours. Her majesty concluded by saying I was as 
well informed on affairs in Mexico as in Rome, and promised to act by my di- 
rections here. Her reasoning was very sensible and logical, and I did not once 
suspect that mental agitation that subsequently developed itself. 

On the 26th her majesty rested iu Rome, and the next day we called to see 
his Holiness. That same day her majesty condescended to send her grand 
chamberlain, Count Del Valle, to invite me to her table, and the same honor 
was extended to the committee and to his grace's chaplain, so we were all 
Mexicans at her majesty's table. In the morning, just as we were ready to 
start to the Vatican, her majesty saw from the Hotel de Roma, where she was 
stopping, that the cockade of her coachman's hat was not in order, and she 
reprimanded him with much excitement, and delayed us till past the hour fixed 
for our reception. 

This interview was solitary, as your majesty knows is the custom with 
sovereigns, and lasted one hour and eighteen minutes ; then her majesty pre- 
sented her suit to kiss the foot and hand of the holy father, and we retired till 
dinner was served, when her majesty ordered Mr. Castillo to be seated at her 
right, according to the court manual. I told her you said my place was there, 
next to the president of the council, as the oldest minister, though I had no 
portfolio, but I obeyed her orders. 

Her majesty was angry at table, and took neither sherbet nor coffee till we 
had all been helped. She fancied the coffee pot had a hole in it, and had it 
taken away from the table. 

On the 28th there were several incidents that seemed strange to the uninitiated, 
will mention one of them. I was sick in bed that day ; her majesty sent for 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 179 

me three or four times, and finally ordered me to be brought before her in my 
bed. As that could not be done, she sent to see what was the matter with me. 
It seems she thought I had been poisoned the day before at her table. 

After receiving the diplomatic corps and other authorities, her majesty the 
empress went to visit the churches and monuments of Rome, in company with 
Commander Datti, his Holiness's private chamberlain of the sword and cloak, who 
was appointed to wait on her on that occasion. 

At 8 o'clock in the morning, on the 1st instant, her majesty the empress 
went out and I waited for her till 3. At oh I got a note from Cardinal Anto- 
nelli, telling me to come to the Vatican immediately. I was at the hotel with 
Castillo, and having no carriage ready I took the one our consul came in. He 
had been waiting since 1 1 o'clock in the morning to see her majesty. 

I met Cardinal Antonelli much afflicted, because her majesty the empress said 
she would not return to the hotel until the Count Del Valle, her lady of the 
wardrobe, and Dr. Benslaveck, who she said had poisoned her, had left the 
house. 

The cardinal perceiving her excitement without apparent cause, asked per- 
mission to write to me. " Yes," she said, " you may write to Velasquez, but I 
have no confidence in anybody but his Holiness." 

We contrived that those persons should leave the hotel, without scandal, and 
I then went to the Vatican and informed her majesty they had left according to 
her orders. She partook of the Pope's dinner, and wanted to stay in the Vati- 
can all night for fear of the persons mentioned, but I persuaded her to return 
to the hotel by 7 p. m. On entering her room, she perceived the keys were 
not in the door. Infact, the doctor had taken them away secretly, as he afterwards 
acknowledged, to lock her majesty in her chamber, in case of a violent attack. 
Missing the keys, she went straight back to the Vatican, and locked herself and 
Madam Del Barrio in a room under the Pope's, where she passed the night. 
The next day she amused herself in the Vatican gallery till noon, and then 
returned to the hotel and examined to see if the suspected persons were 
there. They had returned and had taken other rooms so as to be near her 
majesty, as they were responsible for her august person, her health, and her 
jewels. 

His Holiness sent his physician and the doctor of the San Giacomo hospital 
to consult her majesty's physician, and they pronounced her disease monomania. 

While her majesty was in the Vatican on the 1st, Aistonelli sent for the 
Count of Flanders and Count Bombelles, at her majesty's instance and with the 
Pope's consent. Luckily they were at Miramar, where they had gone by per- 
mission to visit their Austrian relatives. Castillo and I sent a telegram to our 
minister in Belgium to hurry the Connt of Flanders, in case he was there, and 
we sent your majesty word by the Atlantic cable the same day. 

When she was not on the terrible idea of poison, she conversed rationally, 
and nobody suspected her mental alienation. She never spoke to me of poison, 
for I did not see her in the Vatican, and since then she never mentioned the 
subject, but always received me in a friendly manner. 

The Count of Flanders and Count Bombelles arrived at 8 the next night, and 
resolved to take her majesty to Miramar next day. On the morning of the 
8th she sent for Castillo to sign several documents which she gave him, dis- 
charging all her suit, and even Mr. Castillo himself, but of course he did not 
sign them. The physicians had agreed upon the necessity of her majesty's 
leaving Ptome immediately, on account of the effect of the sirocco on her nerves, 
and to isolate the august invalid. 

On the 7th her mijesty the empress left by a special train for Ancona, with 
the Count of Flanders, all her suit remaining in Home. A steamer was ready 
at Ancona, and on the morning of the 10th she arrived at Miramar. 



180 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

The Count of Flanders, thinking solitude would be best for her majesty the 
empress, did not permit her to take leave of any one. 

In respect to family decisions, and for the good of her majesty, as well as to 
avoid responsibility, I requested Count Bombelles to give me a written state- 
ment of the physician's orders to the Count of Flanders, the relation of our 
sovereign, who had naturally taken charge of her in her present state of health. 
He gave me the document, and by reason of it her majesty's extraordinary 
committee was not present ; but as good Mexicans, Noriega and I went to the 
station to bid adieu to our unfortunate sovereign, who was now suffering for her 
love and devotion to Mexico, to offer her the most important service under the 
trying circumstances. 

She spoke to me with her usual amiability, and asked why my companions 
were not present. They remained away by reason of the doctor's orders, a 
written copy of which I send you. I told her majesty they were indisposed. 
She asked if it was on account of the rain, for it was raining at the time. The 
Count of Flanders then shook my hand, offered his arm to the empress and en- 
tered the cars with the Belgian minister and his lady, the Austrian charge and 
the Austrian and Belgian secretaries. The Belgian minister, Mr. Noriega, the 
secretaries and I followed, according to etiquette, from due respect and consid- 
eration to my sovereigns. 

I have lately heard that the idea of poison originated in Paris. While visit- 
ing the Tuileries, lemonade was given to her majesty and her lady, Madam del 
Barrio, and when she got back to the Grand Hotel she told Kichachirrach that 
they had poisoned her. On the 11th, her majesty's grand chamberlain left for 
Trieste, and Castillo started on the 12th. Before leaving he got a telegram 
from the legation in Paris enclosing your majesty's, giving the good understand- 
ing that reigned everywhere in Mexico, among all classes, the complete organ- 
ization of the ministry, &c. As soon as I received the despatch from Mr. Cas- 
tillo, I sent it to the Osservatore Romano for publication that day ; but as it 
appeared with the date of the 2d of September, instead of the 29th, the true 
date of the telegram, 1 had it republished the next day with the date corrected. 

Senor Barrio and his lady remain here to rest, but expect to start for Trieste 
soon, so as to be near Miramar when your majesty's orders arrive. 

Papers here publish extracts from those of the United States reporting that 
Santa Anna had raised a loan of three millions of dollars, purchased six steam- 
ers, and sent an expedition of two thousand men to the coast of Mexico. 

I received your majesty's communication of the 5th from Cuernavaca, and I 
see in the Diario del Gobierno of the 4th the appointment of Castillo as minis- 
ter to Home. He thinks it a temporary appointment, because, as he is not ac- 
quainted with affairs here, the negotiations of the concordat would be delayed, 
or would fail. 

"VVe have not received the letters recalling the committee, and it is unpleasant 
for me, who have always deserved the confidence of your majesty and the gov- 
ernment, to be brought down to a level with the rest and be compelled to quit 
Kome just at a time I was about asking leave to travel next summer with my 
family for my health, when I could write to your majesty from various places ; 
and at the same time that Ramirez and Degollado were urgent to get back to 
Mexico, we see ourselves in opposite positions ; they are to travel and I am to 
go back to Mexico immediately. I suspect this is a mistake of your majesty's 
secretary, in writing the letters, though I have no idea of disobeying your maj- 
esty's orders. I am sorry to learn at this moment that her majesty the empress 
even suspects the Count of Flanders, and will not see him. - I regret to send 
you such sorrowful news, but it is my determination to let your majesty know 
everything, as that is true frankness and loyalty, and the true way to serve you. 
I hear that the consul in Jerusalem and the Franciscan fathers there are suffer- 
ing for want of means. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 18 L 

Wishing your majesty all consolation, and now more than ever the special 
protection of Providence, I remain your majesty's most obedient servant, 

JOAQUIX VELASQUEZ DE LEON. 
His majesty the Emperor, Mexico. 

"Washington, November 9, 1S66. 
A true copy : 

IGNACIO MARISCAL, Secretary. 



No. 60. 

Mr. Scicard to SeJior Romero. 

Department of State, 

Washington, November 15, 1866. 
Sir : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of 
the 9th instant, containing a copy of a communication addressed to the Prince 
Maximilian by Don Joaquin Velasquez de Leon, with regard to the disease 
affecting the princess Charlotte Leopoldine, for which be pleased to accept my 
thanks. 

I avail myself of this opportunity to renew to you the assurances of my most 
distinguished consideration. 



Senor Don 31. Romero, tyc., fyv., fyc. 



WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 



No. 61. 

SeJior Romero to Mr. F. W. Seicard. 
[Translation. ] 
Unofficial.] Washington, November 16, 1S66. 

My Dear Sir : Fulfilling the offer 1 made you some time since, to obtain 
authentic intelligence from my government about the reported shootiug of a 
son of the Marquis de Montholon, I wrote at once for that purpose to Mr. 
Lerdo de Tejada, who has replied to me, contradicting that rumor, as you will 
see in the letter (of which I send you a copy with this note) which that 
gentleman sent me on the subject under date of 20th of October last. 
I remain your very respectful and obedient servant, 

M. ROMERO. 
Mr. Frederick W. Seward, fyc, fyr.., Sfc. 



[Translation.] 

No. 478.] Dep't of Foreign Relations and of Government, 

Chihuahua, October 20, 1866. 
I have received your notes Nos. 625 and 630, of dates 20th and 21st of Sep- 
tember last, relative to the information which was confidentially asked from you 
by the Hon. Frederick W. Seward, acting Secretary of State, about the news 
published there of the death of a Marquis de Montholon, who was supposed to be 
son of the Marquis de Montholon, minister of France near the government of 
the United States. 



182 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

Such news was published in a newspaper at St. Louis, by inserting a letter 
which was said to have been received from a point on the frontier, in which 
assurance was given that the Marquis de Montholon had been taken in the 
State of Durango and executed by his captors. 

I can assure you that the fact so related is not true. In the State of Durango 
no one has been captured or executed who could be Marquis de Montholon, or 
other person who could bear that name. 

I suppose that the origin of that inaccurate report must have been a rumor 
set afloat in March or April of this year. Then it was said, that in one of the 
many encounters had near Mazatlan, in the State of Sinaloa, a son of the Marquis de 
Montholon died. A little time afterward it was cleared up, that the French 
commander or officer killed was not a son of Monsieur Montholon, nor bore 
that appellative ; and that the mistake originated in his having an appellative 
with some termination similar to it, and that he belonged to some family well 
known and respected. Although I have not now before me the notices relating 
to the person who died at that time, I can assure you that I saw them at the 
time, and in the manner I have related. 

Therefore I believe I can assure you that the notice published in the St. 
Louis newspaper, neither in the mode of publication nor otherwise, is in any 
respect accurate. 

I assure you of ray respectful consideration. 

LERDO DE TEJADA. 

C. Matias Romero, 

Envoy Extraordinary and, Minister Plenipotentiary of the 

Mexican Republic to the United Slates of America, Washington, D. C. 

Washington, November 16, 1866. 



A true copy : 



1GNAOIO MARISCAL, Secretary. 



No. 62. 

Mr. Seward to Senor Romero. 

Department of State, 

Washington, November 20, 1866. 
Sir : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of 
the 16th instant, containing a copy of a note from Mr. Lerdo de Tejada, denying 
the truth of the rumor regarding the shooting of the son of the Marquis de Mon- 
tholon, for which be pleased to accept my thanks. 

I avail myself of this opportunity to renew to you the assurances of my most 
distinguished consideration. 



WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 



Senor Don M. Romero, Sfc, fyc, Sfc. 



No. 63. 



Senor Romero to Mr. Seward. 
[Translation.] 

Washington, November 20, 1866. 
My Dear Sir : I have the honor to send to you for your information copy 
of a letter which I received to-day from Vera Cruz, dated 1st of this month, and 



CONDITION OF AFFAIKS IN MEXICO. 183 

written by a trustworthy person, containing various important notices of the 
causes which have hindered the embarcation of Maximilian at that port. 
I -am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

M. ROMERO. 
Hon. William H. Seward. 



[Translation.] 

Vera Cruz, November 1, 1866. 

Maximilian has not embarked, nor will he probably embark for some days. 
The French hinder his departure until he signs an act of abdication. 

An indiscretion of the commander of the Dandolo frustrated the embarcaLion 
of Maximilian, who was going off; and — you may wonder — without Bazaiue sus- 
pecting it ! This seems extraordinary, but is the case, notwithstanding. 

From his leaving Mexico the rumor ran that the Austrian was going off; but 
this did not go beyond rumor, and as, any way, the ministers were the first in 
giving assurance that the journey to Orizava was like the former one to Cuerna- 
vaca, and nothing on the part of Maximilian indicated the project of flight; thus 
you have the reason why in Mexico they did not give greater credit to the public 
rumor, and Bazaine slept at ease. 

But the Austrian had his plan ready, and would have gone off with his fol- 
lowing, but for the indiscretion of the commander of the Dandolo, as I have 
already said. This captain received a despatch from Maximilian at half past 
twelve at night, before last, warning him to have his frigate ready by five o'clock 
in the afternoon of the following day, at which time he would be here and em- 
bark at once. 

As soon as it dawned the Austrian captain ran to the house of the French 
commander, Monsieur Peyran, and in confidence communicated the message he 
had received, taking leave of him, and asking his orders for Trieste. 

Mr. Peyran hastened to the telegraph and communicated the news to Bazaine, 
who knew nothing of a journey so close at hand ; who immediately cut off all 
telegraphic communication from the public, and began to give orders to the 
French authorities at Orizava, Cordova, and Vera Cruz, and addressed Max- 
imilian himself, informing him that he had knowledge of his projects of flight, 
and making him understand that if he did not abdicate in form he would not let 
him embark. 

All this is true; it has happened, and I know it from a person very closely 
connected and in the confidence of Commander Peyran. Maximilian sought to 
deceive the French, and owing to the indiscretion of the commander of the Dan- 
dolo has been caught in his own net. 

The basis of the French to ground upon and justify his retirement, is abdi- 
cation. Maximilian abdicating, they declare their engagements at an end ; but 
Maximilian going off without abdicating or renouncing the throne, and declar- 
ing, as they say was his intention, all his " griefs against the French," these 
rest in a very bad position ; immense ridicule would have fallen on them, from 
all of which they have escaped. Why should you not be assured that this weak- 
ness of spirit of the Austrian will make him go through everything ; and he will 
sign, not one, but twenty abdications. His voyage has been postponed only a 
few days. In whatever way it may be, this ridiculous imperial farce must end 
ridiculously. 

I have been assured that from this day the French are masters of the reve- 
nues from this custom-house; they using, and none but they, the whole of the 
duties collected. 



184 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

The political prefecture is at an end, and from this day the French superior 
in command is also political prefect ; or, better said, from this day forth there 
is none other than military administration. 

Washington, November 20, 1866. 
A true copy : 

IGNO. MARISCAL, Secretary. 



No. 64. 

Mr. Seward to Senor Romero. 

Department of State, 

Washington, November 29, 1866. 
Sir : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of 
the 20th instant, containing a copy of a letter addressed to you from Vera Cruz, 
with regard to the causes which are said to have prevented the embarcation of 
the Prince Maximilian at that port, for which be pleased to accept my thanks. 

I avail myself of this opportunity to renew to you the assurances of my most 
distinguished consideration. 

WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 
Senor Don M. Romero, fyc, fyc, Sfc. 



No. 65. 

Senor Romero to Mr. Seward. 
[Translation] 

Washington, November 22, 1866. 
My Dear Sir : I enclose you for your information the copy of a communi- 
cation from Don Martin de Castillo, the so-called minister of foreign affairs and 
marine of Maximilian, written to him from Turin, the 6th instant, giving the 
views of public opinion in Europe in regard to his permanency in Mexico, and 
how much this is desired, "as much for the national and commercial interests of 
the moment, as for political equilibrium in the New World, so as to confine a 
certain nation to limits, in order to prevent its gigantic development in future." 
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

M. ROMERO. 
Hon. William H. Seward, fyc., fyc, fyc. 



Letter from Senor Castillo in Turin to Maximilian in Mexico. 

Turin, November 6, 1866. 

Sire : I present your majesty my most respectful thanks for the royal letters 
of the 20th September, with which you have deigned to honor me, and inform you 
that the health of my august sovereign is visibly improving, which is gratifying 
to us, and gives us hopes of her speedy recovery. The information must have 
caused your majesty some anxiety. May the Lord's will be done. 

It gave much pleasure to read your majesty's speech at the anniversary of 
independence, in the paper you deigned to send me, which reached me some 
weeks ago, and renewed my hopes that your majesty would restore the nation- 
ality of the country, now suffering hard trials, in spite of the many obstacles 
in your way. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 185 

I think there is a slight favorahle change in the European press, proceeding 
from the firmness and energy of your majesty in state affairs, and the recent 
reported triumphs of General Mejia. 

Now it is thought the empire has sufficient elements to suppress the revolution, 
and considering the inclination and decided wish of the people around Matamoras 
for peace and order, and the spirit of unity that reigns in different classes of 
society, it is believed the throne can he sustained after the departure of the 
French troops, which is greatly desired in Europe, as much for national and 
commercial interests of the moment as for political equilibrium in the New 
World, so as to confine a certain nation to limits, in order to prevent its gigantic 
development in future. 

Hoping the majority of Mexicans will sustain your majesty's noble efforts, 
and thus show their nation is not dead, and by their patriotism and energy gain 
a sympathy they need so much, we all look forward to a change for the better, 
after the French army leaves, which will give free action to the people, and 
allow them to recover from a crisis that may prove beneficial, instead of pre- 
judicial. 

I will attend faithfully to your orders about Prince Salvador de Iturbide,who, 
I think, had better continue his studies in England. Don Augustin must have 
gone to the United States, and I presume the rest of the family have gone too; 
I will inquire. 

Your majesty will excuse me for being brief in this letter, as it is to be sent 
by unsafe means, and I am afraid it may be intercepted like one of Mr. Eloin's. 

Count Del Valle is still in Miramar. General Uraga left Trieste for Paris 
on the first, and Mr. Barrio and his lady are waiting your instructions in Vienna, 
as lie wrote me on the second. As I cannot return as soon as I expected, I 
write to my brother to deliver to your secretary some documents that were left 
on my desk by Mr. Langlais, one of which is a sealed letter to Mr. Escandon, about 
the sum paid to France by Mexico for the Vera Cruz railway. In my humble 
opinion that affair ought to be thoroughly investigated, so that it be determined 
whether that considerable sum is to revert to the government, and Mr. Escandon 
relieved from its responsibility, or what is to be the result. 

I leave to-morrow for Pisa, the mild climate of which is much recommended 
for the lungs, and it is only a few hours from Rome, via Livorno, where I will 
await your sovereign orders. 

I beg your majesty to permit me to present my most respectful homage and 
gratitude, with which I have the honor to be your majesty's most humble and 
obedient servant, 

M. DE CASTILLO, Minister ad interim. 



Atri 



copy 



Washington, November 22, 1826. 
IGNACIO MARISCAL, Secretary. 



No. G6. 
Mr. Seward to Sefior Romero. 



Department of State, 

Washington, November 29, 1S66. 
Sir : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of 
the 22d instant, containing a copy of a letter of Don Martin de Castillo to the 
Prince Maximilian, with regard to public opinion in Europe as to the permanency 
of his position in Mexico. 



186 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

I avail myself of this opportunity to renew to you the assurances of my most 
distinguished consideration. 

WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 
Senor Don M. Romero, Sfc, fyc, §-c. 



No. 67. 

Senor Romero to Mr. Seward. 

[Translation.] 

Mexican Legation in the United States of America, 

Washington, December 14, 1866. 

Mr. Secretary : I have the honor to remit, for your information and that 
of the government of the United States, a copy of a letter I have received from 
Vera Cruz from a trustworthy person, in which are given some interesting de- 
tails about the arrival of the Susquehanna at that port and the course which the 
so-called imperial prefect Don D. Burean took respecting the aids which said 
steamer needed, and the communication sent to the consul of the United States. 

I send also a copy of the printed • proclamation published on the 1st instant 
by the so-called prefect of Vera Cruz, in which he announces the resolution 
taken by Maximilian not to leave the country, but rather to return from Orizaba 
to the city of Mexico, to assume anew and indefinitely the pretended authority 
he has exercised, which indicates an absolute change of position so far, at least, 
as it had been presented. 

I avail of the occasion to renew to you, Mr. Secretary, the assurances of my 
most distinguished consideration. 

M. ROMERO. 

Hon. William H. Seward, fyc, §c, fyc. 



[Enclosure No. 1. — Translation.] 

Vera Cruz, December 1, 1866. 

* • sfs sjc -if •%. >j< 

The day before yesterday the American steamer Susquehanna anchored in 
this port. It blew from the north, and up till yesterday she communicated 
with the shore. 

The prefecture forbid the captain of the port from sending her pratique ; but as 
the command is with the French military authority, the order of the prefect was 
a nullity, as that authority sent pratique to the Susquehanna to improve her an- 
chorage, which was bad. The pratique brought on return a communication to the 
American consul, which was taken to the prefecture, but they dared not open 
it ; many shifts were resorted to, perhaps for the purpose of finding out what it 
contained ; after keeping it an hour it was sent to the consul, who, I think, will 
not rest quiet after the delay suffered by his communication. 



[Enclosure No. 2. — Translation.] 
Long live the empire ! Long live the emperor ! 

Vera Cruzans : One of the most grateful events for good Mexicans has just 
occurred to the nation. 

His majesty the emperor, who has made so many sacrifices for the welfare 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 187 

and happiness of our dear country, has given the last proof of the interest he 
takes in it. When overwhelmed by the natural feelings which were still con- 
tending, and still are so in his mind, in consequence of the ill health of his 
august and noble spouse, our beloved sovereign, he thought for a moment that 
he ought temporarily to abandon the country to devote himself to fulfilling the 
sacred duty of offering to his worthy consort the cares she so much needs in the 
delicate condition in which she is. The emperor sacrifices himself for us, post- 
pones his duties as a man to those which his honor points out to him to be con- 
trolling, and in these critical moments, that the country may pass safely through, 
he solemnly declares that he will continue at the helm, and will contest without 
remission, until the last drop of his blood be shed in defence of the nation. 

Vera Cruzans, let us rejoice, let us give thanks to Providence for having 
saved the integrity of our territory, and with full outpouring of our hearts, let us 
hail the day of the resurrection of our nationality, on the eve of disappearing. 

Vera Cruz, December 1, 1866. 



No. 68. 

Mr. Seward to Se/tor Romero. 

Department op State, 

Washington, December 17, 1866. 
Sir : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of 
the 14th instant, containing a copy of a letter which you received from Vera 
Cruz relative to the proceedings of Mr. Bureau on the arrival of the Susque- 
hanna at that city ; also a copy of a proclamation he issued on the first of this 
month, to the people of Vera Cruz, for which be pleased to accept my thanks. 

I avail myself of this opportunity to renew the assurances of my most dis- 
tinguished consideration. 

WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 
Seiior Don M. Romero, fyc, fyc, Sfc. 



No. 69. 

Se/wr Romero to Mr. Seward. 

[Translation.] 

Washington, December 21, 1866. 
My Dear Sir : I have the honor to remit to you various articles from the 
principal daily papers of Paris, published during the late days of November 
last, in which there is very ably discussed the important question, who is 
the responsible party, in France, for the ill results which the Mexican adven- 
ture has had. The semi-official press treats of throwing the responsibility on 
the opposition and on public opinion, while the independent journals attribute 
it to the Emperor Napoleon. 

I gladly avail of this opportunity, sir, to repeat that I am, very respectfully 
your most obedient servant, 

M. ROMERO. 
Hon. William H. Seward, fyc., Sfc., fyc. 



188 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

[Enclosure No 1.— From La France, Paris, November 24, 1866. — Translation.] 
THE MEXICAN EMPIRE. 

The expedition to Mexico was inspired by a grand and generous thought, and 
under the circumstances in the midst of which it was carried out, was a political 
conception as ably prepared as energetically conducted. That England and 
Spain should associate themselves, from the outset, with France, must have been 
because they comprehended that the higher interests of civilization and pf justice 
called upon them to go so far to avenge the wrongs done to their subjects. The 
three allied powers well knew that there was something else to be done in Cen- 
tral America besides calling for an ephemeral reparation. They wanted to obtain, 
through the establishment of a strong regular government, essential guarantees 
against the revolutionary powers which, through all time, have been in conflict 
in those countries, and against the cupidity, hidden or avowed, which, by inva- 
sion of South America, might destroy the equilibrium of the whole world. 

France has been left alone in this work worthy the ambition of a great prince 
and a great people. Sagacity counselled perhaps to follow the course of the 
English and Spaniards, and to withdraw upon an appearance of satisfaction, 
without having secured anything in the present or settled anything in the future; 
but honor demanded energy, and, as always, when the flag of France is un- 
furled, honor alone is listened to. At the close of some triumphant military 
movements, the French army entered Mexico a short time afterwards, and were 
received as liberators by a population which had long grieved in disorder and 
anarchy ; and the Mexican nation, restored to freedom of thought, solemnly con- 
sulted, restored again the empire of Mexico amid the plaudits of Europe. The 
work of France then found for its accomplishment a mind bold in initiative, 
strongly imbued with the great ideas of our times, a strong mind, a brave heart, 
a choice intellect in the Archduke Maximilian of Austria. Impartial posterity 
will justly appreciate the self-devotion of this prince, who, braving difficulties 
and dangers, accepted the crown of Mexico and undertook to found, in a policy 
of order, of peace, and of progress, the future of a country whose past history 
had been so brilliant. If he has not been able to accomplish the noble self- 
imposed task, he will at least enjoy the ineffaceable honor of having generously 
undertaken it. He was, in fact, permitted to believe in his success. The French 
army protected the Mexican throne, restored by the national vote, and all respect- 
able men, all conservative interests, grouped themselves around Maximilian to 
aid and sustain him in his task. But at this moment, it must be admitted, an 
unlooked for movement of opinion showed itself in France. The public mind 
grew restless under the possible consequences of our intervention in Mexico. 
The feeling of the country, of which the opposition took hold with much skill, 
pronounced itself markedly each day more and more for the recall of our troops and 
the prompt closing up of this distant expedition. It was a regretable error. No 
serious danger then menaced the expeditionary army, nor the empire of Maxi- 
milian. No one would have dared to address to our country a humiliating 
injunction; and, as long as our flag sheltered the Mexican territory, no foreign 
power would have dared to intervene. But the public sentiment which arose 
among us had, beyond the ocean, an influence easily to be foreseen. It encouraged 
the hopes of all enemies of the Mexican empire, and discouraged the confidence 
of all its friends. The discontended found, within and without, gatherings on 
which they had not reckoned ; conservatives, disquieted about the future, ceased 
to act in favor of the imperial government, fearing to commit themselves further, 
and all the force that sustained the Mexican throne vanished at once. We 
avow, with a feeling of sadness which we do not seek to dissemble, that this was 
a fatal solution of this grand experiment ; but, at any rate, let us not aggravate 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 189 

it by regrets or by unjust appreciations. The responsibility for the actual con- 
dition must not be placed in the wrong quarter. 

The Emperor's government had conceived a grand affair ; had pursued its 
realization with a perseverance worthy of the grandeur of the purpose and an 
elevation of views worthy of the policy of France. 

The array, on its part, had accomplished its mission with its traditional bravery. 
In Mexico it added new laurels to its crowning glory. It retires not before any 
conquering enemy, nor any menace. It leaves Mexico because a controlling 
will prevents it from finishing its work. This will is that of the country, which 
on all occasions has expressed a Avish to put an end to the Mexican expedition. 
It is that opinion which governs public authorities and the sovereign, and which, 
according to an august expression, " must always carry the final victory." Such 
is the truth ; and if it be possible to look at it without sadness, it should at least 
be looked upon without passion. But whatever be the issue of this glorious 
enterprise of civilization and of national regenerition, we cannot too much honor 
the generous prince who consecrated his most devoted efforts, and that noble 
woman — that touching empress Charlotte — whose grief and sorrows have shaken 
her fine intelligence. These vast misfortunes cast a funeral veil over the close 
of the Mexican empire, but leave no place for anything bat respect and sym- 
pathy in all quarters. 

J. COHEN. 



[Enclosure No. 2. — La Liberie, Paris, November 25, 1866. — Translation.] 
THE RESPONSIBILITY. 

The art of mixing up questions, and of casting upon others the responsibility 
for one's own acts, truly, at this time, makes astonishing progress. The journal 
of France which understands how to bedeck the reader with garlands, and bind 
with flowers the temples of the victims he is going to sacrifice, attempts to-day 
to play a scurvy trick on public opinion. He seeks to make it responsible for 
the ill success of our intervention in Mexico. 

Tolisten to "La France," the government happily conceived and admirably con- 
ducted this adventurous enterprise, which would have succeeded if public opinion , 
interpreted by the journal and deputies of the opposition, had not encouraged the 
hopes of the enemies of the Mexican empire, and discouraged its friends. 

Even to-day public opinion alone must be responsible for the evacuation of 
Mexico ; the opposition must bear the burden of the evils which fall on Maxi- 
milian. Was this not public opinion ? The government always, to believe " La 
France" in the matter, would have persevered and carried out the task under- 
taken. 

Here we perceive the tactics, and " La France" scarcely takes the trouble to 
conceal it. "History," says it, "disengaged from the prejudices and passions of 
contemporary time, will certainly dojustice intheendto the great purpose of which 
this great enterprise was the medium." Therefore, when history shall be written 
the check of Maximilian, the ruin of Mexican bondholders, the cordial under- 
standing between the United States and France compromised, so many millions 
spent, and so many lives sacrificed for the regeneration of Mexico, so many errors 
committed — all these will revert to those who from the first cried out, with as 
little success as Cassandra of old : " No interventions, no distant expeditions." 

In the name of history, which is invoked, we cannot allow such allegations to 
pass without protesting against similar allegations. " La France" speaks of 
public opinion absolutely as does " L'Etendard," and quite as justly. If public 
opinion is the cause of the present evacuation of Mexico ; if the votes of the citi- 



190 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

zens are sufficiently listened to now, so that after four years of heroic, yet power" 
less efforts, the field is left open to Juarez, why has this public opinion, so weV- 
heard when the heavens were overcast, been so little attended to by the journal 
"La France," when at the commencement of the embarcation it foresaw the storm 
and predicted the tempest ? 

Has the journal " La France," yes or no, approved the expedition 1 Yes or no 
has it boasted of the infraction of the convention of " La Soledad ? " Has it or 
not attacked with vigor the journalists and the deputies, who, through forecast- 
ing patriotism, maintained that the result of the enterprise would not compensate 
the risks 1 Is it not still " La France" which, notwithstanding the affirmations 
of Mr. Rouher, has done everything to convince the holders of Mexican bonds that 
they had made a good investment ; that the sad recitals of the situation of Mexico 
were false, and that at all events the government had, in respect of them, come 
under moral obligations 1 

And after holding this language for years, " La France" attempts to decline 
responsibility for events, and throws it altogether on other shoulders. No, a hun- 
dred times, no. At the outset we invoked the principle of non-intervention, and 
we placed our finger on the perils of the enterprise. The campaign commenced ; 
we, accepting the situation made for us, indicated the best measures for consoli- 
dating, if the thing were possible, the throne of Maximilian. When this thrcne 
Avas cracked throughout, we asked that the country should not suffer too much 
from this catastrophe, and in recommending to treat with Juarez we have in all 
conscience shown the best way to pursue to secure the safety of French interests 
still connected with Mexico. 

During this time what has this journal " La France" done ? Exactly the con- 
trary to what we were doing ; praising what we blamed, blaming what we praised ; 
putting aside our propositions as Utopian, and doing the indignant when in our 
devotion to the country we spoke of treating with Juarez. 

" The responsibility for the present situation," said ' La France' " must not be 
placed in the wrong quarter." 

That is our opinion ; let " La France" therefore take it on herself, and not en- 
deavor to make it fall upon public opinion, assuredly very innocent of the mis- 
haps of the emperor Maximilian. 

H. PESSARD. 



[Enclosure No. 3. — From L'Avenier Nationals, Paris, November 30, 1866. — Translation.] 

The Mexican expedition has twice failed of its purpose ; it failed at first with 
the three powers which undertook it in common ; then when the French govern- 
ment, refusing to ratify the convention of La Soledad, alone continued the war 
begun by three, and took under her protection the empire raised on the ruins of 
the republic. This double check the opposition had not only foreseen, but had 
announced; however, it maintained reserve, abstaining from reprisals too easy to 
be made, when it was unexpectedly called forth by the inconceivable accusations 
of La France. It was not possible to suffer the parts to be thus changed, and 
we were obliged, in recalling the facts, to cast back the responsibility for this 
expedition on those on whom it rests entirely. La France calls that denigra- 
tion, and adds : " Nothing is more sad than this system of denigration in view 
of the checks on our policy." 

What is sad is to see writers Avho, by their imperturbable approbation of an 
undertaking which miscarried and brought about such disastrous checks, descend 
to such controversial expedients, and seek to turn the bearing of opinion. If 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 191 

they think to embarrass us they are mistaken, and so long as they do not get 
tired of misstating facts, we shall not weary of reasserting them. 

The provocations of La France place us between two difficulties ; to stir 
up, or to smother the discussion ; we would avoid the one and the other, but we 
would, in recalling facts, prevent a deceit upon public opinion, and a change of 
parts. 

At the outset the expedition was concerted between France, England, and 
Spain. What did those three powers want ? To appearance they had one com- 
mon and avowed object ; in reality each a purpose privily entertained, and in- 
determinate at least as to the means of attaining it. 

The common and avowed object was indicated by the very terms of the con- 
vention. The three powers had to claim from the Mexican government repara- 
tion for numerous and divers wrongs, and observance of engagements contracted 
and guarantees for the future. They did not bind themselves to acquire any 
portion of territory, or to seek any special advantage, nor to exercise any pecu- 
liar control over the domestic affairs of the republic, nor to make any attempt 
against the right of the Mexicans to choose the form of their government, and to 
administer it as they understood it. 

On the first arrangement the agreement was easy and might last ; vagueness 
and doubt begun with the second understanding. In fact, to declare that to the 
Mexicans should be left to make choice of their form of government, was to say 
that they regarded the government of Juarez as less regular than the future 
government, such as might be, that which afforded the surest guarantee. 

In this second arrangement lay the germ of difficulty of disagreement, each 
of the three powers being entitled to interpret it differently, according to its 
opinions or private wishes. Two things are equally incontestable : First, the three 
powers thought the presence of the. allied troops would lead on to a rising of the 
people, and the subversion of the government; next, it was evidently privately 
understood that the civil Avar in the United States should be taken advantage 
of to found in Mexico a government able to check the expansion of the great 
republic, suspected of wishing to absorb Mexico and Central America, at least 
as far the Isthmus of Panama. 

England, who only thought^of the preponderance of her commercial interests, 
left to the others, according to her wont, the greater part of the expense and 
responsibility. Spain, who made pretension to play the leading part, dreamed 
of making Mexico one of her dependencies, and if the throne should be restored 
in Mexico, of placing a Bourbon thereon. The French government, if it wished 
a monarchy, certainly did not want it for a Bourbon, which soon dissipated the 
views of Spain, and explained the strange part which General Prim made his 
troops play. 

The three governments were alike deceived in their expectations. The in- 
ventors of the candidature of the Archduke Maximilian had announced as cer- 
tain a general ■pronunciamienlo ; but the country did not stir, and, as General 
Lorencz acknowledged in his order of the day at Pueblo, the resistance sur- 
passed all anticipations; consequently, the calculations settled upon being found 
mistaken, it was necessary to think of new combinations, and to change the 
natural current of the expedition. 

Then it was that the opposition accentuated its protests, its notices, and called 
the government only to follow up "reparation of its wrongs." All was useless. 
The counsels of wisdom and sound policy were considered as acts of systematic 
hostility, as a want of patriotism. The majority of the legislative body, by votes, 
the official journals, royalist and clerical, by their approbation encouraged the 
government to follow up the expedition alone. Thus encouraged the govern- 
ment went to extremes; our army entered Mexico, the monarchy was re-estab- 
lished, and the Archduke Maximilian mounted the throne of Montezuma. To-day 
he is on the way to Miramar. 



192 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

La France pretends that the opposition should glory in re-vindicating a share 
of responsibility in this great check. Why ! a part in the responsibility for an 
enterprise which it blamed in its first days, of which it pointed out the dangers, 
announced the result, and against which it has never ceased to protest? You 
don't speak seriously. If the expedition had succeeded you would have re- 
proached the opposition for its false calculations, its predictions confuted by 
events; you would have claimed all the glory for yourself. Well, then, keep all 
the responsibility for the check, for it is not you that it weighs upon exclu- 
sively. 

A. PEYRAT. 



[Enclosure No. 4. — From Le Temps, Paris, November 30, 1866. — Translation.] 

La France persists in charging upon our check in Mexico the shortcomings 
of the country. The enterprise was "grand," and the government had the 
honor of it ; the winding up was " sad," and the fault of this lies on the French 
people. Power " nobly sacrifices its wishes to the nation from which it ema- 
nates; " but those projects were unimpeachable; nothing was wanting to their 
success but agreement of opinion. " Even now, should our soldiers return from 
their glorious expedition before the purpose is gained for which the enterprise 
was planned, it is because public sentiment has spoken out in the chambers and 
elsewhere in a sense contrary to keeping up our intervention." 

Here you have what is well understood. All the annoying anticipations of 
public opinion have been realized; nevertheless, it is that which is wrong; it is 
that public opinion which has done all the mischief. The responsibility for the 
present state of things must not be misplaced. The government of the Emperor 
had conceived a great thing ; it pursued its realization with perseverance wor- 
thy of the grandeur of the purpose, and with a loftiness of views -worthy of the 
policy of France. 

The army, on its part, had accomplished its, mission with its traditional 
bravery. In Mexico it gathered fresh laurels around the crown of its glory. 
It has not fallen back before any conquering enemy, nor in presence of any 
menace ; it leaves Mexico because a higher will has uttered the wish that a 
term should be put to the Mexican expedition. 

So the matter admits no doubt ; not only is it public sentiment, perceived by 
the opposition, which, expressed out here for the recall of our troops, has caused 
"the vanishing at once of all the forces that sustained Maximilian; " but it is 
opinion, even opinion alone, that invited the withdrawal of our soldiers. This 
withdrawal is not brought on by the recognition of our powerlessness to found 
anything in Mexico ; even at this hour, by maintaining our intervention, we 
might achieve a glorious end for the expedition, and would incur no danger. 
But public opinion has pronounced for the recall of our intervention, and the 
authority inclines to it ; only as opinion has not had in this sense any legiti- 
mate reason which draws it out, either from the interior of Mexico, or from the 
possibility of foreign complications, or any other considerations, it follows that 
the wish of the country is purely a caprice, and an inexplicable caprice. The 
French people has shown itself unworthy of understanding and carrying 
through this great enterprise of civilization. Honor to every one, even Maxi- 
milian who flies ; but it must be imputed as a regrettable error to the nation 
this want of courage, this fatal winding up ! 

Such is the way they reason in a country of universal suffrage, and are aston 
ished to hear us say that such language is an injury to the country. " History 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 193 

freed from contemporaneous prejudices and passions, will certainly do justice," 
France says, " to the great aim of which this glorious enterprise was the means." 
What, then, will history say of the people which refused association with this 
"grandiose attempt," except that it was a nation cowardly and degenerate? 
We supplicate La France to advance for us a little the hour of history, and not 
deprive us any longer of our appreciation of the voluptuous pleasure of admira- 
tion, so rare in these days. Let her show us the great aim, admirable yet con- 
cealed, for which the expedition to Mexico was to be the means ; let us know 
this unknown plan ; let her show it written out in authentic documents ; let 
her produce these official papers, of which history will have need to judge 
of this mysterious conception ; let her, in fine, tell us under what solemn cir- 
cumstance, through what authorized organ, the government invited the nation 
to concur in its vast projects by making them known to it ; for, if the nation 
was ignorant of them, how can you reproach it for not having adopted them 
with enthusiasm ? If the recovery of some debts and reparation for some inju- 
ries have been the sole causes assigned by our authority for the expedition, is 
that the reason why public opinion could divine the hidden causes 1 She has 
predicted what has happened. In return for all your splendid prophecies, 
" which," do you say to us, " has been realized 1 " 

There is a dictum to express that which opinion has always felt and always 
said since the outset of the Mexican affair : " The game is not worth the candle." 
The expression is vulgar ; but who can now say that the expression was not 
apt and just % The " last victory," you say, must always be carried by opinion. 
Is that enough % And who does not see that his triumph comes too late when 
produced, after a manner, at the last moment ? Who does not see that it is 
opinion that should carry things before it at once, and that it is necessary, in 
order that it be manifest in season, to count upon checks and mistakes, and to 
meet them all, those popular freedoms, without which it rests unknown and 
p >werless ? 

But no ! rather than draw conclusions from the event, you prefer to say that 
opinion went astray ; the error belongs to it and not to you. Ah ! you know 
well the fortune of Cassandra ; but the fable itself has not told us that after the 
fall of Troy there were still Trojans weak enough to wonder at the wooden 
horse, and to jeer at the daughter of Priam. 



[Enclosure No. 5. — From the Journal des Debats, November 28.] 

It would be high time to write dispassionately about the Mexican question 
now that fate has pronounced, and that it might be considered as almost within 
the domain of history. But really it is putting the patience of the enlightened 
portion of the community to a test far above its powers to frame, as has just 
been done, a regular indictment against the French people, whose faltering, we 
are told, has upset and disconcerted the grand designs of its government. A 
little memory is sufficient to enable the public to ascertain that popular opinion 
is no more answerable for the issue than for the outset of that undertaking, and 
that, on that question, as on all others, the government was left wholly unfet- 
tered. The votes of the chamber are there to prove it. The truth is, that pub- 
lic opinion, warned by that marvellous instinct of self-preservation which com- 
munities possess in the same degree as organized beings, felt alarmed at the con- 
sequences of the Mexican expedition, at the very time that that expedition was 
exposing us to a serious risk, which no serious interest justified the country iu 

13 Mex. 



194 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

incurring. The French public watched at first with more curiosity than appre- 
hension the attempt that was being made to found an empire in Mexico, and to 
establish an Austrian archduke on the Mexican throne. Without feeling any 
degree of interest in the regeneration of the Latin, or rather the IndoLatin, 
races in that distant region, without feeling the slightest desire to reduce to sub- 
jection a new Algeria, at such a distance from our coasts, the French public at first 
viewed with patience the Mexican expedition, regarding it as a kind of costly and 
risky experiment, which might possibly turn out well. That which changed the 
public feeling, which abruptly ended that relative indifference, was the aspect of 
the United States, relieved of the cares of their civil war, their open hostility 
toward the Mexican expedition, and their determination to oppose it. There can 
be no doubt that the sudden apparition of such an adversary would only have 
acted as a stimulant on public opinion, and roused the national spirit among us, 
if the French people had really thought that their interests or their honor were 
involved in the success of the Mexican venture. But the idea of going to war 
with the United States to solve in our own way the philosophical question of the 
regeneration of the Latin races, or the equally idle question of the relative advan- 
tages of a monarchy over a republic, was not calculated to become popular, and 
induce France to submit to such a heavy sacrifice of blood. It is from that day 
that popular opinion, deeply roused, was able to exercise indirectly some influ- 
ence on the decisions of the government. But let us be just. Even if that in- 
fluence had not existed, the final resolve of the French government would have 
been the same, for the simple reason that it never contemplated founding Max- 
i?nilian's throne at the cost of a icar with the United States. It is, therefore, in- 
sincere to say that it is the nation which restrained the government, which was cer- 
tainly wise enough to restrain itself. Instead of charging the nation with faltering, 
when, after all, it has done nothing to recommend and approve a retreat so neces- 
sary that it would be carried out even if public opinion were so ill-advised as to 
disapprove it, why not acknowledge that the Mexican undertaking was founded 
on two opinions, both of which events have shown to be wrong ] The first was 
that the great majority of the Mexican population would be favorable to the new 
empire, and that the dissidents could be reduced without any great difficulty ; 
the second — which was far more important as to the future prospects of the un- 
dertaking — was that the American Union was hopelessly destroyed, that the 
South would beat the North, and would form a bulwark for the new empire. 
These were the conditions on which the success of the empire depended. But, 
while the first was secondary — as with time, blood, and money, the Mexican dis- 
sidents must have been reduced to submission — the second was vital, as the idea 
of founding an empire at the gates of the resuscitated United States, and at the cost 
of a war with them, could never have entered any mortal head. In fact, fate has 
now pronounced, and it may be stated that if Maximilian's abdication be only 
dated yesterday, the real date of his fall goes back to the capture of Atlanta, 
and Charleston, and to the surrender of Richmond. His fall was even fore- 
shadowed by the two despatches by which England and Russia refused to join 
the French government to propose a mediation and an armistice between the fed- 
erals and the confederates. The failure of the Mexican expedition rests, therefore, 
on two errors of judgment, from which the expedition originated. Illusions were 
entertained as to the internal state of Mexico, and as to the probable issue of 
the war in the United States. That it would have been better not to have made 
these two mistakes all the world agrees ; but there is a newspaper which allows 
itself to be mastered by its zeal to such a degree as to pretend that if the expe- 
dition failed it is the country that is responsible for the blunder. It is enough 
to reply to that paper that it is mistake?, and that no one labors under that mis- 
take but itself. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 19i 



^Enclosure No. 6, — From La Liberte, November 28, 1866. — Translation.] 

A LESSON, 

About ten months since La Presse, discussing the Mexican question with La 
France, the latter journal maintained that the expedition had fully completed its 
purpose, that purpose never having been to found a monarchy in Mexico, but 
only to obtain reparation from that government without scruple. La Presse in 
vain protested. On the approach of the debates in the legislative body, La France 
thought necessary to give the Mexican enterprise these moderate proportions. 
At this day, on the contrary, it is La France, taking the opinion sustained by 
La Presse ten months earlier, declares that the expedition to Mexico was a means, 
and that the end was very different. 

In truth, this controversy, which might have had an interest in the month of 
February, 1866, has only a historic interest in the month of November, for 
whatever the purpose it matters little to know, because the purpose failed. 

Was it purposed only to protect our countrymen, and to realize the pitiful 
sums due to us from Mexico? The object has certainly failed, for Mexico, in 
this month of November, 1866, owes more than she owed us. in the month of 
November, 1861 ; aud as for our countrymen, exclusive of there having died in 
five years a much greater number by war, connected with yellow fever, than 
would have died in twenty years of civil discord in Mexico, it is difficult to be- 
lieve that in the future they will be better protected, more liked, more respected 
than they were before. 

If it were purposed to re-establish in Mexico that clerical party, which, after 
having disturbed it for more than forty years, went out of power in 1857, and 
was definitively stricken down in the last months of I860, the object again 
failed, for hardly had we reached Mexico, accompanied by the principal leaders 
of that party, than we were obliged to turn it out rudely from the control of 
affairs. 

Was it intended to found a monarchy in the midst of republican America ? 
The return of Maximilian shows plainly enough how that succeeded. Was it 
purposed, in fine, to oppose a barrier to the ambition of the United States, and 
to the expansion of the Anglo-Saxon race in the New World ? Was it, in a 
word, the application, by means which are not our own, of the intercontinental 
policy, which we object to ? The precipitate departure of Mr. Campbell and 
General Sherman, the alliance more intimate than heretofore between the Mex- 
ican United States and the United States, show sufficiently that we have not 
succeeded. 

What, then, remains to us for these five years of efforts and sacrifices ? There 
remains one precious thing — a lesson. 

To France the Mexican affair teaches that the policy of intervention is pow- 
erless, and the system of permanent armies full of peril. To the government it 
teaches the sterility of the juste milieu system. 

The policy of intervention has not anywhere been exercised so actively as 
in the Hispano-American republics. The minister of European powers accred- 
ited to those republics had no other occupation than to plead the wrongs of their 
countrymen. Often government yields to avoid a conflict. Sometimes it resists, 
and ends in those military demonstrations which so often occur. But those 
demonstrations are powerless. This is demonstrated in the history of Mexico 
for twenty years, and if it be decided to act more energetically, you come to 
those blind alleys with no outlets which are called the conquest of Algeria and 
the expedition to Mexico. 

The only reasonable thing to do is, therefore, once for all, that our country- 
men, in expatriating themselves, act at their own risk aud perils ,- that they accept 



196 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

in advance the chances, good or had, of expatriation; that they have, in conse- 
quence, no aid to expect from citizens who, not running the chances of the 
happy accidents of such enterprises, don't expect to suffer the ill consequences ; 
and this declaration should be absolute in the interest of all ; in the interest of 
those who, in self-expatriation, will make for themselves no dangerous illusions ; 
in the interest, above all, of France, who will not risk being drawn by her 
generosity into enterprises of no result. But that this policy should in earnest 
be adopted, a declaration is not sufficient; there must be a sanction; there must 
be disarmament. 

To desite that a government should maintain a large army, and to require 
that it should remaia inactive, is to require what is absurd and impracticable. It 
is to require what is absurd, because if you want a good army, it must be inured 
to war, and that it may be inured to war it must be that with intervals of five, 
ten, or fifteen years, which pass between two great European wars, there are 
lesser wars which keep the army in breath. It is to require what is impracti- 
cable, for a government with an army cannot leave it inactive for a thousand 
reasons which all the world understand very well. There must, therefore, be 
room for the manoeuvring of this military force and an off-drain for its need for 
action. Under the government of July, there was Algeria and Abd-el-Kader ; 
under the second empire, there is Mexico and Juarez. Frankly, where is the 
difference ? Has Mexico cost more men and more money than Algeria? No, 
only Mexico borders on the United States, while Algeria borders on Morocco ; 
that is all the difference. Suppose that Algeria bordered on a state as powerful 
as North America, it would have been abandoned long ago. Suppose Mexico 
had for neighbor only a state powerless as is Morocco, how many good reasons 
there would have been for remaining there. 

Those journals which wish the maintenance, the extension of armaments — 
armed peace, in a word — and which cry out bitterly against the expedition to 
Mexico, the Siecle, the Opinion Nationale, the Temps, who declare themselves 
partisans of the policy of intervention, and yet blame intervention in Mexico, 
are simply inconsistent. If the government had not its hands full with Mexico, 
they would probably have dragged it into Poland. Frankly, what would France 
have gained thereby, and in what respect is it less glorious to go and protect 
our countrymen in Mexico, than to go and protect the Poles in Poland. It is 
less dangerous, that is all. In what regards the policy of intervention, the lesson 
is therefore complete. It is not the less severe on the juste milieu. What were 
the two radical policies to be adopted toward America 1 On one side was our 
policy, that of non intervention ; on the other side, the policy set forth in tha 
letter of 3d July, a policy having for object to found in the Gulf of Mexico a 
powerful state, becoming the centre of the Spanish republics, and opposing a 
barrier to the expansion of the Anglo-Saxon race in the New World. Good or 
bad, our policy was precise ; good or bad, the policy of the 3d July had the 
merit of being a policy, and we do not even say that it would not have been grand, 
imposing. 

One policy having been put aside, what did sound logic counsel ? It counselled 
to follow up with resolution the policy of the 3d July. 

From the moment of action in an interest opposed to that of the American 
Union, the day should not have been waited for when peace, re-established by 
the capture of Richmond, would permit the cabinet at Washington to call upon 
us for the evacuation of Mexico. It was logic to recognize the southern con- 
federacy ; it was not logical to place the new government we were founding in 
Mexico in an impossible financial condition, and, in place of authorizing loans 
which would not have given her more than thirty millions disposables, it was 
necessary to guarantee a suitable loan. It was sound sense to say resolutely 
to the country : This is what you have to do; the indefinite aggrandizement of 
the North American republic appears to be to us a danger as great as the ambi- 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 197 

tion of Russia. We went to stop Russia at Sebastopol ; we go to Mexico to 
interpose a dike to the American fleet. For this we need many men and much 
money, for if France is not bound to undertake everything, she is bound to 
succeed in what she does undertake. The moment is opportune, for the dissen- 
sions in America furnish us an excellent opportunity ; the object is grand, it 
only needs the means to be in proportion to the object. The government we 
may found there must not be in dependence on a French general. We must 
give it the resources necessary for the organization of an immense country, 
whose natural resources are considerable, but whose disposable resources are 
nothing. In this way, would the undertaking have succeeded ? It is difficult 
to say after the affair is over, but we sincerely think it. We believe that if, in 
1S64, at the moment when Doblado and a great many of the liberal leaders 
offered to rally round the empire, there had been in Mexico a government inde- 
pendent and furnished with sufficient resources, it could have been sustained 
How many years it would have lasted we do not know. 

What changes it might have undergone, we know not, but in any event 
it would have been founded, and the object of the expedition would have been 
achieved. In place of that, we adopted half-way measures. It has been said 
in the newspapers that Mexico had an organized army, and a well balanced 
budget. Twenty-five thousand men were sent to Mexico, when fifty thousand 
were needed to pacify that country ; two insufficient loans were allowed to be 
made, in place of guaranteeing at once in good faith a loan which would have, 
yielded abundantly at low interest the indispensable amounts. There is what 
La France has never ceased to praise, for it is the triumph of the policy of 
between two. When Mr. Jules Favre advised to make a finish of Mexico 
by giving it up to itself, and when Marshal Forey advised making an end of 
it by sending out a sufficient army, La France found fault with these two 
extreme opinions. " Neither re-enforcen or abandon," said that paper ; " a little 
action, and abandon at the end, that is policy." When we said don't lend money 
to Mexico, and when we said : " Don't authorize indirect loans and inadequate 
to usurious charges, but lend all that is wanted or don't lend at all ; guarantee 
the loan or don't guarantee it." La France cried out : " Wilful men, be si- 
lent, the truth is in the between two conditions. You are wrong to be willing 
not to lend to Mexico anything, and you are wrong to be willing to lend 
her too much. You know you are wrong not to authorize a loan ; you 
know you are wrong to guarantee one. It should be a small loan and a half- 
way guarantee." And yet at this day it is La France that boldly puts forward 
this question : On whom rests the responsibility for the check ? The check ! 
It is on you, only on you. It lies not on the army, always victorious in Mexico ; 
it is not on Maximilian, wanting in adequate financial resources ; it is not on 
us, who have never ceased to protest ; nor even on the primitive idea of the 
expedition ; it rests on the between two policy, which enervated the action of 
government without stopping it, and which, in place of having an understand- 
ing with the opposition to blame the undertaking, only allied itself with the 
idea of the government to render it powerless, by counselling half-way mea- 
sures in a business where the choice lay between inaction and action the most 
resolute. That won't hinder the juste milieu from declaring themselves the 
only political spirits of the age, but will the lesson profit the government or 
the country. In such case, costly as it may be, we shall not count it too 
dear. 

CLEMENT DUVERNOIS. 



198 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 



[Enclosure No. 7. — From La Liberty, Paris, December 1, I960. — Translation.] 
PUBLIC OPINION. 

The journals which counselled the Mexican expedition, and afterwards wished 
it should continue in place of adhering to the convention of La Soledad, are na- 
turally much embarrassed in view of the results obtained. That which might 
best happen to us after five years of efforts and sacrifices is to obtain to-day the 
same benefits, the same guarantees, which were effected for us in 1561, and 
which then were repelled with disdain. There would still be a difference in 
favor of the convention of Soledad, because in 1861 we treated directly with 
the Mexicans, while at this day the United States will mix up in the contract 
in a manner to establish indisputably their controlling- influence over Mexico. 

A war undertaken for the purpose of placing a barrier against an invasion of 
the New World by the republicans of the North will then have had for result 
definitively the hastening of such invasion. 

This is sad beyond doubt, and we understand the journals which counselled the- 
expedition must be annoyed at the responsibility they have incurred; but what 
is almost laughable is the effort they are making to throw this responsibility 
on public opinion, which at first favoring the enterprise, afterwards manifested 
fears which did not permit the government to finish a work the success of which 
was assured. 

La France, who sustained the argument against Le Temps, would be obliging 
if she would let us know by what signs she recognizes the satisfaction or dis- 
content of public opinion. 

If we adhere to the letter of the constitution, public opinion has no lawful 
interpreter other than the legislative body ; but we would like to know what dif- 
ference there was between the approving votes of 1862, of 1863 and of 1864, 
and the approving votes of 1866 and 1866. Is it that the white ballots casts 
into the urns by honorable members should change their significance from one 
year to another 1 

Is it that wishing to say in 1862 "We approve your policy," the same ballot 
would say in 1S65 and 1866, "Your policy frightens us ?" Upon what might 
one judge that the ballots had so changed their signification, and that " yes" no 
longer means "yes ]" La Prance would be still more embarrassed to explain 
that she is not embarrassed in justifying the advice she has been giving for five 
years. 

The truth is, the lawful expression of opinion is constantly brought out in 
the same way ; there is not a day when an attempt is not made to oppose the 
continuation of the Mexican expedition. The majority approved in 1862, when 
Mr. Billault, answering to Jules Favre, declared they could not be content with 
the treaty of Soledad, but had no thought of establishing an empire in Mexico ; 
the majority has remained unshaken ; since our troops have gone through a 
thousand perils, Mr. Thiers said, with reason, that the only wise thing to do was 
to treat with Mr. Juarez. 

The majority could not longer hesitate when they saw the establishment of 
the empire of Mexico give contradiction to the assertions of Mr. Billault. The 
majority has remained compact when a clear-sighted opposition anticipated 
difficulties between France and the United States. The majority, the lawful 
organ of opinions, has then fully, confidently, incessantly shared in the responsi- 
bility of the enterprise, not merely in its primitive conception and in its general 
bearings, but also in its various phases. 

Thus of these two which compose the chambers, one has been clear-sighted, the 
other has deceived itself. The constitutional opposition was not blinded for a 
single day ; from the beginning it foresaw the issue, and has every year given 1 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO 199 

counsels that might soon close the enterprise. In 1S62 it voted for the treaty 
of Soledad. In 1864 it proposed to treat with the Mexican government ; it has 
always combatted the idea of the establishment of a monarchy in Mexico. 
While it was counted in favor of this establishment on the triumph of the con- 
federates over the federal cause, the left side never ceased to foresee the triumph 
of the Union ; and while illusions were entertained on the sentiments of Mexico 
and its immediate resources, the left never ceased to dissipate those illusions 
by stating the facts precisely, and producing the figures. Which of the two 
constitutional fractions of the chambers has given proof on this occasion of the 
greatest discernment and of true political skill. Has it been the fraction which 
voted with Mr. Jules Pavre and Mr. Thiers, or the fraction which voted afterwards 
on the counsels of Mr. Billault and Mr. Rouher ? Such is the question as it 
stands, and such it is well to place it before electoral France. As for rne, if entry 
to the chamber through the gate of official candidature, to go and take my seat 
on the benches with the majority, I had for five years approved the divers phases 
of the expedition, I should reason thus : 

I thought I did well. I would say I have no reproach of conscience in 
voting with Mr. Billault and Mr. Rouher. I thought I voted in the interest of 
the country ; but I see well I was mistaken, for T voted in 1862 with Mr. Jules 
Favre,and in 1865 with Mr. Thiers ; I would have spared my constituents many 
useless sacrifices and the government many a mortification. The conservative 
interest is therefore not that I always vote according to ministerial speeches; it 
means that I sometimes vote in accordance with the opposition. Perhaps po- 
liticians, who are themselves perfectly at home in Mexican affairs, sometimes 
give some foresight to the examination of questions of finance and the discussion 
of domestic questions. I shall this year listen to them with more attention, give 
them more confidence, and in some cases vote with them. 

That is what I would say if I was a member of the majority, and if I was 
an elector voting for the official candidate I should reason in an analogous manner. 
I have voted for the candidate my prefect recommended ; being conservative, 
I thought I acted judiciously. I have been told a liberal chamber will prevent 
the government from doing great things, and I have been willing to give to the 
government all its initiative privilege for whatever great things have been done 
since 1863, and which would have been hindered by the opposition of the 
chamber. I have sought a good deal in vain ; I don't see; I see no great vic- 
tories, nor in fine does the aggrandizement of Prussia pass for a victory of 
France, nor great public works, nor exceptional prosperity. On the other hand, 
there is the expedition to Mexico which has cost the life of many young 
conscripts, which has cost myself the value of more than two Mexican bonds, 
to say nothing of public outlays in which I have taken part, and for consola- 
tion I see myself on the eve of being called out to drill in the landwehr. If in 
place of voting for the official candidates we had voted for the liberals, should 
we have been worse off? I should have saved the amount of my two bonds, 
I should not be going to drill in the landwehr. But what less would I have 
in territorial grandeur and material prosperity ? What is there, that I do not ? 
In what have I weakened the government 1 I don't see that, either. 
What is the upshot of all this. 

The conclusion is that the discussion between La France and Le Temps to find 
out what responsibility rests on public opinion for the Mexican check is without 
cause in a country which, having the right of suffrage, is fully self-possessed. 

La France is wrong when attempting to attribute to a change of opinion a 
check to an enterprise which had the constant approval of the legislative body. 
Le Temps is alike wrong when it attempts to shift off from the country the 
responsibility which does rest upon it. It is necessary that an electoral country 
should well understand that it has not the right to complain Having had the 
power to stop what was doing, it has become fully responsible from what has 



200 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

happened by not preventing it. It should not be that of this country, free in 
its vote, it should be said, " It is the fault of the government." It should be 
told severely : " It is your own fault, for a government based on universal suf- 
frage, necessarily yields to the will clearly expressed by the country, so that, 
in place of sending a majority favorable to the foreign policy of the government, 
you should have sent a majority, equally constitutional, but opposed to the 
policy of intervention, and the government would have abandoned these pro- 
jects." 

So settled, the Mexican check will appear to the people such as it really is : 
a moral victory of constitutional opposition to the majority, a victory of pru- 
dence over devotedness. 

CLEMENT DUVERNOIS. 



No. 70. 
Mr. Seward to Se/ior Romero. 

Washington, January 9, 1867. 

Sir : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of 
the 21st ultimo, containing extracts from some Paris papers relative to Mexican 
affairs, for which be pleased to accept my thanks. 

I avail myself of this opportunity to renew to you the assurances of my most 
distinguished consideration. 

WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 

Sefior Don Matias Romero, fyc, fyc, fyc. 



No. 71. 

Sefior Romero to Mr. Seward. 
[Translation.] 

Mexican Legation to the United States of America, 

Washington, December 22, 1866. 

Mr. Secretary : I have the honor to enclose to you, for the information of 
the government of the United States, a translation into English of an article 
published on the 3d instant by the paper called Diario del Imperio, the organ 
in the city of Mexico of the ex- Archduke of Austria, Don Fernando Maximilian, 
and of a manifesto from him to the Mexicans, dated on the 1st. In these docu- 
ments is reiterated the determination of the ex-Archduke to remain in Mexico 
some time longer, which I communicated to your department in the note which 
I had the honor of addressing to you on the 14th instant. 

In both documents, and especially in the second, are at once noticeable the 
vacillations of its author as to what is best for him to do to get out with less dis- 
credit of the difficult positi n to which he is reduced. After having constantly 
as.-erted that he was called to Mexico by the will of the Mexican people, he 
now wishes to call on that very people to know whether it consents in his con- 
tinuing in the character he has assumed, and for that purpose he announces that 
he is going to convene a congress that may decide this point, and in which all 
parties may be represented. 

If the Mexican people have already expressed their will on this point, why 
should they be consulted again on the same subject ? Besides, that people, 
which, with arms in their hands, have been expressing their will in an unequivo- 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 201 

cal manner, would not lend themselves to participate in elections ordered by- 
Maximilian, should they be attempted ; since they do not recognize the right to 
convoke elections except in the national government, which exercises it in con- 
formity with the constitution of the republic. The complete accord which exists 
between the conduct of the ex-Archduke of Austria and the suggestions made to 
him by his counsellor, M. F. Eloin, in the letter which he wrote to Maximilian, 
dated at Brussels on the 17th of September last, is a very remarkable fact. I 
referred to this letter in the note I had the honor to address to your department 
on the 10th of October following. 

It seems to me, besides, that there is some inconsistency in the present desire 
of the Austrian ex- Archduke to have assembled in congress, for no less a pur- 
pose than that of deciding whether the so-called empire shall exist or not, the 
portion of the Mexican people which has not ceased to resist French interven- 
tion and all its consequences, with the provisions of his decree of October 3, 
1865, which still remains in force, and which, as you well know, provides that 
all Mexicans defending the independence of their country shall be shot, deny- 
ing them even the rights which civilized nations accord to belligerents. 

I avail myself of this opportunity to renew to you, Mr. Secretary, the assur- 
ances of my most distinguished consideration. 

M. ROMERO. 

Hon. William H. Seward, 8fc, fyc, fyc. 



[Enclosure No. 1. — From Diario del Iinperio, (organ of the empire,) November 3.] 
OFFICIAL STATEMENT AS TO MAXIMILIAN'S ABDICATION. 

His majesty, anxious to facilitate the solution of the difficulties created by 
the present crisis, convoked, as is well knoAvn, his council of state at the city 
of Orizaba, and afterward called thither a majority of his ministers for the pur- 
pose of consulting them as to whether the way to accomplish such solution 
would not be to return to the people, from whom he received it, sovereign 
power. As his reason for such resolve, he called their attention to the state of 
the civil war now raging in the empire; to the possibility of a Franco- American 
intervention, for the purpose of bringing such war to an end by a change in the 
actual institutions of the country, and also to the broken-down state of their 
majesties' health. 

His advisers have not deemed these causes sufficient to make the emperor 
resign the supreme power in the present situation of the country. They have 
even besought him to remain at the head of the nation, and thus preserve the 
interests of society, threatened with destruction by revolutionists, and to pre- 
pare to defend, in every eventuality, the independence and nationality of Mexico, 
confided to his care. The appeal in behalf of interests so dear, thus made by 
the highest body in the state, could not pass unnoticed by his majesty, who 
glories in being the first of Mexicans. Determined to make any sacrifice for 
the benefit of his country, his majesty, before acceding to the wishes of his 
council of ministers and of state, awaited only their judgment as to the possibility 
of solving certain political questions relative to the convocation of a national 
congress based upon the most liberal as well as upon universal suffrage ; also 
relative to financial and military matters, and likewise relative to the opening of 
important diplomatic negotiations 

The council decided that these questions would be considered by them at 
once in the order of their respective importance, and at the present moment his 
majesty is taking into consideration their request. 



202 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

[Enclosure No 2.] 

Orizaba, December 1. 

Mexicans : Circumstances of groat magnitude relating to the welfare of our 
country, and which increase in strength by our domestic difficulties, have pro- 
duced in our mind the conviction that we ought to reconsider the power con- 
fided to us. Our council of ministers by us convened has given as their 
opinion, that the welfare of Mexico still requires our presence at the head of 
affairs ; and we have considered it our duty to accede to their request, announc- 
ing at the same time our intention i o convoke a national congress on the most 
ample and liberal basis, where all political parties can participate; and this 
congress shall decide whether the empire shall continue in future; and, in case 
of assent, shall assist in framing the fundamental laws to consolidate the public 
institutions of the country. To obtain this result, our counsellors are at present 
engaged in devising the necessary means, and at the same time arrange matters 
in such a manner that all parties may assist in an arrangement on that basis. 

In the mean time, Mexicans, counting upon you all, without excluding any 
political class, we shall continue the work of regeneration with courage and 
constancy, having been placed in charge of your countrymen. 

MAXIMILIAN. 



[Enclosure No. 3. — From the New York Daily Herald.] 

Orizaba, December 12, 1866. 

MAXIMILIAN'S HIDING PLACE. 

Rightly judging, as events have since shown, that Orizaba would be the next 
point aVappui in the Mexican revolution, I have made my way here, fortunately 
in time to witness the departure of Maximilian. It was a strange fortune that 
thrust this quiet, beautiful city of the mountains into notoriety. Its magnificent 
climate, never very hot and never uncomfortably cold, together with the grand- 
eur of the surrounding scenery, were probably the reasons that recommended it 
to Maximilian as his temporary place of refuge. Strategic merits it has none. 
Here the Austrian archduke whom misfortune has made an emperor has passed 
his time for the last month or two, writing voluminous despatches, which, like 
Mr. Toodle's letters, seem to have reached no one but the writer ; in chasing 
beetles and butterflies and in raising up for himself, on very insufficient capital, 
a great and undeserved reputation as a roue. He used to drive out daily, at- 
tended by only a few Austrian soldiers, and generally in the direction of Coco- 
lapa, where there are a large cotton factory and a paper mill, whose operations 
he found pleasure in watching, till the French, ill-natured and for no other reason, 
apparently, than to give him annoyance, threw a barricade across the road, with 
room only for a horse or foot passenger to pass through Thus cut off from his 
daily drive, Maximilian, who does not much fancy horse exercise, has took to 
pedestrianism, and twenty times a day he was to be seen in the streets, dressed 
simply in a hussar jacket and forage cap, his long lanky legs encased in tight- 
fitting breeches, terminated by Hessian boots, and with no mark of his rank 
except a handsome gold medal on his breast. I met him thus at least three or 
four times yesterday. He was attended by his master of the household only ; 
and, as he walked rapidly along, striding over the gutters and wedging his way 
among the barricades, few turned their heads to look after him, and fewer still 
paid him the slightest mark of respect. He looked careworn and muddled, but 
not in any way depressed. The building which Maximilian has occupied as a 
palace is an unassuming private building, two storied, as all houses are in this 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 203 

volcanic country, and limewashed a dingy green hue. The front part is let out 
as stores, and a tobacconist and a dry-goods dealer hang out their signs under 
the imperial flag. 

THE DEPARTURE. 

Thus matters stood yesterday, when the rumors of Maximilian's projected 
return to the capital, which had for a long time prevailed, begun to assume a 
more connected shape, and gradually it leaked out that Maximilian would cer- 
tainly leave for Mexico city at six o'clock this morning. French troops were 
sent ahead to clear the road as far as Puebla, and all the Austrian troops in 
Orizaba were placed under marching orders. Long before daylight this morn- 
ing the march began, but it was considerably after six o'clock before Maximilian, 
attended by his ever present factotum, Father Fisher, stepped into his travelling 
carriage, drawn by twelve sturdy mules, and gave the word, "On to Mexico." 
Not a cheer was raised nor a hat lifted. The stolid Mexicans who happened to 
be on hand looked on and smiled and chattered placidly among each other, but 
neither seemed nor cared to understand the import of what was occurring. 
The imperial escort consisted of about two hundred Austrian cavalry, all told. 
He leaves behind him none but French troops in Orizaba. 

The issue is reduced to a game of checkmate between Maximilian and 
Marshal Bazaine* Maximilian returns to the capital, not with any strong ex- 
pectation of regaining the power he once wielded there, but to spite and thwart 
the French, whose treatment of him latterly he feels has been neither just nor 
honorable. 

bazaime's designs. 

From the first Marshal Bazaine hated and despised the archduke, who was 
sent out to take a position which he himself coveted. Maximilian instead of 
crushing him when he had the means, weakly sought to propitiate him by costly 
gifts. Bazaine went on consolidating his influence, till at last he got Maximil- 
ian in his grasp, and for the last few mouths he has held him virtually as a 
State prisoner. In every district not overrun by the liberals, Marshal Bazaine 
is emperor of Mexico, not Maximilian. He holds the troops and the purse- 
strings, and has left to Maximilian but the semblance of a sovereignty. More- 
over, facts are coming to light which seem to indicate a design on the part of 
Bazaine to hold on to his power at all risks, with or without the countenance of 
the French government. Vain, ambitious, and unscrupulous, he will stick it 
nothing to carry his ends. From sources of the best information I learn that 
within the last few days he has been endeavoring to open communication with 
the liberals, and even got together such liberal chiefs as he could find, in and 
around Mexico, and made overtures to them for their support. They rejected 
his proposals with contempt. Meanwhile every petty insult and contumely has 
been heaped upon Maximilian to induce him to quit the country. The barri- 
cading of his favorite drive is one of many such acts. 

MAXIMILIAN WANTING TO BOLT. 

It was while the irritation caused by these slights were fresh upon him that 
Miramon and Marquez and his council of state came to Orizaba and urged 
Maximilian to return to the capital. The French were daily pressing him to 
abdicate, and he, to thwart them, was seriously preparing to hurry down to 
Vera Cruz, incognito, and embark at once for Austria. The strong remon- 
strances of Mr. Scarlet, the British minister, against this undignified step alone 
prevented him from doing so, and resulted in the notable Oiizaba manifesto, al- 



204 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

ready published in the Herald. Then it seems to have occurred to him that 
the proposition of Miramon and Marquez afforded him the best opportunity of 
spiting Bazaine and defeating the French; so back to the capital he has gone 

MIRAMON A FUGITIVE — MARQUEZ A FAILURE. 

His allies, Miramon and Marquez, will be able to afford him little assistance 
in his perilous undertaking. Miramon's arrest has been ordered by Bazaine, 
and he has fled to Queretaro, sixty leagues beyond Mexico city. Marquez is 
still in Orizaba, but all he has done towards raising the promised twenty mil- 
lions and army has been to arrest some two hundred laborers, whom he is keep- 
ing in prison till he can get arms to put in their hands, and to steal a few thou- 
sand dollars from the surrounding planters. 

MAXIMILIAN ON THE PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE. 

That portion of the President's message which refers to Mexican affairs was 
telegraphed to Orizaba immediately on its reception in Vera Cruz. Maximilian 
is said to have rather enjoyed it, as affording another chance to humiliate 
Bazaine. 



Vera Cruz, Becemher 14, 1866. 

FRENCH RE-ENFORCEMENTS. 



The French steamer Panama, which has just arrived here, has brought out 
two hundred additional French troops and three hundred barrels of gunpowder. 



SPECIAL ENVOYS. 

M. Eloin, the hero of so many mysterious missions, and a special courier from 
the French government to General Castelnau, also arrived by the steamer. 
The courier started at once by special train for Mexico city. The mysterious 
Eloin quietly booked his place in the diligence and is jogging along in the foot- 
steps of Maximilian. 

SEIZURE OF THE CUSTOM-HOUSE. 

The seizure of the custom-house here by the French troops, on Sunday last, 
has caused considerable excitement. Maximilian sent down an order for 
$50,000 ; the French authorities refused to allow it to be cashed ; the prefect 
protested, but a file of Egyptians cut his protest short. The seizure has been 
made under the convention of September last, but this convention, though it 
was temporarily agreed to by Maximilian, and was sent to France for approval, 
was never signed by him, and is consequently invalid. The French assert 
that they only intend to hold the custom-house for ten days. 

DISTINGUISHED ARRIVAL. 

Jake Thompson is wandering about the city looking considerably dazed. 
He booked by the French steamer for Havana, but as the vessel did not touch 
there he finds himself unexpectedly in Mexico. He can soon hunt up some 
friends here. Beverley Tucker is managing a hacienda at San Luis Potosi, and 
considers he has fallen into a good thing ; and General Price, Governor Harris, 
Judge Perkins and General Joe Shelby are all at Cordova. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 205 

[From L'Estafette, December 2, 1^66.] 
BAZAINE. DANO AND CASTELNAU DEFINE THEIR POSITION. 

The official organ of the empire on the 29th of Novemher published an ar- 
ticle purporting to state the object of the emperor Maximilian in calling his 
ministers and council of state to Orizaba. Said article appeared in the non- 
official columns of that paper ; but it is well known that it had been trans- 
mitted over the telegraph by the ministry, with the order to publish at once. 

Public opinion was justly excited on learning that the emperor Maximilian 
gave as his reasons for an eventual abdication, first, the state of civil war in 
which the country is plunged; and, second, the possibility of a Franco-Ameri- 
can intervention for the purpose of bringing such war to a close through a 
change in existing institutions. 

This last idea may appear strange, put forth as it was from the midst of a 
council which has no safe places of assemblage except under the protection of 
French beyouets. It then becomes important to set forth the truth of the 
case. 

France has no wish to interfere in relation to the form of government which 
the Mexican nation may wish to adopt. Having sent her troops to Mexico for 
the protection of her own subjects, and animated as she is with the desire to 
put an end to the disorders from which all classes suffered alike, she would cer- 
tainly have preferred to see established that form which appears to her eyes as 
offering the strongest guarantees of stability. But far from having done any- 
thing whatever for the purpose of changing the existing institutions, she has 
made the most disinterested but unavailing sacrifices in order to maintain them. 

The trying crisis in which Mexico now linds herself can in no way be laid to 
the charge of France. Her agents have been kept entirely unaware of the 
sudden determination taken by the emperor Maximilian to leave his capital. 
Some of them had no knowledge of his having done so until informed by the 
notice published in the Diario official. 

No one is ignorant, however, of the fact that when only a few leagues away 
from Mexico city he wished to promulgate his act of abdication. And during 
the past month he reverted several times to the same notion, and refrained only 
at the most urgent instance of his suit. All this while the orders connected 
with his departure had been given, and vessels were awaiting him from day to 
day at Vera Cruz. Even the majority of Ins counsellors were kept in utter ig- 
norance of the real intentions of his majesty. The agents of France were 
neither consulted nor notified. However, the emperor Maximilian, having man- 
ifested to them a desire to obtain from them important concessions before taking 
any final step, they made every effort to grant the concessions asked. His 
majesty returned them his thanks for this, and, in view of an eventuality which 
at that stage appeared imminent, but which they had not been instrumental in 
bringing about, they consulted as to what measures might be necessary in order 
to secure the interests of all — Mexicans as well as foreigners — declaring that 
they would leave the Mexican nation to choose its own destiny, and they made 
no attempt or pretence to impose any form of government upon it. They 
could go no further ; and, in view of the action taken by the imperial govern 
ment, their duty becomes very simple. They do not wish to take any part in 
the proceedings of interested parties ; this would be to revive hatred and re- 
kindle the flames of civil war, wl ich they were endeavoring to extinguish. 
Henceforth they will confine themselves to the rigid execution of their instruc- 
tions, namely, to disengage in the most absolute manner, the responsibility of 
their government ; to look only to such interests as it is directly incumbent on 
them to protect ; and to prepare, in the shortest time possible, tbe complete 
evacuation of tbe expeditionary corps. 



206 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

On the following day the Estafette published the following notice : 
"Some persons believe that the official communication which we published on 
Sunday emanated exclusively from the legation of Prance. We are authorized 
to state that the note referred to is the common act of the three high French 
authorities now resident in Mexico — that is, of Marshal Bazaine, the minister 
of France, and General Oastelnau." 

The same journal, as if to show that the French troops are in a hurry to evac- 
uate, gives the following : 

"Lieutenant Colonel the Marquis de Galiffet will take command of the contra 
guerillas in the Tierra Caliente. Colonel Dupin is to be appointed governor of 
the department of Vera Cruz. 

" This looks like vigorous action on the coast." 



No. 72. 
Mr. Seward to Sefior Romero. 

Department of State, 

Washington, January 2, 1S67. 
Sir : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of 
the 22d ultimo, containing a translation of an article published lately in the 
Diario del Imperio, and of a manifesto issued by the Prince Maximilian, show- 
ing his determination to remain in Mexico, for which accept my thanks. 

I avail myself of this opportunity to renew to you the assurances of my most 
distinguished consideration. 



Sefior Don M. Romero, fyc, fyc, fyc. 



WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 



No. 73. 



Sefior Romero to Mr. Seward* 

[Translation.] 

Mexican Legation to the United States of America, 

Washington, December 27, 1866. 

Mr. Secretary: Refering myself to the note which I had the honor to ad- 
dress to the department, dated 5th October last, in relation to the answer I 
gave to an inquiry of General Regules, chief of the army of the centre of the 
republic of Mexico, about a continuation of hostilities against the forces invading 
Mexico, I have now the satisfaction of sending you copy of a communication 
which I have received from Mr. Lerdo de Tejada, minister of foreign relations 
of the constitutional government of the republic, dated at Chihuahua on the 
16th of November last past, and marked No. 502, in which are approved the in- 
structions I gave on that occasion to General Regules. 

I avail of the occasion to renew to you, Mr. Secretary, the assurances of my 
most distinguished consideration. 

M. ROMERO. 

Hon. William H. Seward, Sfc>, Sfc, fyc. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 207 

[Translation.] 

DEPARTMENT OF FOREIGN RELATIONS AND GOVERNMENT — DEPARTMENT OF 
RELATIONS, AMERICAN SECTION, No. 502. 

Chihuahua, November 16, 1866. 

With your notes ISTos. 660 and 679, dated 5th and 12th of October last, you 
sent me a copy of a communication which was addressed to you by General 
Regules, chief the army of the centre, about the conduct of the French along 
the line of his command, and a copy of the reply you gave him, as well as 
copies also of the note in which you gave notice of the former to Mr. Seward, 
and of his reply. 

The President of the republic, being informed of these, has approved of what 
you say to General Regules about the compromises of the French government 
with that of the United States as to the non-continuance of intervention in Mex- 
ico, which are not compromises in which the government of the republic has 
taken part, and in no way affect the war which the forces of the republic must 
continue to carry on as before against the invading forces. When there is oc- 
casion you can communicate to General Regules that the government has ap- 
proved your answer, and, in view of it, have considered it unneccesary to address 
to him a communication of like import on said affair. 

I protest to you my respectful consideration. 

LERDO DE TEJADA. 

Citizen Matias Romero, Envoy Extraordinary 

and Minister Plenipotentiary at Washington. 

Washington, December 27, 1866. 
A copy: 

C. ROMERO, Acting Secretary. 



No. 74. 

Mr. Seward to Sertor Romero. 

Department of State, 

Washington, January 2, 1867. 

Silt : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of 
the 27th ultimo, containing a copy of a note addressed to you by Mr. Lerdo de 
Tejada relative to some instructions which you gave General Regules, and the 
tenor of which you communicated to this department on the 5th of last October, 
and to beg of you to receive my thanks for the information. 

I avail myself of this opportunity to renew to you the assurance of my most 
distinguished consideration. 

WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 

Seiior Don M. Romero, 8fc., Sfc, 8fc. 



No. 2. 

MILITARY OPERATIONS OF THE NORTHERN DIVISION. 
List of papers. 

15. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward (with 4 enclosures) April 8, 1866. 

76. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero July 19, 1866. 

77. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward (with 7 enclosures) April 25, 1866. 



208 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

78. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero July 6, 1866. 

79. Mr. Eomero to Mr. Seward (with. 4 enclosures) April 26, 1S66. 

80. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward (with 18 enclosures) August 1, 1866. 

81. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero August 8, 1866. 

82. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward (with 25 enclosures) November 27, 1866. 

83. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero December 8, 1866. 



No. 75. 

Sefior Romero to Mr. Seward. 
[Translation.] 

Mexican Legation to the United States of America, 

Washington, April 8, 1866. 
Mr. Secretary : For the information of the government of the United States* 
T have the honor to enclose you No. 11 of the official paper of the government 
of the republic of Mexico, published at the town of Paso del Norte, on the 8th 
day of May last, containing the official report made by the governor and military 
commander of the State of Coahuila to the minister of war, in relation to victo- 
ries gained over the interventionists at San Juan de Guadalupe, and the hacienda 
of San Carlos, State of Durango, by the forces of the republic, together with the 
reply of General Ignacio Mejia, minister of war. 

I avail myself of the opportunity to protest to you, Mr. Secretary, the assur- 
ances of my most distinguished consideration. 

M.ROMERO. 
Hon. William H. Seward, fyc, Sfc., fyc. 



[Enclosure No. 1. — From the official paper of the Mexican government, No. 1J, volume 2, 
El Paso Del Norte, March 8, 1867.] 

GOVERNMENT AND MILITARY COMMANDANCY OF THE STATE OF COAHUILA DE 

ZARAGOZA. 

The success of our arms at San Carlos and San Juan de Guadalupe, and the 
nattering prospect in the district of Parras, caused this government to attract 
the enemy's attention by sending to Monterey for Colonel Geronimo Trevino's 
forces, and proposing an attack on Saltillo or the city of Monterey itself. As 
the plan seemed plausible, an attack on Saltillo was fixed for the 15th instant. 
When the two hundred men were ready, (all we could arm in that quarter,) a 
despatch was received from the alcalde of Cuatro Cienagas, informing us of the 
arrival there of Colonel Jesus Gonzales Herrera, from Parras, with three hundred 
men, having been driven out by Briucourt in force, aided by other imperialists 
under Francisco, Trevino, and Maximo Campos. Of course this delayed our 
proposed expedition. 

Not many days had passed before we heard from that quarter. Mention was 
made of the burning of Matamoras and Soledad, in that district, and of many 
houses of good patriots in Viesca ; we heard of the murder of more than fifty 
innocent and unarmed persons, among them two men over eighty years of age, 
and a child of twelve. It was also said that Brincourt's division had gone back 
to Durango, and left only three hundred French in Viezca. 

As Colonel Gonzales had three hundred men with him, and could soon collect 
those dispersed by the French ; and as the troops of Jeanningros were scattered 
at Parras, Saltillo, Rinconada, and Santa Catarina, and there were only six 
hundred of the enemy in Monterey, we determined to attack that town. On the 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 209 

3d instant six hundred men were sent to Bajan, to act in concert with Colonel 
Trevino and Francisco Naranjo, with all probability of success. 

I cannot omit to mention in this place, Mr. Minister, the honorable conduct of 
the people of this frontier. Considering the precarious situation to which they 
have been reduced by this foreign war, they have performed wonders ; supplies 
have been furnished abundantly to our troops ; clothing, horses, and arms to the 
forces of Laguna ; and $9,000 to equip troops for Colonel Naranjo. Besides 
this they equipped 300 for Victoriano Zepeda, and furnished powder and other 
munitions to some forces in the State of New Leon. 

Now the commander-in-chief will have the pleasure of starting on his expe- 
dition with men well clothed and well provided, and by the uninvited efforts of 
private citizens, prompted solely by feelings of patriotism and the desire to see 
foreigners driven from the land they have desecrated. 

I must also inform you of the lucky escape of Commander Victor Berlanga 
from an ambuscade, laid for him by the French in the State of Durango, with 
the loss of only a few provisions. 

I will give you the particulars of the last fight as soon as they reach me. 

I have the honor to inform you of this, that it may be communicated to the 
supreme chief of the republic. 

Independence and liberty! San Buenaventura, January 29, 1866. 

A. S. VIEZCA. 

Eduardo Musquiz, 

Secretary pro tempore. 

The Mimster of War, Chihuahua. 



[Enclosure No. 2.] 
DEPARTMENT OF STATE, OFFICE OF WAR AND MARINE — SECTION FIRST. 

The citizen President of the republic has considered your communication of 
the 29th January, stating the plans for a new campaign, and the generous aid 
contributed by the people of the State, and is much pleased at such proofs of 
patriotism. He orders me to thank you and the citizens who have aided to fit 
out the expedition. He is indignant at the barbarous conduct of the French 
troops, who came to burn the houses of Laguna, because they were whipped at 
San Juan de Guadalupe and San Carlos, and General Brincourt came all the 
way from Durango to murder two old men and a child. Such deeds are evi- 
dence of the evils of intervention ; and these sanguinary and inhuman practices 
the French make use of to terrify the people will certainly be avenged. 

Independence and liberty ! Paso del Norte, March 6, 1866. 

MEJIA. 

The Governor and Military Commander 

of the State of Coahuila de Zaragoza, (wherever he may be.) 

Paso del Norte, March 6, 1S66. 
True copies : 

MARIANO DIAZ, Chief Clerk. 



[Enclosure No. 3.] 

GOVERNMENT AND MILITARY COMMANDANCY OF THE STATE OF COAHUILA DE 

ZARAGOZA. 

Colonel Jesus Gonzales Herrera informed me in a despatch of the 22d ultimo, 
from San Fernando, State of Durango, that about the middle of the month he 
14 MEX. 



210 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

marched on Parras, with one thousand men, aided by Colonel Juan Vega, with 
all the men he could raise in the district ; on the way he received an insulting 
challenge from the French officer in San Juan de Guadalupe, so he determined 
to attack that place first. He ordered Colonel Dario Lopez Orduno forward 
with a section of his troops, and he began the assault with his usual impetuosity. 
But a mortal wound soon disabled him, and he was brought from the field in a 
dying condition. Victor Berlanga succeeded him in command, and soon gained 
a complete victory. The enemy left seventy killed and many wounded and 
prisoners. Three men who were placed over the city to govern it were shot by 
our forces. We next moved on to San Carlos, in the same State, where there 
were 300 French and a number of traitors. The attack was made, and the 
enemy fled, leaving sixteen killed, fifteen wounded and five prisoners. We also 
got eighteen fine horses. Though the soldiers were very tired, they pursued 
the enemy for several leagues. Colonel Herrera adds that he is now collecting 
his forces to move on Parras, which place he hopes to occupy in a very short 
time. 

It affords me much pleasure to communicate to you these favorable feats of 
arms for the information of the President. I will make honorable mention of 
the men who distinguished themselves as soon as I get the particulars of the 
engagement. 

Liberty and reform! Monclova, January 1, 1866. 

A. S. VIEZCA. 

Eduardo Muzquiz, 

Secretary pro. tern., Chihuahua. 



[Enclosure No. 4. ] 
DEPARTMENT OF STATE, OFFICE OF WAR AND MARINE, SECTION FIRST. 

Your report of the 1st January of the victories at San Juan de Guadalupe 
and San Carlos, in the State of Durango, by Colonel Jesus G. Herrea, has been 
made known to the President of the republic, and he orders me to say to you 
that he is satisfied with the important results of those operations, and the gal- 
lant conduct of the chiefs and men engaged in them. 

I have the honor to communicate this to you for your information and the 
gratification of all interested. 

Independence and liberty ! Paso del Norte, March 6, 1866. 

MEJIA. 

The Governor and Military Commander 

of the State of Coahuila de Zaragoza, (wherever he may be.) 

Paso del Norte, March 6, 1S66. 
True copies : 

MARIANO DIAZ, Chief Clerk. 



No. 76. 

Mr. Seward to Senor Romero. 

Department of State, 
Washington, July 19, 1866. 

Sir : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of 
the 8th of April, containing a copy of No. 11 of the official paper of your 
government, giving the correspondence of the military commander of the State 
of Coahuila with the minister of war of Mexico, on the subject of some mili- 
tary operations, and to thank you for the information. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 211 

I avail myself of this occasion to renew to you the assurances of my most 
distinguished consideration. 



WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 



Senor Don Matias Romero, fyc., Sfc, fyc. 



No. 77. 

Senor Romero to Mr. Seward. 

[Translation.] 

Mexican Legation in the United States of America, 

Washington, April 25, 18G6. 

Mr. Secretary : I have the honor to transmit to you the copy of a note which 
I have just received from Senor Lerdo de Tejada, minister of foreign relations 
of the Mexican republic, numbered 167, and dated El Paso del Norte, 29th of 
March last, together with No. 13 of the official paper of the constitutional gov- 
ernment of the Mexican republic, of the same date, containing the official report 
and other documents in relation to the victory at Santa Isabel, on the first of 
March last, of the patriotic sons of Ooahuila and New Leon over a force of 
French and traitors, who were entirely destroyed. 

I also enclose a copy of the paper. 

I embrace the occasion to renew to you, Mr. Secretary, the assurances of my 
most distinguished consideration. 

M. ROMERO. 

Hon. William H. Seward, fyc, 8fc, Sfc. 



[Enclosure No. 1.] 

DEPARTMENT OF FOREIGN RELATIONS AND GOVERNMENT — OFFICE OF RELA- 
TIONS, AMERICAN SECTION, NO. 167. 

Paso del Norte, March 29, 1865. 
I enclose you No. 13 of the official paper of the government of this date, con- 
taining the report of General A. S. Viesca, and other documents relating to the 
victory at San Isabel on the first of this month, by the patriotic sons of the States 
of New Leon and Coahuila, over a force of French and traitors, who were en- 
tirely destroyed. 

Accept my attentive consideration. 

LERDO DE TEJADA. 
Citizen Matias Romero, • 

Envoy Extraordinary and Minister Plenipotentiary 

of the Mexican Republic in Washington. 

Washington, April 25, 1S66. 
A true copy : 

IGNO. MARISCAL, Secretary. 



[Enclosure No. 2. — From No. 13 of the official paper of the constitutional government of the 
Mexican republic, Paso del Norte, March 29, 1866.] 

GOVERNMENT AND MILITARY COMMANDANCY OF THE FREE AND INDEPENDENT 
STATE OF COAHUILA DE ZARAGOZA. 

After the detailed account I gave the department on the lStlf ultimo, I am 
now pleased to report another complete victory gained by our forces on the first 
instant, and the operations of my brigade and the northern cavalry under Colonel 
Geronimo Treviiio. 



212 CONDITION OF AFFAIKS IN MEXICO. 

On the 16th of February last, a column of French forced me to evacuate Farms 
and take shelter in Laguna, to recruit there and finish the traitor Maximo Campos 
before the French could aid him. I did not succeed in this, because the traitors 
fled, and took a rapid circuit over the frontiers of Durango and Zacatecas, and 
then joined the French in Parras. I continued to watch that place while two 
French columns of eight or nine hundred men were approaching me from 
Durango and Chihuahua. I retained my position till the 27th February, when 
I heard that Geronimo Trevino and Francisco Naranjo were approaching Parras 
to aid me with their cavalry. I immediately divided my brigade into two 
columns, so as to march on Parras from different directions, and wait for the 
expected cavalry in the neighborhood. This was accordingly effected. On the 
morning of the first, my first column joined Colonel Trevino's cavalry at Santa 
Isabel, three leagues distant, having marched thirty leagues without stopping. 

Two hours after camping, we heard firing in our front. At first I supposed 
it was an accidental skirmish, but I was soon informed that the enemy had made 
•a formal attack upon our front. I soon agreed with Colonel Trevino upon a 
mode of defence, and in a very short time we were ready for the fight. Our 
advance of forty men, under Colonel Joaquin Garza Leal, bravely resisted the 
attack of 215 French and more than 400 traitors for two hours, and then fell 
back in good order to our camp, without the loss of a man. 

We then attacked the enemy with two columns of infantry on the left flank, 
sent one forward in the centre, and a company of cavalry to the right. The 
fight soon became general ; our brave men made an obstinate resistance, and 
finally put the enemy to flight, leaving the field strewn with the dead and 
.wounded, their baggage scattered around, and many prisoners in our hands. 
The northern legion and Parras lancers pursued them for some distance, as 
you will learn from the enclosed report of Colonel Trevino. I also enclose a 
list of our losses, and those of the enemy, as well as a list of the French pris- 
oners in our hands. 

No victory could be more complete than ours on that glorious day, and I take 
great pleasure in congratulating the President of the republic on the happy in- 
fluence this brilliant victory will have on our future operations. 

The behavior of our officers and men was all that could be expected from 
gallant Mexicans fighting for their honor and the liberties of their country ; 
every man did his duty ; all shared equally the dangers and deprivations ; and 
all rushed forward in full hope of the victory with which they were gloriously 
crowned. 

I can make no special recommendations where all behaved in a manner to 
merit the praises of their countrymen, but I must not omit to mention Colonel 
Geronimo Trevino, Colonel Francisco Naranjo, and Lieutenant Colonel Antonio 
Perez Villareal, who rendered themselves conspicuous for skilful management 
of their commands and their personal courage. 

I make this communication for the information of the President of the republic. 

Independence and liberty ! Curatro Cienegas, March 9, 1866. 

A. S. VIEZCA. 

The Minister of War, (wherever he may be found.) 



[Enclosure No. 3.] 

OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY OF GOVERNMENT AND MILITARY COMMANDANCY 
OF THE FREE AND SOVEREIGN STATE OF COAHUILA DE ZARAGOZA, NORTH- 
ERN CORPS'OF THE REPUBLICAN ARMY, FIRST DIVISION OF CAVALRY. 

Colonel-in-Chief: I have the honor to inform you that, in obedience to orders 
from General Mariano Escobedo, in Linares, I started from Vivaldama with the 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 213 

first cavalry division, of S00 men, in the direction of Parras, to join the attack 
on the traitor Maximo Campos, in that place. 

On the road I heard of your encounter with Oampos's forces, and that a col- 
umn of 200 French were coming to his aid from Saltillo I immediately con- 
ceived the design of attacking them on their march, but at Cahos I was informed 
they had already reached Parras, and were preparing for defence in that city. 

On receiving -a despatch from you I resolved, to march on to Parras, according 
to my first plan. 

I waited for the Ooahuila brigade at this place yesterday ; it arrived about 
midnight, and camped alongside of us. 

At three o'clock in the morning I heard that the enemy, 450 traitors and 215 
French, were approaching. 

I immediately ordered a line of battle to be formed, and wait for the onset. 
The enemy soon approached rapidly. He was warmly received by the Mon- 
clova squadron, under Lieutenant Colonel Ildefonso Fuentes, and the northern 
legion. 

The combat soon became general. The enemy attacked the left angle of our 
line and tried to flank us with his cavalry, while a column of infantry doubled 
our right. The principal attack was bravely resisted by Colonel Naranjo and a 
part of the Coahuila brigade. I now ordered the cavalry under Lieutenant 
Colonel Joaquin Garza Leal and Emiliano Laing, and two infantry columns 
under Salvador Fernandez de la Cavada and Ruperto Martinez, to make the 
attack in front, while Colonel Pedro A. Gomez attacked on the left flank. 

The enemy soon began to retreat under this combined movement, arid we 
continued to pursue till nearly two-thirds were killed, and the rest surrendered 
at discretion. The field was covered with dead. All their horses and munitions 
of war fell into our hands. We found one piece of mountain artillery. 

I think it my duty to commend to your excellency all the officers and men 
who took part in this battle, though you were an eye-witness to their gallant 
conduct. 

I also send lists of the killed, wounded, and prisoners of the enemy, with the 
munitions of war which we captured from him on the field of battle. The list 
of our killed is also included. 

Accept the protest of my consideration and respect. 

Independence, liberty, and reform ! Hacienda of Santa Isabel, March 1, 1866. 

GERONIMO TREVINO. 

The Governor and Military Commander 

of the State of Coahuila de Zaragoza, Present. 

Cuatro Cienegas, March 9, IS66. 
A true copy : 

EDUARDO MUZQUIZ. 



[Enclosure No. 4.] 

REPUBLICAN ARMY, MILITARY COMMANDANCY OF THE STATE OF COAHUILA DE 

ZARAGOZA. 

List of the hilled, wounded,, and missing of the republican forces in the battle 
of the first of March, and that of the enemy, with the prisoners and munitions 
of war captured. 

LOSS OF THE REPUBLICAN FORCE. 

Cavalry division. 

Killed. 

Lieutenant 1 

Second Lieutenants 3 



214 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

KilleJ. 

Sergeant 1 

Soldiers 5 

Total 10 

Wounded. 

Colonel 1 

Lieutenant colonel 1 

Captain 1 

Sub-lieutenant 1 

Sergeants . . 2 

Corporal 1 

Soldiers 15 

Total 22 

Coahuila brigade. 

Missing 1 

LOSS OF THE ENEMY. 
Second battalion of the foreign regiment. 

Killed 118 

Prisoners 81 

Total 199 

Loss among the traitors. 

Killed 13 

Prisoners 85 

Total , 98 



Munitions of war left by tlie enemy on the field of battle. 

Pieces of artillery, one; flags, one; carbines, sixty-six; rifles, fourteen; mus- 
kets, ninety-one; bayonets, ninety-two; cartridge-boxes, eighty-seven ; swords, 
ten; revolvers, ten; lances, fifteen; axes, two; saddles, nine; pack-saddles, 
eight; war-chests, three; flag-staffs, one; wagons, one; pack-mules, seventeen ; 
horses, twenty-seven. 

Note No. 1. — The piece of mountain artillery taken from the enemy is of the 
calibre of four inches. 

Note JS'o. 2. — Of the eighty-one French prisoners, there is one second lieu- 
tenant, nine sergeants, twelve corporals, and the rest soldiers. There are seven 
officers among their killed, including Commander Briant. 

J. CARRLLLO, 
"Lieutenant Colonel and Chief of Staff. 

Cuatro Cienegas, March 9, 1866. 



I certify to the above : 



VIEZCA. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 215 

[Enclosure No. 5.] 
ARMY OF THE NORTH, FIRST CAVALRY DIVISION — OFFICE OF MAJOR GENERAL. 

List of officers killed and wounded in the battle of Santa Isabel, near Pan-as, 

on the first of March. 

Chiefs: Colonel Francisco Naranjo, second in command of the division, 
wounded; Lieutenant Colonel Antonio Perez Villareal, brevet major of the 
second brigade, wounded. 

Officers: Captain Antonio Magnon, wounded; Lieutenant Cayetano Guevara, 
killed; Ensign Pablo Ancora, wounded, and died two days after; Ensign Her- 
menegildo Farias, wounded; Ensign Fernando Macias, killed. 

PEDEO A. GOMEZ. 

Cuatro Cienegas, March 9, 1866. 

Cuatro Cienegas, March 9, 1S66. 
A true copy: 

EDOUARDO MUZQUIZ, 

Secretary pro. tern. 



[Enclosure No. 6.] 

MEXICAN REPUBLIC — REPUBLICAN ARMY — MILITARY COMMANDANCY OF COA- 

HUILA DE ZARAGOZA. 

List of French prisoners, including wounded, of the second battalion of the for- 
eign regiment, taken on the glorious day qf the first of March. 

Second Lieutenant Montier. 

Sergeants : Garelle (wounded,) Echmann, Crala, Conston, Acombela (wounded,) 
Desbardes, Stenck, Pulois, Ceconni (wounded.) 

Corporals: Glame, Wensolbuk (wounded,) Connel (wounded,) Valf (wounded,) 
Holins (wounded,) Ferault, Menange, Gemonpret, Marval, Raulx, Bosquet 
(wounded,) Mathas (wounded.) 

Soldiers: De George, Reys, Clad, Ewing, Delimege, F. Muller, G. Muller 
(wounded,) Zulig, Keber, Chaumam (wounded,) Obnecht (wounded,) Mentha, 
Sonferce, Pace, Pella (wounded,) Cabout (wounded,) A. Muller (wounded,) 
Parture (wounded,) Dender, Rubber, Manzt, Schapel, Pauly, Albert, Mars, 
Stok, Antonio (wounded,) Marchant, Eschener, Bait (wounded,) Menges, Kaf- 
semberg, Slambak, Vorf'eld, Shoumaker, Balki, Charles, Schmilk, Paltriuieri, 
Creau, Mainzh, Heina, Wiltmaye, Kovber, Muller, Mies, Hensein, Rimoldi, 
Geringer, Meunos, Becker, Mudispacher, Heffneich, Bebaker, Aoss, Voigt, Zun- 
nier, Menthe (wounded,) Heilfreick (wounded,) Idatt (wounded.) Total, 81. 

F. CARRILLO, 

Lieutenant Colonel and Chief of Staff. 
Cuatro Cienegas, March 9, 1866. 



A certified copy; 



VIEZCA. 



[Enclosure No. 7.] 

)FFICE OF THE SECRETARY OF STATE, BRANCH OF WAR AND MARINE — SEC- 
TION FIRST. 

Your report of the 9th instant has given the President of the republic great 
/satisfaction; he is rejoiced at the defeat of the French and traitors who dared 



216 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

to attack us on the first at Santa Isabel. This great feat of arms, the result of 
your plans and your courage in carrying them out, is of great importance on 
the frontier, and will have a good influence on the success of our future opera- 
tions. 

The worthy and gallant behavior of the chiefs, officers, and soldiers, who 
took part in the conflict mentioned by Colonel Geronimo Trevino in his report, 
is properly appreciated by the President, and he instructs me to thank you for 
the part you took in the fight, as well as all others who acted so gallantly on 
the occasion. 

The especial recommendations you make in your report will be attended to 
by the government, with respect to the persons mentioned ; and the gallant con- 
duct of all will be remembered, that they may be noticed in their turn. 

The President wishes you to give the greatest care to the wounded, and 
make a list of those maimed or killed in the action, that they or their heirs may 
enjoy the corresponding pensions. 

The great sacrifices the people are making to sustain and increase the forces 
that are fighting for national independence, and the self-denial and patriotism of 
those who are serving personally, are the surest guarantees of the safety of the 
country. 

Independence and liberty ! Paso del Norte, March 29, 1866. 

MEJIA. 

The Governor and Military Commander 

of the State of Coaliuila de Zaragoza. 

Paso del Norte, Maxell 29, 1866. 
The above are authentic copies : 

MARIANO DIAZ, 

Chief Officer. 



No. 78. 

Mr. Seward to Senor Romero. 

Department of State, 

Washington, July 6, 1866. 
Sir: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of 
the 25th of April last, containing copy of a note addressed to you by Senor 
Lerdo de Tejada, also No. 13 of the official paper of your government, for which 
please accept my thanks. 

I embrace this opportunity to renew to you the assurances of my most dis- 
tinguished consideration. 



Senor Don M. Romero, fyc, §r.., fyc. 



WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 



No. 79. 

Senor Romero to Mr. Seward. 
[Translation.] 

Mexican Legation in the United States of America, 

Washington, April 26, 1866. 
Mr. Secretary: I have the honor to enclose you the copy of a note received 
yesterday from Mr. Lerdo de Tejada, minister of foreign relations of the Mexi- 
can republic, dated at Paso del Norte, the 30th of March last, numbered 175, 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 217 

and a supplement to No. 13 of the official paper of the constitutional govern- 
ment of the Mexican republic of the same date, containing official reports of the 
complete victory gained by the national forces of Mexico, under General Ter- 
razas, in the capture of Chihuahua on the 25th of the same month. In the same 
paper, a copy of which I enclose, you will find an official report of tbe capture 
of Hidalgo del Parral on the 22d of March, by Colonel Vazquez, who took that 
city by assault. 

All the invading forces have finally been driven from the State of Chihuahua. 

I accept the occasion to renew to you, Mr. Secretary, the assurance of my 
most distinguished consideration. 

M. ROMERO. 

Hon. William H. Seward, fyc, Sfc., fyc. 

Acknowledged July 6, 1866. 



[Enclosure No. 1.] 

No. 175.] . Dep't of Foreign Relations and Government, 

Paso del Norte, March 30, 1866. 
In the supplement to No. 13 of the official paper of the government which I 
send, you will find reports of the complete victories gained by the national 
forces under General Luis Terrazas, in the capture of the city of Chihuahua, 
on the 25th of this mouth. 

You will also see a report of the capture of the town of Hidalgo del Parral 
on the 22d, by Colonel Agustin Vazquez, with the arrest of the pretended 
traitor, political prefect Julio Carranco. 

Thus you will see that the State of Chihuahua is now free from the enemy. 
Accept the protests of my attentive consideration. 

LERDO DE TEJADA. 
The Minister of the Mexican Republic. 

in the United States of America. 

Washington, April 26, 1866. 
A true copy : 

IGNO. MARISCAL, Secretary. 



[Enclosure No. 2. — supplement to No. 33 of the official paper of the constitutional govern- 
ment of the Mexican republic] 

GOVERNMENT AND MILITARY COMMANDANCY OF THE STATE OF CHIHUAHUA. 

I reached this place at nine o'clock yesterday morning, and the enemy sallied 
out to attack me very soon after I came in sight. He was instantly driven 
back, leaving one hundred prisoners in our hands, many killed, wounded, and 
missing, and one cannon. The city was then assaulted, and by noon the traitors 
were confined to their fortifications and the city captured. The forts were fired 
upon during the day, and were soon to have been assaulted ; but at eleven 
o'clock at night most of the officers and a number of soldiers managed to escape, 
leaving us three hundred prisoners and all the munitions of war. 

The fugitives took the road to San Pablo ; I ordered them to be pursued, and 
hope they are secured by this time. 

Our loss in killed and wounded is not great, considering the duration of the 
unequal contest. We lost nothing else. 

I will send a complete report as soon as I can get the particulars ; in the mean 
time I wish to recommend to the government the entire State brigade, its officers 
and men, and other officers whose services have been of the greatest importance. 



218 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

Please report this to the President of the republic, and congratulate him upon 
this triumph of the national arms. 

Independence and liberty ! Chihuahua, March 26, 1866. 

LUIS TERRAZAS. 
The Minister of War and Marine, Paso del Norte. 



[Enclosure No. 3. ] 
GOVERNMENT AND MILITARY COMMA NDANCY OF THE STATE OF CHIHUAHUA. 

Colonel Agustin Vazquez, commander of the southern State line, reports as 
follows, from Hidalgo city, the 22d instant : 

" I reached the suburbs of Hildalgo city at noon to-day, with the forces 
under my command, and immediately marched to meet the enemy in the place. 
The fight soon began, and lasted till three in the evening, when the enemy sur- 
rendered, and I took possession of the city. 

" All my men behaved gallantly, and I recommend them to you for it. Our 
loss was insignificant, while the enemy's was great. 

" I will send a complete report as soon as it can be made out, and congratulate 
the supreme national government, as well as the State government, on this signal 
triumph. 

" I will continue to hold the place till I receive further orders from the su- 
preme government." 

I make this known to you for the information of the President of the republic. 

Independence and liberty ! Chihuahua, March 26, 1866. 

LUIS TERRAZAS. 

The Minister of War and Marine, Paso. 



[Enclosure No. 4.] • 

GOVERNMENT AND MILITARY COMMANDANCY OF THE STATE OF CHIHUAHUA. 

The political and military chief of the canton of Rosales sent the following 
report to me yesterday : 

" Long live the supreme government ! Long last the independence of Mexico ! 

"As soon as I heard of the direction the fugitives had taken — the routed 
traitors had taken to the hills — I called together a few neighbors and started in 
pursuit of them. We succeeded in catching the so-called prefect, Julio Car- 
ranco, ensign Teofilo Cabezuela, a man named Miguel Vargas, who says he is a 
private individual, and fourteen soldiers. They are now confined here at the 
disposal of the government." 

This is reported for the information of the President, and to ask him what is 
to be done with the prisoners mentioned. 

Independence and liberty ! Chihuahua, March 27, 1866. 

LUIS TERRAZAS. 

The Minister of War and Marine, Paso del Norte. 



No. SO. 

Senor Romero to Mr. Seward. 
[Translation.] 

Mexican Legation in the United States of America, 

Washington, August 1, 1866. 
Mr. Secretary : I have the honor to remit to you for the information of the 
government of the United States the documents mentioned in the annexed in- 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 



219 



dex, which show what have been the military operations of the army of the 
north of the republic of Mexico, from the beginning of April to the end of June 
last, in which such operations ended with the capture of Matamoras, after the 
complete victory obtained by the national forces over the enemy at La mesa de 
banta Gertrudis on the 16th June aforesaid. 

This is a very satisfactory occasion for me to renew to you, Mr. Secretary 
the assurance of my most distinguished consideration. ' 

Hon. William H. Seward. 



Index of the documents which the Mexican legation at Washington remits to 
the Department of State of the United States, with its note of this date, upon 
the military operations of the army of the north. 



9 
10 
11 
12 
13 
14 
15 
16 
17 
18 




Contents. 



May 27 
May 30 

May 31 
June 5 



8 June 8 



June 30 
June 16 
June 16 
June 19 
June 17 
June 1 7 
June 17 
June 23 
June 23 
June 23 



Proclamation of General Garza, chief of the forces of the south and centre 
ol lamauhpas, to the troops which sustained the usurpation of Maximilian. 

Umcial report ol General Albino Espinosa, quartermaster general of the 
army of the north, to General Escobedo, chief of said army, of the battle 
ol lanquecitos against Dupin on April 24, 1866. 

Proclamation of General Pedro Martinez, chief of the third brigade of cav- 
alry ol the army of the north, to the towns along the southern line of 
JNew Leon. 

Proclamation of General Escobedo, of the army of the north, on occasion of 

late events. 
The constitutional alcalde of Rio Blanco communicates to General Esco- 
bedo the outrages committed by the French in that settlement during the 
occupation by them. & 

The commander of the squadron of Eio Blanco makes similar communica- 
tion to General Escobedo. 

General Escobedo orders General Trevino, in command of the first division 
or cavalry of the army of the north, to make reprisals on the prisoners 
taken from the enemy. v 

Proclamation of Lieutenant Colonel Darius Garza, of the army of the north 
to the inhabitants of the second district of the State of New Leon on 
account ol the depredations committed by the French 

Introduction to the official documents on the victory of" La mesa de Santa 
Gertrudis. 

Official report of General Escobedo to the minister of war, of the victorv of 
La mesa de Santa Gertrudis. 

Proclamation of General Escobedo, congratulating the troops of his com- 
mand on their participation in such victory. 

Report in detail from General Escobedo to the department of war, of the 
same victory. 

Statement of the number of killed, wounded, and prisoners in the battle of 
La mesa de Santa Gertrudis. 

Statement of the armament and munitions taken from the enemy at the 
mesa de Santa Gertrudis. 

Account of the chiefs, officers, and soldiers taken prisoners from the enemy 
at the battle of La mesa de Santa Gertrudis. 

Capitulation of the city of Matamoras, by which it was delivered to the 
lorces ol the national government of Mexico. 

Proclamation of General Caravajal to the inhabitants of Tamaulipas, men- 
tionmg the occupation of Matamoras. 

Proclamation of General Garza to the inhabitants of Matamoras. 



Washington. August I, 1866. 



IGNO. MARISCAL, Secretary. 



220 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

[Enclosure No. 1.] 

The general commanding in chief 'the forces of the central and southern districts 
of Tamaulipas to the troops of any nationality sustaining the empire. 

Victoria, February 22, 1866. 

Soldiers : It is four years since you were brought here to fight us, who 
only ask to govern ourselves according to republican principles. You are made 
to believe that the ridiculous throne of Maximilian can be consolidated in this 
country, and you have not been told that we are so far from accepting it that 
the only emperor we ever had (Iturbide) paid with his head for the title he 
bore so short a time. 

Iturbide was a Mexican — was supported by Mexicans. He had in his favor 
the great renown which he justly obtained by making us shake off the Spanish 
yoke, and yet he fell. Do you think that a foreigner, sustained by foreigners, 
who comes from Austria, begging the protection of Napoleon III, to make 
himself emperor of a country which does not even know him, can long usurp 
the supreme power of our country % Soldiers, you have been misled. In lieu 
of a military promenade, which you thought to take through our country, you 
find that every one of our defiles swarms with liberal forces, always ready to 
oppose you. 

Many among you have come to make part of the so-called guard of the em- 
peratrez ; but, in place of the life of luxury which you expected, you are 
obliged to run over Mexico from one end to the other, to meet death at the 
hands of the audacious guerillas. 

French, Germans, Belgians, Italians, (I address myself to all foreigners who 
compose the imperial army :) Our country has magnificent lands, which only 
await laborious hands to repay with usury the trouble of cultivation. Abandon 
that army which wages such an unjust war upon us ; come where the defenders 
of Mexican independence are found. If you wish to share our toils, you shall 
enjoy the same privileges as the republican soldier. If you prefer your pass- 
ports for the north or any other foreign country, they shall be furnished you, 
with all the securities of our legislation. But if you wish to settle as peaceable 
citizens on any part of our lands, you shall be protected so that you may live 
quietly. 

Many among us formerly belonged to the French army and the foreign legion ; 
they can tell you how they have been treated. You will then see that I do 
not mislead you. 

JUAN J. DE LA GARZA, 
General-in-Chief of the Independent Forces of the. 
Central and Southern Districts of Tamaulipas. 



[Enclosure No. 2. — From the official paper of the constitutional government of the Mexican 
republic, No. 18, Paso del Norte, May 31, 1866.] 

ARMY CORPS OF THE NORTH. 

We take the following despatch from the official bulletin, of Linares : 

Soledad, April 25, 1866. 

I am pleased to inform you that I started on the 24th, at three in the morning, 
for Valle de Purisima, with a division of infantry and one section of mountain 
artillery. We left the sick and baggage at that place. 

The design of this march was to attack a force of French and traitors, con- 
sisting of 300 infantry, 300 cavalry, and two pieces of mountain artillery, under 
Dupin, that had arrived at Arroyo on the 23d. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 221 

On the morning of the 24th, I arrived at the Tanquecitos and Soledad cross- 
roads, where I found General Aureliano Riveras, at the head of the San Luis 
cavalry brigade. Scarcity of water along the main road forced me to the Cha- 
vez pond, where I arrived at three in the afternoon. After a short rest, I went 
on to Tanquecitos. On the way, I perceived a great dust on the left of the 
road, near Jaramillo, and soon learned from scouts that it was caused by the 
enemy's cavalry returning from water. 

_ I immediately ordered citizen Aureliano Riveras, with 100 cavalry, to attack 
him, and cut off his return to the town, or to feign an attack and draw him into 
ambush, while I took possession of Tanquecitos and intrenched there. 

At half past five in the afternoon I ordered cannon to open on the place, to 
drive the enemy out. He soon returned the fire, but did not continue Ion-. 
Irusting to their strength, the French traitors dashed upon us, and we had to 
give back till we came to the infantry, when the battle became general 

I then ordered Colonel E. Mayer with the Zaragoza battalion to a stream 
where cavalry could only pass in two places. He started with the shout of 
hurrah tor the republic ! and very soon came up with the enemy. Iu the mean 
time I sent Colonel A. Flores, with a battalion of hunters and a company of 
sappers, to take the advance. They marched forward with the same shouts of 
confidence. 

_ Some of the enemy that had crossed in pursuit of our cavalry had to retreat 
in double-quick, and fell back to the protection of a column of infantry and a 
piece of artillery. But he soon returned to the charge, with a company of 
rifles, and came within a few yards of our lines. I had already begun to advance 
with the rest of the battalions and two pieces of artillery, trusting the left to 
Colonel L. Oasares, of the mixt battalion. I ordered an attack, firing in battal- 
ions, and it was so mortally destructive, the traitors soon retreated. 

1 now ordered General Riveras to cross the river and drive the enemy back • 
and I gave a similar order to Captain Garcia, who commanded the escort The 
enemy now presented himself for the third time, but was so warmly received 
by our cavalry he had to retreat in great precipitation. 

Our victory was complete ; we held possession of the field ; but the darkness 
ot the night favored the enemy in his escape, and he carried off the greater 
part of his dead and wounded. We found ten Europeans killed on a small 
space ot ground; so we judge his loss must have been one-fourth. The trai- 
tors are generally one-half; and, as we did not find one of them dead upon the 
held, we think they must have deserted when returning from water, instead of 
joining the French. 

As my only object was to whip Dupin, and I knew he was expecting 300 
men to re- enforce him, I started for this place, where I arrived at noon to day. 

m Uur loss was insignificant ; as soon as I learn it, I will let you know. A few 
side-arms and saddled horses fell into our hands. I cannot recommend any 
officer especially, as they all behaved courageously. After a march of fourteen 
leagues, over a rough road, without water or provisions, our brave fellows whip- 
ped an equal number of the enemy, better armed and provisioned. 

_ I congratulate you, general, on this national victory of the 24th of April, beg- 
ging you will make it known to the President of the republk^ & 
Independence and liberty ! 

Pv M ^ ALVINO ESPINOSA. 

Citizen Mariano Escobedo, 

General-in-Chief of the Northern Army Corps at Linares. 

. , Linares, April 26, 1866. 

A true copy : r 

J. G. DORIA, Secretary. 



222 CONDITION OF AFFAIES IN MEXICO. 

[Enclosure No. 3.] 

Pedro Martinez, cavalry colonel, chief of the third brigade in the southern line 
of New Leon, to the people of Galeana, Yturbide, and Rio Blanco : 

Fellow-citizens : The convicts Pablo Basaldua and Juan Martinez have 
this day been sentenced to suffer the extreme penalty of the law, for treason to 
their country, in aiding and abetting its enemies in the destruction of its towns. 
The former deserted from the home company of Galeana Jose Maria Mufios, 
and joined the invaders, to guide them in their destructive expeditions. The 
latter was put in office by the enemy, and exerted himself as an informer against 
his countrymen, persecuting his own people, and even turning against his master. 

It is painful to be obliged to inflict the extreme penalty of the law upon sons 
of our own people, who have given many proofs of patriotism in the present con- 
test ; but even that fact aggravates the crime for which they must pay dearly, 
those who look upon this war as they have upon others, and think their crimes 
will go unpunished. No, my friends, treason must be punished upon the sacred 
soil of our liberties, and those are much mistaken who think they can fight for 
gain, but are not obliged to fight for the salvation of their country. 

You have already seen what you are to expect from strangers, who sack our 
towns to civilize, us, murder our defenceless families to teach us humanity, and 
commit all sorts of atrocities in the name of peace. This was recently done at 
Eio Blanco, where the bandit Dupin, the hyena of Tamaulipas, hung invalids 
and cripples, whose brothers had taken up arms in defence of their country. 

Can any one remaiu indifferent, after witnessing such conduct ? Do you not feel 
the blood mount to your faces, my friends, when you seethe foreigner insult 
you in your houses ? You have strong arms yet, and the advantage of a good 
cause. Where are the fortunes you labored for so hard I Gone! All passed 
into the hands of those who came to teach you to save, and to establish order 
and morality. You understand them now. You know the fine phrases they 
use to hide the thirst for robbery which they feel, and the iniquitous plan of 
their despotic master, the Emperor of the French. We must now pay them for 
the harm they have done us, and the only way to do this is to take up arms and 
fight our way to victory, leaving our families in the mountains till peace recalls 
them to their homes. Down with the infamous invaders and the hateful 
traitors ! 

And you, people of the southern part of New Leon, you who have not yet felt the 
invader's yoke, look at the fate of Galeana, Rio Blanco, and Yturbide, and see 
what you are to expect, if you do not rise at once to defend your rights and the 
holy cause of the independence of our mother country. 

Yes, fellow-citizens, war to the knife against the slaves of Napoleon, who are 
polluting our soil, who come to destroy our nationality and rob us of our wealth. 
Down with Maximilian, who has the effrontery to call himself emperor, and 
then kneels to his French master, begging him to oppress the Mexican people, 
and cement his throne with their precious blood. Down with the invaders and 
traitors ! Let us sustain our independence and the supreme magistrate of the 
nation. Hurrah for the republican army ! 

Galeana, May 22, 1866. 

PEDRO MARTINEZ. 



[Enclosure No. 4.] 

Mariano Escohedo, general of the republic and chief of the army corps of the 
north, to the troops of his command: 

Companions-in-arms : The enemy having prepared a great combination 
to fight our forces, and, as announced by his chief Doual, to annihilate us, 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 223 

several Franco-traitor columns were set in motion on the march from Monterey, 
Saltillo, and Matelmala. The proposed operations were nullified in a few mo- 
ments, as may be said, for they were compelled to return to their former position, 
and suffered greatly in their transit from desertions. There is scarcely a bat- 
talion constituting the first cavalry division but what has lost some soldiers 
through desertion. This simple fact, laying aside their hurried countermarch, 
which can well be termed a flight, manifests how demoralized and tired of fight- 
in ' are those who have adhered to " the Austrian," and how anxiously they 
await the time when they can return to their homes, very sorry, as they are, that 
they ever came to this country to cement a throne which is in open opposition 
to the conviction and will of the Mexican people. 

That constancy and valor which are always the distinctive characteristics of 
great souls have ever animated the heroes of Paso de las Cubas, Villa de Gua- 
dalonpe, Monterey, San Salvador, and St. Isabel, and in many other combats in 
which the liberal arms were covered with glory. 

Soldiers ! The enemy has lost all hope of triumph. For this reason you see 
him flee whenever you approach. Despair has made its way in his midst, 
causing him to abandon his banners and seek yours. 

Forward, braves ! forward ! the republic has a right to expect great things of 
you yet. There are many forced marches to be made, battles to be fought, ene- 
mies to conquer, and injuries to avenge. Will you fall back now when the 
enemy has almost given up all hopes of conquest ? The valor you possess, the 
constancy and decision of your chiefs, and the good sense and feeling of the 
people everywhere, make us hope that you will not recede, and that you will not 
desist until you see your country happy and free. 

Then will you have fulfilled your duty, and history will record your actions, 
and the future generations will bless your names. 

MARIANO ESCOBEDO. 

Linares, Maxj 27, 1S66. 



[Enclosure No. 5.] 
CONSTITUTIONAL JURISDICTION OF RIO BLANCO. 

You have heard of the enemy's movement upon this valley through the com- 
munications of Colonel Pedro Martinez. He remained several days in Soledad, 
and then retired to Laja ; but this was only a feint to make us believe he had 
left. He returned on the 19th with 1,200 men, 600 of which were traitors, and 
took us by surprise. They remained eight days in the valley, and then went 
back to Soledad. They shot six unfortunates, viz: Isidoro Martinez, Xicolas 
Rodriguez, Mateo Ortega, Hijinio Flores, Gregorio Ramirez, and Pedro Melen- 
dez. They broke open the doors and sacked all the houses ; took all the corn 
they could find ; destroyed all the standing grain ; killed all the hogs and chickens 
in the valley, throwing the offal into the streets and public squares till the smell 
was intolerable, and threatened an epidemic. They broke into the judge's office, 
destroyed the archives, threw loose papers into the streets, broke the chairs 
and benches, and carried off all the arms they could find. They took the image 
of St. Francis out of the church and fastened it to a pole ; they despoiled the 
Virgin of Sorrows of her finery, and divided it among them ; and then laid the 
body of the saint upon the altar ! They killed a servant of Estauisiao Camacho, 
at Virgin ranch, and stole all the cattle in the surrounding pastures. They did 
the same at the farms of San Juan, Sandia, and Pequeiio. It is not known 
exactly how many cattle were taken, but the rough estimate is 3,000. 

The valley is completely ruined, and its inhabitants reduced to the greatest 
distress. They will have to go elsewhere to find food, as everything was taken 
or destroyed by the enemy. 



224 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

The people of San Jose did not suffer so much, as their visitors did not num- 
ber more than one hundred French, who made their appearance on the 22d, and 
were soon repulsed and driven across White river by Captain Oamero. 

They caught a Spaniard named Jose Respaldiza, at Bocacil, and made him 
cut grass for their horses. They carried off Encarnacion Alvarez and Florencio 
Gonzalez from the valley. They tried to catch Commander Reyna, but he got 
out of their way. 

I send you this despatch from my farm of Joya de los Encinos, where I in- 
tend to stay till the enemy makes his appearance. 

Accept my respect and high regard. 

A. GONZALES. 

The Citizen Don Mariano Escobedo, 

Governor and General-in-Chief of the Northern Army. 

May 30, 1866. 

I certify that this is a copy of the original. 

Given at Paso del Zacate, on the 5th day of June, 1866. 

J. C. DORIA, Secretary. 



[Enclosure No. 6.] 

REPUBLICAN ARMY OF THE NORTH — FREE SQUADRON OF RIO BLANCO — COM- 
MANDER-IN-CHIEF. 

From the enclosed despatch of the chief official of this city, you will see the 
harm that the bandit Dupin has done here. Every family is in mourning; the 
house-doors have been broken, and the houses sacked. The people have suf- 
fered much ; there is no exaggeration ; the alcalde's report is true. You could 
not believe the devastation without seeing it ; everything is destroyed, and it is 
impossible to live here. Higinio Flores was sent to tell the French were coming, 
when Dupin caught him and had him shot. Isidoro Martinez was sick at home, 
and Mateo Ortega was not in service ; Gregorio Ramirez had a brother in our 
army ; they were all three shot. Nicolas Rodriguez had been ensign, and they 
murdered him. The other man they murdered was half-witted and nearly blind, 
yet they had him shot. I cannot sufficiently express my horror at these vile 
assassinations. 

I make this communication for consequent action. 

Independence and liberty! Rio Blanco, May 31, 1866. 

M. REYNA. 

The Citizen Mariano Escobedo, 

General-in-Chief of the Northern Army. 

Paso del Zacate, June 5, 1866. 
I certify the above to be a true copy of the original. 

J. C. DORIA, Secretary. 



[Enclosure No. 7. ] 
NORTHERN ARMY CORPS — GENERAL-IN-CHIEF. 

The repeated acts of cruelty and barbarism committed by the invading army, 
whose leaders have not regarded the laws of war, have compelled our supreme 
constitutional government to issue various orders and circulars, and, among 
them, the general order of the 15th of November to the army corps under my 
command. The substance of that order was that I should observe the same 
conduct towards their prisoners that the enemy showed to us, and this was 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 225 

made known to them through some exchanged prisoners. General Douay, com- 
mander of the forces that devastated Rio Blanco, Galeana, and Linares, could 
but know what to expect from men he called bandits, thieves, and robbers if 
his men were taken prisoners by them. And now the alcalde of Rio Blanco 
informs me that six men were shot by the French without the least form of 
trial, though they were unarmed citizens. 

Humanity can hardly believe that chiefs of a civilized nation would commit 
such atrocities under a banner that boasts of the greatest enlightenment in 
Europe. But, now that Rio Blanco, Galeana, and Iturbide are destroyed, we 
must obey orders, and retaliate. 

Since the enemy desire it, I command you to execute six of the French pris- 
oners now in your hands within three hours after the reception of this despatch, 
in compliance with this order, and to make the execution known, and the names 
of the persons executed. 

Independence and liberty ! Paso del Zacate, June 5, 1866. 

M. ESCOBEDO. 
General G. Trevino, 

Chief of the First Cavalry Division of the Northern Army at Cerralvo. 



[Enclosure No. 8.] 

Dario Garza, cavalry lieutenant colonel of the republican army, chief of scouts 
in the northern army, to the citizens of the second district of the State of New 
Leon and his under officers. 

Friends and Fellow-citizens : The cut-throats and pirates sent to devas- 
tate our unfortunate country by that ambitious tyrant, Napoleon III, under the 
name of an army, to rob us, murder us, and establish a ridiculous empire, with 
the scion of a degraded house, no longer conceal their aims. 

The destruction of Galeana and San Pedro de Iturbide by Douay, the cruelty 
of Jeaningros at Allende towards old man Garza Valdez, are facts that speak 
plainly. Let us prepare to repel force by force, and let us make one more 
effort to escape his cruel mode of civilization by making victims of us ; we pre- 
fer death to dishonor and such enlightenment. 

Fellow-soldiers, it is your place to chastise his audacity; he will find us 
always ready to fight, and must acknowledge us worthy defenders of our coun- 
try Show him no mercy; give none to his traitor allies ; let Mexico struggle 
for her captured rights, and her name will be respected and admired by the 
entire universe. 

Subordination and discipline, abnegation and patriotism, are the virtues needed 
to make our enemies tremble at our approach, and repent that they had ever 
assaulted a free nation. 

Let us make one more effort, with faith and confidence, ana you may be sure 
I will be by your side, your companion and friend. 

Independence, the supreme national government and the republican army, 
forever! Toro Ranch, June 8, 1866. 

DARIO GARZA. 



[Enclosure No. 9.] 
The battle of Santa Gertrudis : a victory over the enemy on the 16th of June, 1866. 
The glorious victory of the 16th of June, over the traitors at Santa Gertrudis, 
is one of the most important of this war. If, in a military point of view, it is 
not so important as that of the 5th of May, no other can be compared to it in 
political and military consequences. It demoralized the escort of silver from 
15 Mex. 



226 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

Monterey to Mier, and caused the surrender of Matamoras. News from the 
latter place, and intercepted letters, show how complete the demoralization was. 
There was desertion from the Belgian forces, and their number was so diminished 
that they were obliged to retreat in haste, not delivering the specie they had in 
charge. 

The surrender of Matamoras, from peculiar circumstances, was an unexpected 
event. It was certain the place was destined to fall into the hands of the forces 
fighting at Santa Gertrudis; but it was hardly believed the traitors would evac- 
uate the place when our forces were fifty leagues distant. This shows the great 
importance of the victory in a moral point of view. There was the greatest dis- 
order among the rebel troops when they left Matamoras ; that public opinion, 
hitherto suppressed by bayonets, was against them. 

The victory of Santa Gertrudis, and the consequent evacuation of Matamoras 
by the traitors, have given a solid basis of operations to the republican army. 
The immense supplies captured will help to organize a strong army that can 
carry the war into the interior as soon as Monterey is taken. The possession 
of Matamoras puts us in communication with the United States, whence the 
necessary arms and ammunition can be obtained. If we add to this the moral 
effect of the victory in other parts of the country, we can easily comprehend its 
importance to our cause. The defenders of the republic have hitherto been rep - 
resented as disorganized bands of robbers ready to run at the slightest notice; 
but it is now seen they form a regularly organized army, well disciplined. The 
late victory is a proof of this ; numbering less than the traitors, they attacked 
them and routed them completely. The enemy had every convenience for de- 
fending the convoy, or they would not have started with it. 

The elegant discipline of the liberal army is also shown in its conduct just 
after the victory ; the convoy was captured entire, and delivered intact to the 
commander. That shows the discipline of the republican soldier, and is the 
best refutation of our enemy's base calumny. They erected gibbets to hang 
our patriots as robbers. 

Before concluding, I must say something about the results of this signal vic- 
tory. It is not an isolated fact, but the result of mature patriotic deliberations. 
One year ago all the frontier was under the so-called empire, and those who 
sympathized with the national cause had to conceal their opinions or suffer the 
violence of arbitrary power. Yet in those trying times there were men who 
did not lose all hope. Solitary and alone they rushed into the combat, and con- 
tending with every difficulty, they raised armies and marclied ahead, inspired 
by patriotism and the hope of ultimate success. They routed the enemy fre- 
quently, and thus commanded respect. The victories of Paso de las Cabras, 
Santa Isabel, Catorce, and Valle de Purisima are so many laurel crowns upon 
the temples of the Mexicans who offered themselves a sacrifice to the republic. 

Let us trust to our faith in independence as long as there remain such men as 
fought at Santa Gertrudis. We will not despair in the hour of misfortune, but 
will encourage the desponding to fight on to the bitter end. 

Matamoras, 30th Jurte, 1866. 

EMILIO VELASCO. 



[Enclosure No. 10.] 
MEXICAN REPUBLIC — NORTHERN ARMY CORPS— GENERAL-IN-CHIEF. 

I have the honor to inform you of the splendid republican victory at Santa 
Gertrudis, gained by my forces over the Austrians and traitors escorting a convoy 
of goods from Matamoras to Monterey. I had only 1,500 men, with the first 
Tamaulipas brigade, under Colonel Canales, while the enemy had 2,000. Trust- 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 227 

ing to superiority of numbers he attacked me in my intrenchments, where I was 
waiting. He had the advantage of artillery, too. The attack was violent, but 
my troops were not dismayed in the least ; we reserved our fire till the enemy 
came close, then fired and charged bayonet, driving him back in great confusion. 

The victory is complete, and though we have not yet struck our tents, we have 
picked up more than a thousand muskets and other arms, have captured all the' 
artillery, six field pieces, two mountain pieces, and any quantity of ammunition; 
leaving more than four hundred killed on the field, most of them Austrians, a 
great many wounded, and over eight hundred prisouers, two hundred of whom 
are foreigners. Our loss is only two hundred men killed and wounded. As soon 
as I can collect the particulars I will make a report of the battle. 

I cannot commend any one of my men in particular ; all did their duty, fight- 
ing like good Mexicans for the honor of the republic and our national indepen- 
dence. 

Please communicate this despatch to the supreme magistrate of the nation, 
and felicitate him, in the name of the army corps of the north and the first Ta- 
maulipas brigade, on this day's brilliant victory of the republic over its foreign 
enemies. 

Independence and liberty ! In camp, 16th June, 1866. 

M. ESCOBEDO. 
The Minister of War and Marine 

of the Mexican republic, (wherever he may be.) 

Camargo, June 17, 1866. 
A true copy : 

J. C. DORIA, Secretary. 



[Enclosure No. 11.] 

Mariano Escobedo, general of the republic and chief of the northern army 
corps, to the troops that took part in the battle of Santa Gertrudis : 

Companions in arms : The national arms are once more crowned with glory; 
your forced marches and untold hardships have not been useless, for the Austrians 
and traitors, though superior to you in numbers, have been forced to succumb to your 
courage and resolution. You have brought the usurper's Austrian mercenaries to 
your feet to implore your clemency, and you, fierce in combat but generous in vic- 
tory, like true soldiers of the republic, have been merciful to them. The men that 
appeared so mighty in your front not long ago exist no more ; those not killed 
are wounded and prisoners ; a few officers escaped, but their flags and treasures 
remain in our hands. Their chiefs, miserable cowards, had not the courage to 
brave death on the field of battle, but trusted their lives and safety to the fleet- 
ness of their horses. 

• F S j W soldiers ' the iuva ded republic confides its salvation to the courage of 
its children, and I am sure they will protect it or perish in the attempt. One 
year ago we were fighting without resources, almost without hope, with nothing 
but our patriotism to sustain us, yet our faith in the national cause never wa- 
vered ; now that the northern army is everywhere victorious , who will dare to 
oppose it ? Let us hasten onward, fellow soldiers, and capture Matamoras ; then 
we can have time to rest. We will leave a guard to protect our rear, and then 
Monterey and Saltillo will soon be ours ; the frontier will be freed from the odious 
presence of the invaders and their accomplices ; we will carry the war into the 
interior of the republic, and help our brothers to fight till our soil is rid of the 
slaves of Napoleon the Third. You know, fellow soldiers, we have always re- 
spected the law and the customs of society ; go on, as you have done up to this 



228 CONDITION OF AFFAIES IN MEXICO. 

time, battling with the enemy and protecting peaceful citizens, and our cause will 
surely triumph in the end. Then you can settle down quietly with your fami- 
lies, and hold up your head in pride at having done your duty, fighting for na- 
tional independence and the honor of the republic. 
Camp at Santa Gertrudis, lQ>th June, 1866. 

M. ESCOBEDO. 



[Enclosure No. 12.] 
MEXICAN REPUBLIC — NORTHERN ARMY CORPS — GENERAL-IN-CHIEF. 

According to my promise on the 16th, I have the honor to give a complete re- 
port of the battle of Santa Gertrudis, which you will communicate to the citizen 
President. 

I had already fixed my headquarters at Linares, wiien I was informed that 
the enemy from Matamoras and Monterey had united to protect a convoy of 
merchandise and specie between the two cities. Without knowing whether to 
credit the report or not, I took the necessary precautions of stationing a division 
of infantry at China, the second cavalry brigade at Paso del Zacate, and the first 
brigade between Monterey and Ceralvo. To cut off re-enforcements for the 
French column that had left Monterey, I ordered Colonel Pedro Martinez to 
threaten Saltillo with 300 cavalry, assisted by the governor of Coahuila with 
iiis available force, while Lieutenant Colonel Antonio Garcia should watch every 
entrance to Monterey, and prevent any communication. 

When my forces were thus stationed, I learned that 1,500 French and 500 
traitors had left Monterey on the 7th. This report was soon confirmed by Gen- 
eral Geronimo Treviiio, who was watching them, and annoying them in every pos- 
sible way, blocking up the road, filling the wells and springs, and using every le- 
gal strategy to harass an enemy. In the mean time I was expecting to hear of 
the enemy coming out of Matamoras as an escort to a caravan of goods for Mon- 
terey ; but Colonel Canales, who was on the lookout, could obtain no such in- 
formation. I then determined to march out to meet the French, which I did on 
the 9th, stopping the first night at Aldamas. On the 10th I came within ten 
leagues of Ceralvo, where I remained the 10th and 12th, watching the enemy. 
The French got to Ceralvo on the 12th, and I learned from a captured messen- 
ger from Mejia to De Tuce, that they would not leave there till they heard the 
convoy had got to Mier. For this reason I changed my plan of operations, and 
by forced marches reached Santa Gertrudis, three leagues from the enemy, on 
the 15th. Knowing the enemy would be obliged to advance, as there was not 
enough water for his 2,000 mules, I prepared for battle in the following manner : 
I divided my forces into five columns for attack, and one for reserve. Colonels 
J. A. Flores and Luis G. Caceres, over the 1st infantry column of 250 men, 
with the 1st brigade. The second column, of the same number of men, was 
commanded by Colonels Miguel Palacios and Edelmiro Mayer. The third, of 
300 men, by Colonels Francisco Naranjo and Adolpho Garza. Fourth, the 
Tamaulipas brigade, of 300 rifles, under Servando Canales and Julian Cerda, 
with two columns of cavalry. Fifth, composed of the northern legion, under 
Joaquin Garza Leal, and the' Lampazos explorers, under Juan N. Saenz and 
Higinio Villareal, all under the command of General Geronimo Trevifio. The 
reserve of 300 men, sappers, sharpshooters, and riflemen of the Rio Grande, 
was commanded by Colonel Salvador F. de la Cavada and Lieutenant Colonel 
Vicente Mariscal. 

Thus divided, the columns were sent into the field to await the enemy, who 
aoon appeared, leaving his baggage in the rear. On the 16th, at six in the 
acuorning, the enemy opened upon us with his cannon, while the infantry con- 



CONDITION OF AFFAXKS IN MEXICO. 229 

tinued to advance slowly. My orders were implicitly obeyed ; the men lay flat 
on the ground, the cavalry concealed in a thicket of trees. The enemy con- 
tinued to advance till he got within rifle-shot of our lines, when I ordered my 
men to charge. This was done bravely ; the infantry continued to advance, till 
both armies had to combat with side-arms. The enemy feigned an attack on 
our left with two infantry columns, and attempted to surround us. Atthfc mo- 
ment I ordered the cavalry to charge, and General TreviSo made a bold assault 
on the right. This was so successful that the enemy was completely flanked on 
the left. The combat with side-arms was of short duration, having ended at 
seven in the morning, with the complete destruction of the austrio-traitor forces. 
I enclose a report of the killed and wounded (No. 1 ) on both sides, and ol 
the prisoners we have taken. No. 2 is a list of artillery, arms, &c, taken from 
the enemy. No. 3 is a list of the prisoners. The traitors are not included, be- 
cause they are incorporated into our ranks. No. 4 is a general sketch of the 
battle. 

^ I cannot make particular recommendations, because, as I said, every man did 
hi3 duty. Convinced of the justice of the cause, our soldiers had no doubt of vic- 
tory, and marched forward certain of success. During the combat there were 
many personal encounters worthy of the greatest admiration. 

As a consequence of this glorious triumph of the national cause, the garrison 
in Matamoras is thrown into the greatest confusion, and, to take advantage of it, 
I will march upon the place to-morrow, hoping to be able to give you an early 
account of my expedition. 

Before concluding I must praise this army under my command for its excel- 
lent conduct and discipline, and recommend it to the notice of the citizen Presi- 
dent of the republic, with whom I rejoice at this signal triumph of our glorious 
cause. 

Independence and liberty ! Camargo, June 19, 1866. 

mi , M. ESCOBEDO. 

The Minister op War and Marine 

of the Mexican Republic, (wherever he may be.) 

Camargo, June 20, 1866. 
A true copy : 

F. 0. DORIA, Secretary. 



[Enclosure No. 13.] 
No. 1. 

NORTHERN ARMY CORPS — HEADQUARTERS. 

List of killed, wounded, and prisoners at the battle of Santa Gertrudis, on the 

IQth of June, 1866. 

KILLED. 

The loss in the republican forces was 1 colonel, 1 commander, 9 lieutenants, 
17 sergeants, 23 corporals, and 104 soldiers— making a total of 155. 

Killed of the traitors : 1 lieutenant colonel, 2 commanders, 9 captains, 12 
lieutenants, and 227 soldiers— a total of 251. 

The Austrians lost 1 captain, 2 lieutenants, and 142 soldiers— total, 145. 

A total in both armies killed, 551. 

WOUNDED. 

Of the republicans : 2 commanders, 1 lieutenant, 4 sergeants, 14 corporals, 
and 57 soldiers — total, 78. 



230 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

Traitors wounded : 2 commanders, 11 sergeants, 29 corporals, and 79 soldiers — 
making a total of 121. 

Austrians wounded : 1 captain, 2 lieutenants, 1 sergeant, 7 corporals, and 33 
soldiers — a total of 44. 

Number of wounded in both armies, 243. 

! PRISONERS OF WAR. 

Of the traitors: 1 lieutenant colonel, 1 commander, 5 captains, 20 lieuten- 
ants, 51 sergeants, 57 corporals, and 723 soldiers — a total of 858. 

Austrian prisoners: 1 captain, 5 lieutenants, 9 sergeants, 8 corporals, and 120 
soldiers — total, 14d. 



Prisoners in all, 1,001. 

Camp at Camargo, June 17, 1866. 



A certified copy 



SOSTENES ROCHA. 

Camargo, June 17 1866. 
F. C. DOEIA, Secretary. 



[Enclosure No. 14.] 

No. 2. 

List of artillery and ammunition, tools, arms, gun-carriages, cartridge-boxes, 
8fc, taken from the enemy at the battle of the 16t7i of June, 1866. 

CANNON AND HOWITZERS. 

24-pounder howitzer, mounted and in good order. 1 

One 8-pounder, in same condition 1 

Four rifled cannon do 4 

Two rifled cannon, Prussian make, not mounted 2 

Making a total of eight pieces 8 

GUN-CARRIAGES. 

For battery 3 

For ammunition 2 

Total 5 



TOOLS AND ARMS. 

Swabs, with shaft and ramrod for 8-pounders 8 

Directing levers for same 8 

Swabs for 24-pounder howitzers, and ramrod 2 

Directing levers for same 6 

Field buckets 6 

Ammunition sacks „ 6 

Cartridge-boxes 6 

Punches 12 

Housings 12 

Spare lances, (one unarmed) 2 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 231 



ARTILLERY AMMUNITION. 



Shells for 24-pounder howitzers 11 

Grape shot for same 

Round shot for 8-pounders 20 

Grape for same 16 

Shells for rifled cannon, 4-pounders , - - • > 420 



Solid shot for same 60 

Grape for sai 
Patent fuze 



Grape for same 80 



INFANTRY ARMS. 

Musket cartridges 12, 000 

Austrian rifle cartridges 13> 0^0 

Percussion caps 30, 000 

ARMS. 

Percussion and Mississippi rifles 930 

Bayonets for same 275 

Bayonets without rings 280 

Austrian rifles (calibre not known) 266 

Slings for same 250 

Lances with pennants — , 38 

Sabres .■ - 5 ± 

MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS. 

Infantry cornets 2o 

Infantry cornets, Austrian make 3 

Clarionets 3 

Bass drums ., 3 

SOSTENES ROCHA. 

Camp at Camargo, June 17, 1866. 

Camargo, June 17, 1866. 

A certified copy: 

F. O. DORIA, Secretary. 



[Enclosure No. 15.] 

No. 3. 

List of prisoners taken on the 16th of June, 1866. 

Salvador Iglesias, lieutenant colonel of the cazadores de Queretero, a native 
of Mexico, (Yucatan;) Manuel Lozada, commander of battalion, same corps, 
Mexican; Mauricio Medelin, retired, New Leon; Augustin Gordillo, belonging 
to the engineer corps, native of Spain ; Juan Gomez Oalcerrada, captain in the 
infantry corps, Spaniard; Andres Pichardo, of Guanajuata; Benito Barcenas, 
captain, Mexican ; Francisco Alvaredo, captain, Mexican; Romulo Amarillas, 
captain, Mexican; Paulino Valderas, adjutant, Spain; Pedro Ceavez, adjutant, 
Spain; Jesus Garcia, lieutenant, Jalisco; Ramon Saavedra, lieutenant, Guana- 
juata; Jos6 Lara, lieutenant, Spain ; Francisco Velazquez, second lieutenant, 
Mexico; Pedro Rosas, second lieutenant, Mexico; Felipe Rivera, second lieuten- 
ant, Mexico; Desideris Saldana, second lieutenant, Mexico; Hipolito Varte, 
second lieutenant, Mexico; Pioquinto Estrada, second lieutenant, Mexico; 
Toribio Garcia, second lieutenant, Mexico; Prisciliano Torres, second lieuten- 



232 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

ant, Mexico; Vicente Martinez, second lieutenant, Mexico; Santiago Gandara, 
second lieutenant, Mexico ; Lorenzo Perez, second lieutenant, Mexico ; Antonio 
Hernandez, ensign, Mexico; Simon Eodriguez, ensign, Mexico ; Vicente Lopez, 
ensign, Mexico; Dario Martinez, ensign, Mexico. 

Austrian officers and soldiers. 

Captain Federico Ludozice, cazador, Austria; Santiago S. Eoue, cazador, 
Poland; Antonio Adam, cazador, Austria; Felipe Saber, cazador, Germany; 
Francisco Bittner, cazador, Austria; Carlos Schmidt, cazador, Bohemia ; Miguel 
Balmutti, cazador, Austria; Julio Voit, cavalry, Austria; Luis Bernee, cavalry, 
Austria; Luis Snatzochina, artillery, Austria; Carlos Gobet, artillery, Austria; 
Jose Holfeld, cazador, Austria; Francisco Gottluher, cazador, Austria; Simon 
Vervucobit, cazador, Austria; Ugo Prohasha, cazador, Austria; Ferdinand 
Herhti, cazador, Austria; Manuel Edelsbacher, artillery, Austria; Eduardo 
Hassold, artillery, Austria ; Jose Jacober, artillery soldier, Austria; Juan Wald- 
shutz, artillery soldier; "Wenzel Fuchs, artillery soldier; Matias Mihula, artillery 
soldier; Jose Sroco, artillery soldier; Juan Kudjic, artillery soldier ; Francisco 
Krebinski, artillery soldier; Antonio Calli, artillery soldier; Miguel Barofs, 
artillery soldier; Ferdinand Garofs, artillery soldier; Francisco Pehafez, artillery 
soldier; Juan Roll, artillery soldier; Julio Remph, artillery soldier; Jose Gasi- 
gag, artillery soldier; Jose Pitez, artillery soldier; Longinos Lohez, artillery 
soldier; Mauricio Watez, artillery soldier; Antonio Rofset, artillery soldier, 
Austria; Juan Bradt, artillery soldier; Francisco Joseht, artillery soldier; 
Martin Hlict, artillery soldier; Gregor Baron, artillery soldier; Manuel Edels- 
bacher, corporal, Austria; Eduardo Haisold, Jose RusfF, Sustar Knie, Ferdi- 
nand Fogu, Heinrich Muller, Carlos Pipink, August Moluar, Alexander Baum- 
kirchner, soldier ; Ferdinand Maurfer, soldier; Franz Eckert, soldier; Frederick 
Schonberger, soldier ; Carlos Roster, soldier ; Jose Gufo, soldier ; Miguel Schoef- 
fer, soldier; Juan Woneck, soldier; Carlo Michalka, soldier; Carlo Norback, 
soldier; Miguel Genmeides, soldier; Antonio Koniak, soldier; Juan Servoboda, 
soldier, Austria : Francisco Tra, Matias Garbuski, Francisco Silz, Antonio 
Anderuhuka, Jose Rofiner, Carlo Grifiler, Matis Cealik, Andres Sevak, Miguel 
Zokrzenoski, Josh" Tellenak, Jose Metnez, Ignacio Schantaker, Francisco Tiro- 
her, Francisco Koih, Leopold Jolf, Francisco Fuhzer, Francisco Hora, Fran- 
cisco Krirvoruk, Jose Levada, Ignacio Dobrogoloki, Anton Kaltenbik, Vincenz 
Kautzki, Anton Klutz, Juan Silmids, Francisco Barenbank, Tomas Anto- 
millo, Jose Cirigatti, Dominick Sartori, Jose Bekars, Jose Paradiso, Benjamin 
Fosalusa, Francisco Herdina, Andres Schussner, Juan Wenderslads, Luis 
Gmeindl, Jose Remes, Jose Erotka, Dionio Tavan, Alvert Crefmer, Antonio 
Grill, Julio Wetzelhofer, Jose Kula, Matias Doehnal, Francisco Goldriech, 
Pedro Kautzer, Jacobo Reger, Jose Chodera, Francisco Flugler, Juan Bachaiz, 
Juan Womiak, Casparo Potroni, Juan Moos, Juan Haure, Antonio Bolondez, 
Franz Bagaiz, Jose Ruspinetz, Juan Kerosine, Francisco Hadaie, Auguit St. Poul, 
Jose Homser, Jose Sergety, Eugen Gnet, Andre Alsenasik, Antonio Uretsehez, 
Wenzel Greezi, Alveit Golenz, Martin SchifHer, Gustav Hajek, Miguel Benveld, 
Jacobol Anisehka, Anton Mesaco, Stefan Balogh, Georfe Strebel, Jose Miklovick, 
Juan Abraham, Jose Schemi3ser, Juan Rifsko, Moaio Janisikek, Joseph Kopza, 
Juan Komarizin, Jose Steiner, Wenzel Schimek, Carl Koristek, Anton Rusel- 
huba, Humuch Burga, Josef Fidler, Ferdinand Bernam, Jose Soasihet, Juan 
Tillioly, Jose Oatterte, Jose Snuts, Jose Molier, Jofs Rots, Jose Maria Borell, 
Alejandro Almidu, Francisco Slama, Eduardo Langer, Stanislao Szeredinzy, 
Julio Rauch, Francisco Zach, Augusto Langenman, Francisco Turner, Leon V. 
Vorea, Jose Gamirosei, Paulo Palue, Francisco Hlumisei, Vincenzia Dreblich, 
Francisco Urban, Antonio Paulich, Antonio Krans, Vincenzia Glos, Antonio 
Dosranea, Jose Kobre, Miguel Losei, Jacobo Flux, Matias Gafsner, Jose Cami- 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 233 

davo, Wenzl Trief, Francisco Geppert, Paulo Wancho, Venxl Hersehmam, 
Francisco Tabik, Federico Bartha, Hose Renner, Bartolome Mialea, Francisco 
Neulinger, Miguel Zupro, Macsimilan Cservenka, Francisco Horvalh, Matias 
Baumearmer, Juan Duhzek, Francisco Szabo, Juan Berger, Antonio Pehgar. 
Camp at Camargo, June 17, 1866. 



A certified copy 



SOSTENES ROCHA. 
Camargo, June, 17 1866. 
F. C. DORIA, Secretary. 



[Enclosure No. 16.] 
Agreement for the surrender of Mat amor as. 

In the heroic city of Matamoras, on this twenty-second day of June, one 
thousand eight hundred and sixty-six, at a meeting of citizen General D. Thomas 
Mejia and a commission of the people, consisting of Senors D. Augustin Men- 
cheaca, D. Juan Prado, and D. Antonio de la Garza Chapa, of the first part, 
and citizen General D. Juan de la Garza, acting under the authority and in ac- 
cordance with the instructions of the citizen governor and military commandante 
of Tamaupilas, General Jose M. J. Carvajal, for the purpose of treating for the 
surrender of the plaza, after the usual formalities, agreed upon the terms con- 
tained in the following articles : 

Article 1. General Mejia is to deliver up the plaza of Matamoras within 
forty-eight hours to the citizen General Juan de la Garza, commanding the 
division operating against Matamoras. 

Art. 2. The reception of the plaza will be according to the usual formalities, 
including the forces and armament of the plaza. 

Art. 3. General Mejia shall be permitted to withdraw with the troops of his 
division unmolested by the road to Bagdad, with two rounds of ammunition. 

Art. 4. The lives, property, and interests of the citizens are guaranteed, and 
they shall not be molested for their previous political conduct or opinions. 

Art. 5. The government of the State reserves the right to investigate the 
conduct of those who have taken the more prominent part against it, for the 
satisfaction of public justice. 

For the enforcement and carrying out of the foregoing agreement, we hereby 
sign in triplicate. 

THOMAS MEJIA. 

JUAN PRADO. 

ANTONIO DE LA GARZA CHAPA. 

ARGOSTIN MENCHACA. 

JUAN JOSE DE LA GARZA. 

Ratified at general headquarters, Ranchito, June 23, 1866 — three o'clock a.m. 

CARVAJAL. 



[Enclosure No. 17.] 



The general of division Jose Maria J. Carvajal, governor and military com- 
mandant of the State of Tamaulipas, to its inhabitants: 

Fellow Citizens : The city of Matamoras is free from the oppression im- 
posed on it by the force of the invader, and republican rule is once more estab- 
lished therein. The enemy, convinced that he had not the support of the public, 
has delivered the plaza into our hands. This success is the prelude to the com- 



234 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

plete triumph of the national independence on this frontier, and will in due time 
lead to carrying the war into the interior of the republic for the defence of our 
brothers. 

To this end all patriots would contribute. The country requires sacrifices 
from her sons. All good Mexicans, though they may have been divided by dis- 
sensions and revolutions, can meet under the national banner. 

Citizens, I solicit your concurrence. My chief desire is to sustain the cause 
of independence, receiving all of its faithful defenders, without distinction of 
party, that we may show ourselves worthy of liberty, that we may maintain 
unity, and that previous dissensions may be forgotten. 

To this end I shall make war solely against the French and the traitors. 
The inoffensive people shall have the amplest guarantees, and my firm deter- 
mination is to respect all persons and property in conformity to the law of nations. 
Confident that my patriotic intentions are appreciated, I expect the aid of the 
people, that a complete triumph may be attained. The support of the people 
will be all-sufficient to enable me to combat the enemy, and confident in that 
support, I shall not hesitate in making the greatest sacrifices. 

JOSE M. J. CARVAJAL. 

Headquarters at Ranchito, June 23,. 1866. 



[Enclosure No 18.] 
PROCLAMATION OF GENERAL GARZA. 

The citizen Juan Jose de la Garza, chief of the first division of Tamaulipas, 
and provisional commandant of the city, to its inhabitants : 

Fellow-Citizens : My taking military command of the city has been for 
the purpose of protecting the citizens in their life and property. Exemplary 
punishment will follow any disorder, without distinction of person, for it is not 
private individuals, but the competent authorities, that are the judges of the 
proper course of procedure. 

All enjoy the guarantees which the law allows, and in no way shall these be 
violated. Far from this, I shall endeavor to re-establish confidence, and the 
efforts of all good Mexicans should be directed to the same end, and the salva- 
tion of our independence. Without the first the second is impossible. Mexicans, 
the epoch of our regeneration begins ; union under the banner of Fidalgo, war 
upon the French and traitors, the triumphs of our independence and nationality, 
are the ends which we should have in view. 

The frontier at all times has been the constant defender of liberty. Her sons 
gained the glorious battle of Santa Gertrudis ; a wide field is open to us to fight 
for our nation's cause ; patriotic Mexicans will not recede from their undertaking. 
To participate in the glories and dangers is the highest wish of your companion 
and friend, 

JUAN J. DE LA GARZA. 



No. 81. 

Mr. Seward to Senor Rotnero. 

Department of State, 

Washington, August 8, 1866. 
Sir : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of 
the 1st instant, containing an interesting account of the military operations in 



CONDITION OP AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 



235 



Mexico from the beginning of April to the end of June of this year, for which 
be pleased to accept my thanks. 

I avail myself of this occasion to renew to you the assurances of my most 
distinguished consideration. 

WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 

Seiior Don Matias Romero, Sfc, Sfc., tye. 



No. 82. 

Senor Romero to Mr. Seward. 

[Translation.] 

Mexican Legation in the United States of America, 

Washington, November 27, 1866. 
Mr. Secretary : I have the honor to transmit to you, for the information of 
the government of the United States, the documents mentioned in the annexed 
index, mostly taken from the official paper of the government of the Mexican 
republic, and containing chiefly official reports of military operations in the 
northern military division of the Mexican republic, from June to September of 
the present year. 

I avail myself of this favorable occasion to repeat to you, Mr. Secretary, the 
assurances of my most distinguished consideration. 

M. ROMERO. 
Hon. William H. Seward, fyc, fyc, fyc. 



Index of documents sent by the Mexican legation in Washington to the Depart- 
ment of State of the United States, with the note of this date, relating to the 
military operations of the northern army of the Mexican republic from June 
to September , 1866. 



No. 


Date. 




1866. 


1 


June 29 


2 


June 25 


3 


June 29 


4 


Aug. 4 


5 
6 

7 


Aug. 7 
Aug. 26 
Aug. 12 


8 
9 


Aug. 1 3 
Sept. 12 


10 


Aug. 13 


11 


Oct. 2 


12 
13 


Aug. 12 
Oct. 2 


U 


Aug. 13 



Contents. 



Official report of General Escobedo to the minister of war, in relation to the 
capitulation of Matamoras made between General Carvajal and Tomas 
Mejia. 

Opinion of the quartermaster general of the army of the north on said ca- 
pitulation. 

Text of the capitulation. 

The minister of war to General Escobedo, informing him that the govern- 
ment disapproves of the capitulation agreed upon between General Car- 
vajal and Don Tomas Mejia, and ordering General Carvajal to be tried 
by court-martial. 

The appointment of General Tapia as governor of the State of Tamaulipas. 

General Tapia to the minister of war, accepting the office. 

An act drawn up in Matamoras rejecting General Carvajal as governor and 
making Colonel Canales governor for the time being. 

Proclamation of Colonel Canales. 

The minister of war informs General Tapia that the government disapproves 
of the events that occurred in Matamoras on the 12th. 

Colonel Canales to the minister of relations, communicating to him all that 
happened in Matamoras on the day of the 12th. 

Reply of the minister of relations to the preceding. 

Colonel Canales communicates the events of the 12th to the minister of war. 

The minister of war's reply to Colonel Canales's note. 

Colonel Canales communicates the capitulation of Tampico to the minister 
of war. 



236 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

Index of documents sent by the Mexican legation, fyv. — Continued. 



No. 


Date. 


Contents. 


« 


1866. 




15 


Aug. 


13 


Text of the capitulation. 


16 


Oct. 


o 


The minister of war informs the governor of Tamaulipas that the capitula- 
tion is approved, with certain restrictions. 


17 


Aug. 


22 


Tampico correspondence, giving details of the political situation of that 

port. 
Official report of General Arce on the occupation of the city of Nazas, in 


18 


Aug. 


8 








the State of Durango. 


19 


Aug. 


16 


Reply of the minister of war to the above despatch. 


20 


Aug. 


5 


Official report of General Escobedo to the minister of war on the occupa- 
tion of the cities of Monterey and Saltillo by the forces under his command. 


21 


Aug. 


28 


The minister of war's reply to the above despatch. 


22 


Aug. 


8 


General Escobedo's proclamation. 


23 


.Aug. 


8 


Official report of General Viezca on the occupation of the city of Saltillo, 
the capital of the State of Coahuila. 


24 


Aug. 


21 


Reply of the minister of war. 


25 


Aug. 


8 


Letter of General Viesca to the President of the republic, on the submission 
of the traitors Quiroga and Campos. 



IGNO. MARISCAL, 



"Washington, November 27, 1866. 



[Enclosure No. 1.] 
MEXICAN REPUBLIC — NORTHERN ARMY CORPS. 

By the enclosed documents you will hear of the capitulation of the traitor 
Tomas Mejia to General Juan Jose de la Garza, and the terms of the same, to- 
gether with the remarks of the quartermaster general of the army under my 
command on that subject. 

When I reached this place, citizen minister, I could have annulled the stip- 
ulations between the traitor Mejia and General Garza, as the latter had no power 
to negotiate with a traitor who had done so much harm to the nation ; but I 
wanted to confine myself to the chief duty of making war on the enemies of my 
country, and for that reason I wrote to the governor general that I was dis- 
pleased with the act, for General Garza and Carvajal came from abroad to 
Mexico, and had no right to let Mejia off, helping him away and securing him 
from danger j therefore I protest, in the name of the army of the north and of 
the supreme government, against the offence. 

If General Garza and Carvajal had not contributed to Mejia's evasion, he 
might have got away alone, without a soldier, for I was marching upon the 
town ; now he can go on with the war, and the blood of our soldiers, shed on 
the battle-field in defence of their country, will be sterile in its results. In fine, 
citizen minister, when the traitor Mejia was in a bad fix, after the glorious vic- 
tory of Santa Gertrudis, two Mexican generals, living in the United States of 
the north, went over into Mexico and assisted him to get away. Let me call 
your particular attention to this fact, and ask you to make it known to the 
President of the republic that he may decide upon it. 

Independence and liberty ! Port of Matamoras, June 29, 1866. 

M. ESCOBEDO 

The Minister of War and Marine 

of the Mexican republic, (toherever he may be.) 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 237 

["Enclosure No. 2. ] 
MEXICAN REPUBLIC, ARMY CORPS OF THE NORTH — GENERAL-IN-CHIEF. 

General Santiago Tapia, quartermaster of the army of the north, reports to 
me on the 25th as follows : 

"Eemarks on the terms of capitulation between General Juan Jose - de la* 
Garza and the traitor Mejia, addressed by the quartermaster of the army of the 
north to the general-in-chief of the same: 

" Citizen General : The undersigned, believing it to be of great importance 
for the political future of the country— the capitulation made by the traitor 
Mejia to General Juan J. de la Garza has reflected upon it seriously — and taking 
it in a military point of view as well as political, patriotic, and humanitarian, 
expresses his opinion, supported by the justice and testimony of his own con- 
science, regretting that his limited capacity does not allow him to do full justice 
to the subject. 

" The citizen General Garza, in communicating with the enemy, did not 
act according to the precepts of military law, for he was in a foreign country 
without forces to threaten Matamoras, and was" in no condition where the laws 
of war permit a capitulation like this which we are discussing. Moreover, as 
your army was near the before-mentioned place and had just gained a victory, 
and was on the way with ample elements to destroy the enemy that garrisoned 
Matamoras ; and as the affair of Santa Gertrudis had caused a panic, and the 
enemy was far from aid, among hostile people,, and did not even trust their 
officers and chiefs, it was General Garza's duty to let you decide upon the pro- 
posals made by the traitor Mejia. 

" It is certain the place could have been occupied without conditions, for I am 
sure you would not have compromised with the traitors, but would have executed 
our laws upon them. 

" Considering these circumstances, the citizen General Garcia ought not to have 
interfered, but should have delivered the enemy up to the chiefs who are sus- 
taining the rights of their country by force of arms. Now, taking into consid- 
eration the power citizen General Garcia was supposed to have to act in the 
manner he did, it may be observed he forgot in a lamentable manner that Gen- 
eral Car vajal, being abroad, had no rights of any kind in the political or military 
affairs of our country, and therefore could not legally accept any obligation, or 
assent to any act that did not benefit the country. 

" If those citizens had wanted to do a positive service to the country, they 
might have collected what forces they could around Matamoras, and annoyed the 
enemy, even at a distance, and prevented his escape by land. But instead of 
that, General Garza allowed Mejia to triumph unexpectedly by getting off with 
his troops, arms and ammunition ; and so the traitor escaped, and will probably 
go to Maximilian and make him believe it was by strategy he got away, instead 
of by an error of General Garza and his aids. 

" In this case positive advantages were sacrificed for the pleasure of holding 
Matamoras a few days, greatly to the national injury ■ and Garza violated the 
laws of war by granting honors to traitors, that should only be granted to loyal 
and worthy enemies. I will not analyze General Garza's conduct in hastening 
the capitulation mentioned, because I think him incapable of wishing to appro- 
priate to himself the honors of a victory gained by others, and where he was not 
even present ; but I regret his treatment of an enemy undeserving the rights of 
war. J & b 

" The political aspect of the capitulation contains ruinous principles, those of 
leaving criminals unpunished, when the laws of the country are strictly applica- 
ble to the traitorous offenders. 

" The pardon of Mejia will encourage traitors, and destroy all political morality 



238 CONDITION OP AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

and hereafter any one may trample on the laws with impunity. If traitors are 
thus permitted to treat with loyal leaders, and all adherents of the empire are 
traitors, it establishes a fatal precedent that will do great injury to the country, 
leave traitors unpunished, and allow any one to scoff at national justice. 

"It is demonstrated that in wars like the one we are now waging, all nations 
adopt a fixed policy towards foreign enemies and invaders, and traitors who aid 
fhera ; and these principles or that policy have not been observed in Mejia's ca- 
pitulation, for he and his contemptible adherents ought to have forfeited their 
lives upon the scaffold. The enemies of our country attribute to the republican 
party all sorts of mean aspirations, and say we are acting to gratify exaggerated 
passion ; but does such lenity prove it ? Fortunately for the good name of 
Mexico, frequent acts of abnegation and endurance, united to the greatest un- 
selfishness and sacrifices of large fortunes as well as private interests, dear to 
the heart of man, have been offered as a holocaust by our brothers upon the al- 
tars of the country, and they refute all those truthless and undeserved asser- 
tions. 

" Reflecting on the strange way in which Matamoras was occupied, I have 
sometimes thought the authors of the plan believed they were acting humanely 
in compromising with the traitors and not shedding their blood, when they were 
in a very perilous position, not considering that Mejia with those resources in his 
hands now, with perfect liberty to use them by virtue of the treaty of capitula- 
lion, may cause the ruin of numberless families ; for his ferocious nature will 
impel him to dash upon the friends of those who spared his life, with more bit- 
terness than ever ; and in a few days he will begin operations in the direction 
of Tampico, on the forces of the patriotic Colonel Ascencion Gomez, and then 
the nation, the mothers, widows and orphans, who are mourning the loss of dear 
relatives and cherished friends, will curse those who are truly to blame for the 
calamities. 

" 1 have here given my opinion with the frankness that characterizes me, and 
in compliance with my duty on accepting the place of quartermaster of your 
army, to be useful to my country in every way, and to speak to you loyally 
whenever circumstances require it, and when my silence might compromise me 
before my fellow-citizens. Therefore it is my duty, as general of the republic 
and quartermaster of this army, to say to you that I deem the honor of the 
nation insulted if you do not protest against and make void the strange and per- 
nicious capitulation made by General Garza and others, since it benefited Mejia 
and not Mexico, helping the traitors, and thus criminating themselves as aiders 
and abettors of treason, that threatens to overthrow our national independence. 

"To prevent the republic and other nations that regard us from supposing "as 
to be accomplices, through false prudence, of a crime that tarnishes the honor of 
the country, violates the laws and encourages our enemies, forgetting or disre- 
garding the respect due to the supreme authority, we ought, with all the energy 
of reason, justice, and right, protest, as I recommended you, against the said 
capitulation. Notwithstanding the reasons I have given, on examining them, I 
am sure you will act as your political conscience dictates, directed by the re- 
sponsibility that hangs over you as general-in-chief of an army corps in the field, 
and in accordance with the general ordinances of that army. 

" Independence and liberty ! Matamoras, June 25, 1866. 

"SANTIAGO TAPIA." 

This I communicate to you for your information and communication to the 
citizen President of the republic. 

Independence and liberty! Port of Matamoras, June 29, 1866. 

M. ESCOBEDG. 
The Minister of War and Marine 

of the Mexican Republic, (wherever he may be.) 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 239 

[Enclosure No. 3. ] 
MBXICAN REPUBLIC — NORTHERN ARMY CORPS — SEAL. 

In the heroic city of Matamoras, on June 22, 1866, appeared General Don 
Tomas Mejia, on the one part, and the city commissioners, Messrs. Augustin 
Menchaca, Juan Prado and Antonio de la Garza Chapa, and on the other, 
General Juan Josd de la Garza, authorized by the governor of Tamaulipas, 
General Jose M. J. Carvajal, to treat about the surrender of the town, under 
certain conditions, who agreed upon the basis contained in the following articles : 

Article 1. General Mejia delivers the town of Matamoras, within forty-eight 
hours, to General Juan Jose de la Garza, chief of the Tamaulipas division, now 
operating on Matamoras. 

Article 2. The reception of the town will be in accordance with the usual 
formalities, and in respect to the condition of the forces, armament, &c. 

Article 3. General Mejia is allowed to withdraw the rest of his division, 
with arms and two rounds for each man, on the Bagdad road, without molesta- 
tion by the liberal forces. 

Article 4. The inhabitants shall be guaranteed in their lives, property, and 
general interests, without prosecution, directly or indirectly, or molestation for 
former political opinions or conduct. 

Article 5. The State government reserves the right of trying the principal 
persons whose conduct needs investigation for public vindication. 

And as proof, and for subsequent effect, the present is signed in duplicate. 

THOMAS MEJIA. 
JUAN PRADO. 
AUGUSTIN MENCHACA. 
ANTONIO DE LA GARZA CHAPA. 
JUAN JOSE DE LA GARZA. 

I ratify the above. 

CARVAJAL. 
Headquarters at Ranchito, June 23, 1866 — 3 a. m. 

A certified copy of the original. 

EMILIO VELASCO, Secretary. 
Ranchito, June 23, 1866. 

I certify to this copy. 

F. C. DOR1A, Secretary. 
Matamoras, June 29, 1866. 



[Enclosure No. 4.] 
DEPARTMENT OF STATE OFFICE OF WAR AND MARINE — SECTION FIRST. 

With this date, I say to the citizen general of division, Jose M. J. Caravajal, 
governor and military commander of the State of Tamaulipas, as follows : 

" In a communication from the citizen general-in-chief of the northern army 
corps, dated at Matamoras the 29th June, to which is annexed a copy of the 
capitulation made by you, through your commissioner, Juan Jose de la Garza, 
with Tomas Mejia, chief of the garrison of that town, the citizen President of 
the republic has learned that when the enemy was routed at Santa Gertrudis, 
and all alive were taken prisoners, leaving their artillery in our hands, with the 
arms, ammunition, and a quantity of goods, to the terror of the small garrison 
of Matamoras, on which the victorious forces were marching, you, just arrived 
in Tamaulipas from the United States, instead of collecting troops to prevent 
the escape of the traitors, entered into negotiations with them and helped them 



240 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

to escape with the honors of war, and giving them guarantees that only the 
supreme government could grant. 

"The citizen President cannot understand the reason you had for acting in 
that manner, making a treaty with the enemy when you had no forces to compel 
him to it, and General Escobedo was advancing on Matamoras by forced marches. 
Therefore it has been determined to decree as follows : 

"First. The capitulation made by you on the 22d of June, through your 
commissioner, Juan Jose de la Garza, with Don Tomas Mejia, chief of the Mata- 
moras garrison, is hereby declared null and of no force, because those who made 
it on the part of the republican government had not the proper authority. 

" Second. Therefore, both you and Juan Jose de la Garza, who are respon- 
sible for the act, shall be subject to trial, you answering for the capitulation, and 
Juan Jose de la Garza, in part for same, and for other misconduct during this 
war, which I communicate to you by order of the citizen President for your in- 
formation, and that you may issue the necessary orders for the execution of the 
above decrees " 

I transcribe this to you, for your information, in reply to your note of the 29th 
June, enclosing the opinion of the quartermaster general of the army corps on the 
subject. 

Independence and liberty ! Chihuahua, August 4, 1866. 

MEJIA. 

General Mariano Escobedo. 

Chief of the Northern Army Corps, (wherever lie may be.) 



[Enclosure No. 5.] 

DEPARTMENT OF FOREIGN RELATIONS AND GOVERNMENT — GOVERNMENT 
BRANCH, SECTION FIRST. 

Trusting to your patriotism, and as a reward for your services, the citizen 
President of the republic has been pleased to appoint you governor of the State 
of Tamaulipas. I send you instructions in another paper, ordering you to repair 
to that territory without delay, to begin the duties of your office. I enclose this 
despatch to citizen General Jose M. de J. Carvajal, former governor of that State, 
for his instruction. 

Independence and liberty! Chihuahua, August 7, 1S66. 

LEBDO DE TEJADA. 

Citizen General Santiago Tapia, 

Governor of the State of Tamaulipas. 



[Enclosure No. 6.] 
MEXICAN REPUBLIC — NATIONAL ARMY — GENERAL OF BRIGADE. 

Citizen Minister : I learn with pleasure from your note of the 7th instant 
of the appointment of myself as governor of the State of Tamaulipas, by the 
chief magistrate of the republic. 

I accept the office, but I must say that I do it because the State is in trouble 
in every branch of its administration, physical, moral, political, and military. 

Be pleased to express my thanks to the President for the confidence he has 
shown for me in giving me the office. 

Liberty and independence! Monterey, August 26, 1866. 

SANTIAGO TAPIA. 

The Citizen Minister of Relations and Government, 

Chihuahua. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO 241 

[Enclosure No. 7.] 
An act draton up by the garrison of this totvn. 

In the town of Matamoras de Tamaulipas, on the 12th of August, 1866, its 
garrison assembled, composed of the following brigades and corps : Hinojosa 
brigade, first cavalry corps, first Tamaulipas battalion, second Tamaulipas 
battalion, Bravo shooters, Canales brigade, government escort, supreme power 
corps, Tamaulipas guides, mountain riflemen, Oamargo squadron, Guerrero 
squadron, exploring corps, loyal Tamaulipans, Burgos loyals, Vera rangers, 
reform battalion, artillery battalion, Bravo lancers, and exploring volunteers. 

Considering that citizen Jose Maria Jesus Carvajal, acting governor and mili- 
tary commander of the State, is not fit to govern it under present circumstances, 
because he does not pay the garrison, and makes no effort to do so ; 

Considering that the money contributed by the city has been uselessly wasted, 
to the neglect of the soldiers' wants ; 

Considering that citizen Carvajal's political progress has been feeble and in- 
decisive, when in these times it should be strong and resolute ; 

Considering the small influence citizen Carvajal has over the garrison and the 
inhabitants of this city, he should not remain in power; 

Considering that if violent and energetic means are not resorted to, greater 
evils may result ; 

Considering, finally, it is the duty of this garrison to stop this ruinous impo- 
sition, the chiefs, officers, and soldiers of said garrison have resolved : 

1. To reject and depose citizen Jose M. J. Carvajal as governor and military 
commander of the State of Tamaulipas ; 2. To make Colonel Servando Canales 
governor and military commander of the State, for his services to the national 
cause, and from the confidence we have in him; 3. That citizen Benito Juarez, 
constitutional President of the Mexican republic, be informed of this guberna- 
torial change in the State, and the reasons for it, while we declare our fidelity 
to all decrees and orders emanating from the supreme government of the nation ; 
4. That Colonel Servando Canales be informed of these resolutions, that he may 
assume the duties of said office in this State. 

PEDRO HINOJOSA. 

General of the First Brigade. 

The other signatures follow. 



[Enclosure No. 8.] 

SERVANDO CANALES, CAVALRY COLONEL IN THE REPUBLICAN ARMY, GOVERNOR 
^AND MILITARY COMMANDER OF THE STATE OF TAMAULIPAS. 

Fellow-citizens : Yesterday you witnessed a military movement that de- 
posed General Jose M. J. Carvajal from the office of civil and military governor 
of the State. You know the reasons of that act : a general dissatisfaction pre- 
vailed among the people, and there was no other remedy. Fortunately there 
was no blood shed, and not a gun fired. It was the best way to express the 
will of the garrison. 

By your vote, and the will of my companions in arms, I am now doing the 
duty as civil and military governor of the State, which office I have accepted in 
pure gratitude to your confidence, and to prevent a headless government from 
going to destruction. 

I am aware of the dangers of the present crisis, and if I dare to brave them, 
it is with purest intentions to see my country free and happy. 

16 MEX. 



242 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

Eellow citizens : my government hoists the standard of independence and 
liberty, symbolized by the most holy principles of union and fraternity. I 
solicit and expect the aid of all the citizens of this State. I will hear the counsel 
of all, as humanity is apt to err from weakness. My government shall be the 
people's government. Candor and good faith shall be my guide; we will have 
no disputes, no personal differences, no envies. TVe will lay our animosities 
aside, sacrifice our hate on the country's altar; let no sentiments tind a place in 
your hearts but the desire for the independence and liberty of Mexico. Lung 
lite to the republic and libertv ! 

SEKYAXDO CAXALES. 

Matamoras, August 13, 1S66. 



[Enclosure Xo. 9.] 

DEPARTMENT OF HOME AFFAIRS, OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY OF FOREIGN AND 
HOME AFFAIRS — SECTION FIRST. 

The citizen President of the republic has heard with regret of the act 
committed in the city of Alatamoras, on the 12th of August last, by the forces 
under command of General Pedro Hinojosa and Colonel Servando Canales, 
with a view that the political and military command of the State of Tamau- 
lipas should devolve on the second named officer, who accepted it in a procla- 
mation issued on the 13th, thereby disavowing General J. M. de J. Carvajal, 
the incumbent at the time. Even had there been just motives for the dismissal 
of General Carvajal, it was only the supreme government that had the right to 
order his dismissal ; and it had already so determined, on the 1th of said month, 
in order that General Carvajal might answer the charges against him for the 
capitulation he granted to Don Tomas Mejia. 

You were then appointed as governor and military commandant to. supersede 
General Carvajal. But until you superseded him, and until this determination 
of the government came to Lhe knowledge of General Carvajal's subordinates, 
they were bound to respect his authority. This error cannot, however, be ex- 
cused, because of the third resolution of the act above mentioned, where it is 
provided to refer it to the citizen President, under protest, and abide by his de- 
termination. Such means having been used previously, in other like movements, 
does not deprive them of their true character of revolt, contrary to the most 
binding duties imposed by law and military discipline. Xo hope for the salva- 
tion of the country can be entertained, if a stop is not put to military revolts, 
which have so far been the cause of the misfortunes of the republic. The na- 
tion ha? been struggling for the last nine years against parties that revolted 
against tne constitution and the laws, which, after having been defeated, went 
as far as treason itself, by calling foreigners to their aid. The people are strug- 
gling to establish forever respect for national law, and the principles that au- 
thority should not be derived through violence, by force of arms, but arise from 
the laws consented to by the free will and votes of the citizens ; that law be 
superior to force ; that public power be superior to military mutinies ; and that 
arms be in the hands of those citizens who, instead of disregarding the laws 
and dismissing public officers, will but serve their country by true allegiance to 
the constituted authorities, and strict obedience to the laws. Disapproving, as 
the citizen President does disapprove, the military movement at Matamoras, and 
disavowing all the acts arising therefrom, he entreats you that, beside all the 
steps you may have taken as governor and military commander of the State of 
Tamaulipas, you should provide the best means for the submission of those 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 243 

forces, and direct General Hinojosa and Colonel Canales to proceed to the seat 
of the supreme government, to answer for their conduct. Independence and 
liberty ! Chihuahua, September 12, 1866. 

LERDO DE TEJADA. 
Secretary of Foreign and Home Affairs. 
General Santiago Tapia, 

Governor and Military Commandant 

of Hie State of Tamaulipas, Matamoras. 



[Enclosure No. 10.] 

DEPARTMENT OF FOREIGN RELATIONS AND GOVERNMENT — MEXICAN REPUB- 
LIC — GOVERNMENT OF THE STATE OF TAMAULIPAS. 

Citizen Minister: At two o'clock yesterday there was a political move in 
this city that resulted in the removal of General Jose M. J. Carvajal as gover- 
nor and military commander of the State, and it was so unanimous and orderly 
that not one gun was fired, and the city soon subsided into its usual quiet. 

I was immediately chosen by popular will to replace Carvajal, and I have 
taken charge of both offices in obedience to public opinion, and to prevent 
anarchy. 

You will learn the causes and reasons for the move from the papers I send you. 

I have the honor to inform you of this, and request you will make it known 
to the citizen President, to whom, as well as to you, I make my humble sub- 
mission. 

Liberty and independence ! Matamoras, August 13, 1866. 

SERVAXDO CAXALES. 

The Minister of Relations and Government, Chihuahua. 



[Enclosure No. 11.] 
OFFICE OF GOVERNMENT SECTION FIRST. 

Your despatch of the 13th of August has reached the President. You tell of 
the move in Matamoras making you governor in place of Jose M. de J. Carvajal. 

On the 7th of August General Santiago Tapia was made governor and mili- 
tary commander of your State. On the 12th of September I sent you a des- 
patch informiog you that the President disapproved of the terms of the Mata- 
moras surrender and annulled all the articles, ordering Pedro Hinojosa and you 
to present yourselves to the supreme government to answer for your conduct. 
This despatch and the commission of General Tapia were published in the 
official paper of the 14th of September, of which I send you a copy. 

The President requests me to say to you to obey the orders of Tapia, and to 
present yourself at headquarters immediately. 

Independence and liberty! Chihuahua, October 2, 1S66. 

LERDO DE TEJADA 

Colonel Servando Canales, Matamoras. 



[Enclosure No. 12.] 

DEPARTMENT OF STATE, OFFICE OF WAR AND MARINE — MEXICAN REPUBLIC- 
GOVERNMENT OF THE STATE OF TAMAULIPAS. 

Citizen Minister: I have the honor to inform you that on yesterday, at two 
o'clock in the afternoon, a political move occurred in this place, the sole design 



244 CONDITION OP AFFAIRS IN MEXICO, 

of which was to overthrow the administration of General J. M. J. Carvajal, for 
reasons stated in the papers accompanying this note. Only a change of persons 
has taken place. Carvajal was deposed from the place of civil and military 
governor of the State, and I have assumed those offices in accordance with the 
will of the people and the garrison, so as not to leave the government without 
a head to prevent anarchy and confusion, that would be so disastrous at a time 
like this. 

Consequently, the undersigned and all the forces in the town are at the orders 
of citizen Benito Juarez, the worthy President of the republic, and are entirely 
disposed to continue fighting in defence of the sacred rights of independence 
and liberty. Be pleased, citizen minister, to communicate this note to the citizen 
President of the republic, and accept the best expressions of my respect and 
esteem. 

Independence and liberty! Matamoras, August 13, 1866. 

SERVANDO CANALES. 

The Minister of War and Marine, 

(wherever he may be.) 



[Enclosure No. 13.] 
DEPARTMENT OF STATE, OFFICE OF WAR AND MARINE — SECTION FIRST. 

From your despatch of the 13th of August the citizen President of the republic 
has heard of the move that occurred in your city on the 12th, when the garrison 
disavowed General Jose M. J. Carvajal as governor and military commander of 
the State and appointed you in his place till the decision of the supreme govern- 
ment, which offices you say you accept to prevent fatal consequences that other- 
wise might take place. 

Before receiving your communication, when the President heard of the capit- 
ulation between Generals Carvajal and Thomas Mejia, General Santiago Tapia 
was made military governor of the State to prevent any evil results ; but the 
supreme magistrate of the nation disapproves of the removal and substitution by 
armed force, and therefore orders were sent to General Tapia to summon you 
and General Hinojosa to appear before the government to answer for their 
conduct. When that is done your declarations will be duly considered. 

Independence and liberty ! Chihuahua, October 2, 1866. 

MEJIA. 

Colonel Servando Canales, 

In Matamoras, or elsewhere. 



[Enclosure No. 14.] 
MEXICAN REPUBLIC — GOVERNMENT OF THE STATE OF TAMAULIPAS. 

Citizen Minister : Colonel Gomez, chief of the brigade of that name, reports 
from Tampico on the 8th instant as follows : 

"You will learn from the accompanying paper that finally, this day at three 
o'clock in the afternoon, this town fell into our hands, and consequently all 
the French and traitors that held it so long are expelled from the territory. 
On informing you of that pleasant event, I have the satisfaction of congratulating 
you, and of informing you that as soon as it can be done a circumstantial report 
of all that happened during the siege will be made out, with a list of all that 
was taken from the enemy, in accordance with the agreement entered into between 
General Pavon and the French chiefs." 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 245 

I am pleased to send this to your department for the information of the Pre- 
sident of the republic, whom 1 congratulate on the spleudid victory over the 
French and traitors that held the important town of Tampico. 

Independence and liberty! The heroic town of Matamoras, August 13, 1866. 

SERVANDO CANALES. 
The Minister of War and Marine, 

(wherever he may be.) 



[Enclosure No. 15.] 

Military convention signed by General Desiderio Pavon, commander of the 
Mexican liberal forces operating on Tampico, S. Revaud, thief of the French 
naval forces, and Mr. Langlois, chief of the French forces in Tampico. 

Article 1. The French troops now in the Casemate and Octavo forts shall 
appear on the wharf to-morrow, the 8th, between two and three o'clock of the 
afternoon, with their arms, their baggage, and their flag displayed, the band play- 
ing a march, with full cartridge-boxes for each man, to embark for leaving. 

Art. 2 An armistice shall be religiously observed by both belligerents from 
now till the French gunboats that transport the troops shall have crossed the bar 
of the port. 

Art. 3. French subjects residing in Tampico shall have full protection, and 
Consul Charles de St. Charles, having charge of the French and Belgian con- 
sulates, shall continue to exercise his duties as heretofore with all due protection. 
Made in duplicate at Tampico, on the 7th of August, 1866. 

DESIDERIO PAVON. 
S. REVAUD. 
S. LANGLOIS. 



[Enclosure No. 16.] 
DEPARTMENT OF STATE — OFFICE OF WAR AND MARINE — SECTION FIRST. 

From your despatch of the 18th of August, and the accompanying papers, 
the citizen President of the republic has learned with pleasure that on the 8th 
of this month the important town of Tampico was entirely occupied by the 
republican forces, and the French garrison that held it left, in accordance with 
a convention between General Desiderio Pavon and its commanders ; and the 
chief magistrate agreeing that circumstances made it necessary to draw up a 
treaty allowing the enemy to evacuate the place with their arms, baggage, &c, 
according to articles 1 and 2, has been pleased to ratify it ; but he cannot and 
does not approve of article 3, because the consuls that favored intervention and 
desired the republic cannot be recognized as consuls, or have any official char- 
acter ; yet, like other foreign subjects, they are entitled to the protection that is 
allowed by the law of nations and the laws of the republic. 

I communicate the above to you in reply to your despatch, and for con- 
sequent action. 

Independence and liberty ! Chihuahua, October 2, 1866. 

MEJIA. 

The Military Commander of the State of Tamaulipas, 

in Matamoras, (or wherever he may be.) 



246 • CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

[Enclosure No. 17. ] 

Tampico, August 22, 1866. 

My Dear Sir : Before this reaches your hands your readers will doubtless be 
in possession of the intelligence of the capture of this important post by the 
constitutional forces ; but some further details, from an eye-witness of what has 
occurred here, may not prove uninteresting. 

On the morning of the 1st instant a detachment of the constitutional forces 
of this State, under the command of Colonel Manuel Cuesta, suddenly appeared 
before Fort Iturbide, and assaulted it with the cry of " Viva la libertad ! " 
Upon this the entire Mexican force, which had been placed in the fort as garri- 
son, went over in a body to the liberals, and the fort and all its supplies fell into 
the possession of Colonel Cuesta. Eleven Frenchmen, including the command- 
ant of the fort, were killed in the melee. 

The State troops then rushed into the city and secured possession of Plaza 
Libertad and the custom-houses, and opened a brisk fire of musketry on the gun- 
boat Musquito, driving her from her moorings, but she finally escaped with the 
French collector of customs, and several Mexican rebels on board. The liberal 
forces then advanced to the Plaza de Armas, where they met the imperialists, 
and drove them to the forts Casa Mata and Octavo. 

On the following day the Huesteca troops, numbering some one thousand men 
of all arms, under the command of General Pavon, crossed over from Pueblo 
Viejo and effected a junction with the State troops. Hostile operations were 
continued until the 7th, the liberals not having sufficient powder to move as ef- 
fectively as they wished and as the numerical strength of their force would have 
permitted. Meanwhile the dwelling-houses of the town suffered severely from 
the merciless fire of the French forts, which being situated on elevated ground 
enabled them to aim at any house they wished to destroy. Notwithstanding 
this, however, they seemed to throw their fire indiscriminately through the city, 
killing men, women, and children, and causing the most wanton destruction of 
property. On the morning of the 7th two gunboats from Vera Cruz appeared 
in the river, cautiously approaching Fort Iturbide, and about three p. m. Casa 
Mata and the gunboats seemed to open a simultaneous fire upon the fort, which 
was continued until five p. m., when the gunboats reached the anchorage abreast 
the Plaza de Armas and hoisted a flag of truce, which was at once answered by 
the Mexican liberal commander. * 

The United States consul general and the Prussian and. Spanish consuls were 
then authorized to confer with the French senior naval officer, in the presence of 
the Mexican Colonel Gomez, and preliminary stipulations were entered into for 
the retirement of the French forces and the surrender of the forts remaining in 
their possession. A further interview then took place in Casa Mata, and at eleven 
p. m. the terms of capitulation with all the honors of war were signed. At three 
p. m. on the following day the last remnant of the French force in the State of 
Tamaulipas was embarked upon the gunboats, and the soil of the State was 
again free from the presence of the foreign invader. 

This town now bears the impress of the horrors of war. Houses more or 
less destroyed and injured by shot and shell, families mourning the loss of some 
of their number, and the traitors who have had imperial appointments trembling 
and in mortal dread of what is to be the result of their past misdeeds. The few 
French residents here are not molested, but they wear most elongated visages 
and whisper maledictions against the United States, to whose support of the 
liberals and opposition to the " empire " they attribute its rapid downfall. The 
liberal forces, since their occupation of the city, have behaved exceedingly well, 
and it is impossible to describe the feeling of relief and freedom that is expe- 
rienced by all classes at the termination of the reign of terror which we have 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 247 

experienced during the whole of the French occupation. Communication with 
the interior is again open, and there is now a chance to move freely after the 
confinement we have been suffering here for more than two years past. 

The political prefect, Don Toribio de la Torre, who had made himself so 
odious to his countrymen during the imperial occupation, and particularly in en- 
forcing the barbarous decree of Maximilian of the 3d of October last, was caught 
at an early hour on the morning of the 1st, and was summarily executed. Such 
has been his traitorous reward. 

Don Matildo Romero, who had been judge of the district during the Maxi- 
milian regime, and has played a conspicuous part in the imperial role, took refuge 
in the house of the United States consul general, where his family had already 
preceded him, and solicited the influence of Mr. Chase to save his life. This was, 
of course, cheerfully promised, and he was assured that the consul had authority 
from the ^military commanders to protect the lives and property of all who took 
refuge with him ; yet such was the fear and remorse of the unhappy man that, 
notwithstanding all the assurances that were proffered to him, he could not over- 
come his fright, and committed suicide by taking poison. His treason to his 
country thus found its punishment at his own hands. 

The conduct of the French at this place has been without excuse. After 
ruining the commerce of the place by their occupation, they have finished the 
work of destruction by bombarding the town, and inflicting wanton injury upon 
private property. They have also caused a great loss of life among those who were 
entirely non-combatants. Their civilization has proved itself infinitely worse 
than any the past record of Mexico has ever presented. 

Sefior Don Mattas Romero, 

Washington City, D. C. 



[Enclosure No. 18.] 
REPUBLICAN ARMY — HEADQUARTERS OF THE COMMANDING GENERAL— No. 2. 

Citizen Minister : I have the honor to inform you that this city was occu- 
pied to-day by our forces, driving out 100 traitors that held it, five of whom we 
killed, wounded 12, and took 59 prisoners, including two principal chiefs, who 
are d^igerously wounded. All the enemy's horses, arms, equipments, and am- 
munition were taken. 

Be pleased to make this known to the President, and accept for yourself the 
assurances of my consideration and obedience. 

Independence and liberty ! Nazas, August 8, 1866. 

FRANCISCO 0. ARCE. 

The Citizen Minister of War, at CJiihuahua. 



[Enclosure No. 19.] 
DEPARTMENT OF STATE, OFFICE OF WAR AND MARINE SECTION FIRST. 

By your despatch of the 8th instant, the President of the republic is pleased 
to learn that you have occupied Nazas, held by 100 traitors, five of which you 
killed, touk 12 wounded and 59 prisoners, among them the two chiefs, badly 
wounded. 

Independence and liberty ! Chihuahua, August J. 6, 1866. 

MEJIA. 

General Francisco Arce, at Nazas. 



248 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

[Enclosure No. 20.] 
MEXICAN REPUBLIC ARMY OF THE NORTH — GENERAL-IN-CHIEF. 

As I have already informed you, I set out from Matamoras, dividing my 
forces into three columns, and a ten days' rain made me go slow. Yet the 
enemy holding the place found I was coming, and evacuated it on the 26th of 
June, and marched towards Saltillo, which place Douay left, spiking his cannon, 
and taking all precautions to prevent the desertion of his men. Lieutenant 
Colonel Ruperto Martinez, with his New Leon rifles, and Cadereita Jimenez, 
with the explorers, occupied the deserted city the next day, and informed me of 
the fact, though they had done it without orders, and then continued on in pur- 
suit of the enemy. 

The French forces under Douay left Saltillo yesterday for Matahuela to meet 
Bazaine, who has 2,000 men with him, as we learn from intercepted correspond- 
ence. The French and traitors have been defeated so often in this part of the 
republic the troops are thoroughly demoralized. I will remain here only long 
enough to increase my forces and equip new ones, when I will open the cam- 
paign in the State of San Luis Potosi, unless I have different orders from the 
supreme government. Congratulate the President of the republic on the evac- 
uation of Monterey and Saltillo by the cowardly enemy on our approach. 

Independence and libertv ! Monterey, August 5, 1866. 

M. ESCOBEDO. 

The Minister of War and Marine 

of the Mexican Republic, in Chihuahua. 



[Enclosure No. 21.] 
DEPARTMENT OF STATE, OFFICE OF WAR AND MARINE, SECTION FIRST. 

By your despatch of the 5th instant, the President of the republic hears with 
pleasure that Monterey was evacuated by the enemy on the 26th, and occupied 
by our forces under Colonel Ruperto Martinez, and that General Douay had 
also evacuated Saltillo and marched towards Matahuela, to join some forces 
from San Luis, and so the city of Saltillo also fell into our hands. 

The occupation of these two places, the only ones held by the enemy in the 
States of New Leon and Coahuila, is of the greatest importance to us. tfi^hus 
the victory of Santa Gertrudis and the occupation of Matamoras free us from 
the invaders, and enable us to operate more effectually with the rest of the 
patriots. 

In regard to the military operations that you propose in the note I am now 
answering, separate instructions will be sent to you when convenient. 

Independence and liberty ! Chihuahua, August 28, 1866. 

MEJIA. 

General Mariano Escobedo, 

Chief of the Northern Army Corps, Monterey. 



[Enclosure No. 22.] 

General Mariano Escobedo, chief of the northern army corps, to the troops 

under his command: 

Soldiers : More than seven thousand French and traitors that occupied the 
States of New Leon, Coahuila, and Tamaulipas are there no longer. Those not 
completely whipped and routed, fled before the splendor of republican arms. 
The French General Douay directing military operations on the frontier, re- 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 249 

tired with his demoralized troops, without gaining one victory, and Marshal 
Bazaine, chief of the invading army, came to save his weary battalions from 
dispersion. 

The battle of St. Gertrude has altered the aspect of the military question 
sustained by the republic against its enemies ; the occupation of the important 
places of Matamoras, Monterey, and Saltillo is the legitimate consequence of 
that important day. 

Companions in arms : In the name of the citizen President Benito Juarez, 
I welcome you to the capital of New Leon, where your fellow-countrymen re- 
ceive you with open arms, and the ladies have crowns of laurel for your worthy 
brows. The northern frontier is now free, but our brothers inland, who have 
struggled so bravely against invaders, are yet suffering the yoke imposed upon 
them by foreign bayonets. Our duty is to aid them. We will rest awhile 
under arms ; then, fully provided with supplies for them, we will carry the w^r 
where it is necessary, wherever there are foreigners and traitors, enemies of the 
great Mexican republic. 

Independence and liberty! Monterey, August 8, 1866. 

MARIANO ESCOBEDO. 



[Enclosure No. 23.] 

MEXICAN REPUBLIC — GOVERNMENT AND MILITARY COMMANDANCY OF THE 
STATE OF COAHUILA DE ZARAGOZA. 

After the victory of Santa Gertrudis, where the convoy guard was routed — 
the capture of this place and the occupation of Matamoras — after the evacua- 
tion of Saltillo by the French and traitors — this place was occupied as soon as 
the enemy had left it. 

By this fortunate event the entire northern frontier is free from the invaders, 
and is now ready to march to the interior to overthrow the worm-eaten edifice 
called the empire. Colonel Zepeda, who took possession of Saltillo, was pre- 
vented from pursuing the enemy by his duties to regulate affairs around him. 
The next day Lieutenant Colonel Ruperto Martinez was sent out after the 
fugitives, and reports that a great number of deserters, French, Belgians, and 
traitors, are joining him every day. After equipping the second brigade of 
1,000 men, I prepared to march to the States of Durango and Zacatecas, where 
there is most excitement, and the people need a leader against the enemy. For 
this purpose I have sent the brigade commander citizen Jesus Gonzales Hen-era 
and Generals Auza and Arce, with full powers, to that section of the country. 

The reorganization of the districts and the equipment of troops has detained 
me here till now ; but I start for Saltillo to-morrow to confer with the general 
of the northern army about operations upon San Luis. 

I have the honor to communicate the above to you for the information of the 
President of the republic, whom I congratulate in the country's name, for the 
favorable turn of events in our favor. 

Independence and liberty! Parras, August 8, 1866. 

ANDRES S. VIEZCA. 

The Minister of War and Marine 

of the Republic, in Chihuahua. 



[Enclosure No. 24.] 
DEPARTMENT OF STATE, OFFICE OF WAR AND MARINE — SECTION FIRST. 

By your communication of the 8th, the citizen President of the republic is 
pleased to learn that Saltillo was evacuated by the enemy on the 4th, and 



250 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

immediately occupied by our forces ; also, that you had gone to that city to 
regulate affairs, and confer with the commander-in-chief of the northern army 
in regard to the continuation of the campaign. 

Independence and liberty ! Chihuahua, August 21, 1866. 

MEJIA. 
General Andres S. Viezc\, 

Governor and Military Commander of the*State 

of Coahuila de Zaragoza, in Saltillo. 



[Enclosure No. 25.] 

quiroga's proposal to submit. 

I 

We give below a letter of Viezca to the President, with annexed documents, 
on Quiroga's proposal to submit to the government, and deliver Campos up. 
Viesca's reply shows the enemy's situation, and that no commentaries are 
needed on Quiroga's infamous proposal. 

Parras, August 8, 1866. 

Respected Sir : I inform you officially, through the secretary of war, of 
the evacuation of Monterey and Saltillo by the French and traitors, and of our 
occupation of those important towns. The frontier now is free from the yoke 
the invaders sought to impose upon it, and everything induces us to hope their 
last hour is near. 

Campos and Quiroga wanted to join our forces when they saw there was no 
hope for them, and thus save their lives and fortunes. I send you Quiroga's 
first letter and my reply. He afterwards sent me a letter proposing to deliver 
Campos up, if we would let bin join us in our war against the French, and con- 
tinue at the head of his own forces. I told him I had not the authority to 
grant his request, and I did not believe it was my duty, even if I could. I 
send you copies of both documents. I hope my conduct in not treating with 
Quiroga and Campos will meet with your approbation. 

As ever, I remain your true friend and servant. 

A. S. VIEZCA. 

President Benito Juarez, Chihuahua. 



Saltillo, July 30, 1866. 

My Dear Friend : I wrote to General Escobedo to-day, giving my opinion 
of the situation, and offering to join him in efforts against the invaders who 
have sought to subjugate us. I hope Senor Escobedo will accept my offer ; but 
if he does not, I will do what I can to keep from being obliged to go to the in- 
terior to accept offers made me there; and for that reason I write this letter to 
you. If you consent to unite your forces with mine, please give me an official 
communication of the fact, addressed to the Aurora factory, where I will wait 
for it. 

This offer embraces the person and troops of my friend Maximo Campos, 
who entertains the same opinion and wish ; and I am resolved to follow his fate, 
whether his person and interests are protected or not. 
Your friend and servant, 

JULIAN QUIEOGA. 

Governor Andres S. Viezca. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 251 

Parras, August 4, 1866. 
Dear Sir : In answer to yours of the 30th, proposing to unite our forces to 
prevent another incursion of the frontier, I must say that, whatever General 
Escobedo may think, I believe the hard lessons we have had, and. the blood that 
has been shed by our countrymen in contests with a foreign enemy, ought to 
serve as warnings for us in future ; and I am sure the frontier can defend itself 
without its forces joining y^urs, that have fought for the odious project of inter- 
vention. Besides, it would be doing an injury to my conscience, and a violation 
of my duty, to accept your proposal, which is altogether inadmissible at this 

time. " 

My responsibility to the nation is great, and as a public officer I am bound by 
the law and public opinion. It may be well that you have determined to follow 
the fate of Maximo Campos ; it is natural and logical, no one will deny. 

Now, if you two have any feelings for the good of the country, you can place 
your troops at the disposal of the government, or the legitimate authorities of 
the republic, and accept, without conditions, the judgment of the law. 

After saying what I have, I think it entirely unnecessary to send a commis- 
sioner to confer with you. 

Your obedient servant, 

ANDRES S. VIEZCA. 

Don Julia.n Quiroga, Saltillo. 

[Letter omitted.] 

Paso de la Poiedad, July 29, 1866, 
To Messrs. Auza and Viezca : 

The bearer, Don Iguacio Soto, can certify to the truth of this. 

JULIAN QUIROGA. 



Parras, August 5, 1866. 
To Don Julian Quiroga : 

Your commissioner, Don Ignacio Soto, has conferred with me on the subject 
of your proposals to join me, under certain conditions, and I must say it is not 
in my power to accept your offers. 

J * A. S. VIEZCA. 

Parras, August 8, 1866. 

True copies : 

E. VIEZCA, Chief Officer. 



From No. 1 of the News Bulletin of Saltillo, 5th of this month, we make 
the following extracts : 

" General Escobedo arrived in Monterey the day before yesterday, and he is 
daily expected here with the main body of his troops. 

" RECENT events. 

" Campos and Quiroga, of the French party, were with him. We know they 
both received munitions of war from the French, and were encouraged to pro- 
nounce for Santa Anna, Gonzales Ortega, or any one else whe might serve as a 
torch for internal conflagration. Poor deluded people ! Worse than Napoleon 
or the basest of his agents. Why can't they see that the national cause will 
finally overcome all their machinations 1" 



252 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

No. 83. 

Mr. Seward to Senor Romero. 

Department of State, 

Washinsion, December 8, 1866. 
Sir : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication 
of the 27th ultimo, containing official reports of certain military opeiations in 
the northern military division of the Mexican republic, for which be pleased to 
accept my thanks. 

I avail myself of this opportunity to renew to you the assurances of my 
most distinguished consideration. 

WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 
Seiior Don M. Romero, fyc, fyc, Sfc. 



No. 3. 

MILITARY OPERATIONS OF THE WESTERN DIVISION. 
List of papers. 

84. Mr. Romero to Mr. Ssward, (with 5 enclosures) April 8, 1866. 

85. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero July 5, 1866. 

86. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward, (with 6 enclosures) June 14, 1866. 

87. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero July 7, 1866. 

88. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward, (with 1 enclosure) July 6, 1866. 

89. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero July 12, 1866. 

90. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward, (with 13 enclosures) November 25, 1866. 

91. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero December 8, 1866. 



No. 84. 

Senor Romero to Mr. Seward. 
[Translation.] 

Mexican Legation to the United States of America, 

Washington, April 8, 1866. 

Mr. Secretary : I have the honor to enclose you a copy of No. 11 of the 
official paper of the government of the Mexican republic, published on the 8th of 
May last, at the town of El Paso del Norte, containing a circxtlar of the gov- 
ernor and military commander of the State of Sonora, dated the 30th of De- 
cember last, reporting a victory gained the day before, by the forces of the re- 
public over a party of interventionists ; also, a communication from the said 
governor to the minister of war, containing the report of General Angel Mar- 
tinez on his Alamos expedition, in which he dispersed the force of the inter- 
ventionist Almada ; and lastly, the answer of the minister of war General 
Ignacio Mejia. 

I accept the opportunity to renew to you, Mr. Secretary, the assurances of 
my most distinguished consideration. 

M. ROMERO. 

Hon. William H. Seward, Sfc, Sfc., 8fc. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 253 

[Enclosure No. 1. — From No. II of the official paper of the constitutional government of 
the Mexican republic. Paso del Norte, March 8, 1866. — Translation. ] 

Circular from the government and military commandancy of tlie State of 

Sonora. 

" More than four hundred traitors, under Santiago Campillo, jr., and F. Bar- 
celo, attacked this place at one yesterday, and after one hour's contest, were 
completely routed and pursued for three leagues by the reserves of the brave 
commander, Juan G. Escalante. 

"The result of the battle was, two killed on our side, Jesus Maduena and 
Reyes Vega, of the first batallion, and four wounded, among whom was Surgeon 
Eugene S. Wakefield. The enemy lost thirty killed, eleven wounded, and 
fifty-one prisoners. We took one hundred muskets with ball cartridges, and 
twenty- odd saddled horses. Many of those forced to fill the enemy's ranks 
are deserting and coming to our quarters. 

" The conduct of our soldiers is worthy of the greatest eulogy. Both officers 
and soldiers behaved with the greatest gallantry ; they all did their duty, and 
all they ask is to be led where they can be most useful." 

I communicate this to you that you may make it known to the inhabitants of 
your district. Independence and liberty ! Matape, December 30, 1865. 

J. GARCIA MORALES. 

Thomas G. Pico, First Officer. 

The Military Commandant of the district of . 



[Enclosure No. 2.] 
GOVERNMENT AND MILITARY COMMANDANCY OF THE STATE OF SONORA. 

I have the honor to enclose you a copy of the official report and private 
letter received yesterday from General Angel Martinez, giving an account of 
his victory over the traitors in the district of Alamos. 

In reply to the general, I inform him that there are no other traitor bands 
in the State except those of Salvador Vazques and Refugio Canori, from two 
to three hundred men each — one in the district of Arizipe, the other in Magda- 
lena, both now quiet. I will soon communicate with the general, and recom- 
mence operations. 

Please communicate this to the President, and congratulate him for me on 
account of the glorious victories due to the valor of General Martinez. Inde- 
pendence and liberty ! Camp in Noria, February 1, 1866. 

J. GARCIA MORALES. 

D. Elial, Acting Secretary. 

The Minister of War, Paso del Norte. 



[Enclosure No: 3. ] # 

GOVERNMENT AND MILITARY COMMANDANCY OF THE STATE OF SONORA— RE- 
PUBLICAN ARMY BRIGADE OF OPERATIONS — UNITED SECTIONS— GENERAL- 
IN-CHIEF. 

I left Toro on the third for this city, determined to offer battle to the traitor 
Jose M. T. Almada. I passed the night at Venda. At midnight I sent out a 
band of scouts, under Cipriano Pardo, to reconnoitre the enemy's advance in 
Carrizal, which place I expected to reach on the fourth. On that night I sent 
all the cavalry under Colonel Ascencion Correa, through by-roads, to surprise 



254 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

the enemy at Salitral, while I advanced with the infantry, on the main road, to 
aid him if necessary. The enemy was surprised, and a courier of Almada 
was captured. He had despatches advising the commander at Salitral to attack 
the enemy as soon as his re-enforcements should arrive. 

On the main road near Salitral I met an advance of the enemy and took one 
prisoner ; this was about day -break.; I then sent for the cavalry to join me. 

I heard that Almada was about to move, so I hastened on and gained the 
heights of Cuchujaqui, a strong point for the enemy if they had got it. As the 
enemy did not appear, I continued to advance, meeting no opposition but a 
small cavalry force that was soon put to flight and pursued by Ensign Felipe 
Valle, with only twenty men, as far as the edge of this city. 

We rested three hours at Mercedes, and camped that night at San Antonio 
de los Norotes. 

On the 6th the enemy opened fire on my advance. I instantly changed my 
position and marched to Carboneras heights, where I waited for the attack. I 
sent out Oipriano Pardo with scouts ; they reported that the enemy was in this 
city. I then began to advance and fell into ambush, but escaped without hurt. 

At two o'clock on the morning of the 7fch I marched round the hill to get in 
the rear of the enemy ; this I accomplished before daylight, and had to wait some 
hours before it was light enough to begin the attack. The enemy then per- 
ceiving us, sent out 150 sharpshooters to annoy our flank. They were soon 
driven back. 

I advanced with the squadron of lancers and the Hidalgo batallion, sending 
the latter under Colonel Correa to flank the enemy, while the cavalry was to be 
reserved to pursue the enemy if they attempted to escape without fight. Thus 
arranged the battle began. The lancers made the first attack, and their impet- 
uosity decided the day. When I rode towards the infantry Commander Pardo 
informed me that Almada had taken to flight, protected by a small guard which 
I noticed in the distance. I started after him at such a rapid pace that the cav- 
alry of tired horses could not keep up with me, and I suddenly found myself in 
front of nine men. I drew my pistol and shot Antonio Anselmo, brother of 
the traitor Almada, and second in command, while the others ran away, leaving 
their horses and arms. My horse was wounded by two shots. 

This battle finishes the traitors in the district of Alamos. We took five pieces 
of artillery (three bronze and two iron,) 216 muskets, and other munitions of 
war. 

The enemy's loss was about 180 of all ranks. The list of our killed you will 
find annexed hereto. 

I communicate this for your information, congratulating you on a victory that 
will tend to restore peace to the weary country. 

Independence and liberty ! Alamos, January 10, 1866. 

ANGEL MARTINEZ. 

To Jesus G. Morales, 

General-in-chief of the forces in Sonora, {wherever he may be.) 

Headquarters at Noria, February 1, 1866. 
A true copy : % 

ELIAS, Secretary. 



[Enclosure No. 4. ] 

List of the hilled and wounded in the battle of the 10^/i of January, 1866, at 

Alamos. 

Killed. — Captains Manuel Isabel, Ramon Zamano ; Lieutenant Jose Pe- 
raza ; Sargeants Carman Salasar, Agustin Barajas, Nabor Mesa ; Corporals Cip- 



CONDITION OP AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 255 

riano Vallejo, Higinio Rodriguez, Pedro Rocha; Soldiers Domingo Martinez, 
Higinio Hernandez, Jesus Valdez, Eusebio Armenta, Maximo Carrasco, Tomas 
Vazquez. 

Wounded. — Captains Florentino Curiel, Dionicio Avalos ; Sergeants Anas- 
tasio Audrade, Cipriano Vallejo, Atilano Vazquez, Emilio Rodriguez, Jesus 
Chaves, Martin Castellanos ; Corporals Jose Maria Vega, Marcos Vargas, Cat- 
ariuo Cosio, Estevan Pardo, Ireneo Espinosa ; Soldiers Telesforo Valenzuela, 
Pedro Garcia, Antonio Lopez, Felix Morales, Tomas Yocupiso, Cirilo Rojas, 
Pioquinto Salado, Isabel Felix, Rafael Mugica, Jose M. Zazueta, Lorenzo Gas- 
telum, Estanislao Lopez, Antonio Victoria, Deciderio Astorga, Arcadio Bel- 
tram, Victoriano Rebeles, Victor Ruiz. 

Alamos, January 10, 1866. 

ANGEL MARTINEZ. 

Headquarters at Noria, February 1, 1866. 
A true copy : 

ELIAS, Secretary. 



[.Enclosure No. 5.] 
DEPARTMENT OF STATE, OFFICE OF WAR AND MARINE — SECTION FIRST. 

Your despatch of the 1st ultimo, with the official report and private letter of 
General Angel Martinez, has been received. It gives an account of the battle 
of Alamos and the dispersion of the traitors in that district under Almada. 

The President of the republic is pleased to hear of the gallant conduct of the 
Martinez brigade and the well-arranged plans of its commander to perfect the 
entire pacification of the State which he has mentioned. 

I communicate this to you by order of the President, who desires you to in- 
form General Martinez how much his conduct is appreciated. 

Independence and liberty ! Paso del Norte, March 6, 1866. 

MEJIA. 

General Jesus Garcia Morales, 

At Noria, (or wherever he may be.) 



True copies : 



Paso del Norte, March 6, 1S66. 
MARIANO DIAZ, Chief Officer. 



No. 85. 

Mr. Setvard to Senor Romero. 

Department of State, 

Washington, July 5, 1S66. 
Sir : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of 
the Sth of April last, enclosing No. 11 of the official paper of your government, 
which contains a statement of some military operations in Mexico, and to thank 
you for the information contained therein. 

I improve this opportunity to renew to you the assurance of my most distin- 
guished consideration. 

WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 
Senor Don M. Romero, fyv., &,, fyc. 



256 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

No. 86. 

Senor Romero to Mr. Seward. 

[Translation. ] 

Mexican Legation in the United States of America, 

Washington, June 14, 1866. 

Mr. Secretary : I have the honor to enclose to you, for the information of the 
government of the United States, a copy of No. 16 of the official paper of the gov- 
ernment of the Mexican republic, dated the 17 th of May last, embracing two com- 
munications from General Corona, chief of the brigades of Sinaloa and Jalisco, 
dated the 21st and 23d of March last, containing his official report of the ad- 
vantages gained by the national forces in the first of those States mentioned 
over the French forces and interventionists, from the 18th to the 22d of the 
month mentioned, in the vicinity of Mazatlan, and the answer of the minister of 
war to those communications on the 9th of May last. The annexed paper also 
contains a communication from the governor of the State of Sinaloa, dated 7th 
of April last, transmitting a note of General Corona giving an account of other 
advantages over the interventionists at Guadalupe, and the minister of war's 
answer thereto, General Don Ignacio Mejia, in the President's name. 

You will also find in the same paper the official report of General Garcia 
Morales, governor and military commander of the State of Sonora, on the taking 
of Magdalena, a town of that State, garrisoned by interventionists. 

I accept the occasion to renew to you, Mr. Secretary, the assurance of my 
most distinguished consideration. 

M. ROMERO. 

Hon. William H. Seward, fyc, Sp., Sfc. 



[Enclosure No. 1.— From No. 16 of the official paper of the constitutional government of the 
Mexican republic, printed at Paso del Norte, the 17th of May, 1866.] 

REPUBLICAN ARMY — UNITED BRIGADES OF SINALOA AND JALISCO — GENERAL- 
IN-CHIEF. 

On the 18th instant the enemy, to the number of four hundred French and 
six hundred traitors, made his appearance. Commander Miramontes drove 
him back from Urias to Castillo. Commander Pintado marched out with a 
squad of the liberty guides to reconnoitre and protect Miramontes. He met 
the enemy at Quemado, a vanguard of traitors and African hunters, and drove 
him back to Castillo, killing six, picking up two muskets, two lances, and a 
sword ; we losing one second sergeant killed, and one first slightly wounded. 
The enemy remained in Castillo that night, and Commander Pintado continued 
his reconnoissance in front. 

On the 19th the enemy set out for Presidio, and I started towards Quemado, 
by Mariel, with the first and second sections of the Ligera Mixta, to flank him. 
We reached the main road by noon, and found the enemy had passed. Lieu- 
tenant Colonel Parra, with a part of Ramirez's corps, brought up the rear, 
together with the second brigade and the Guias de Jalisco. Before reaching 
the river we learned that the enemy had encamped on its banks. I ordered 
Lieutenant Colonel Parra to take a circuit to the river, and General Gutierrez to 
do the same by another route. They both reached the river at two o'clock in 
the afternoon without accident, and found themselves facing the enemy in Pre- 
sidio. On our approach a column of French rifles marched down to the bank 
of the river in front of us. I re-enforced Parra with a company of Guias de 
Jalisco, and ordered him to charge the enemy on the right flank, which he did 
with so much spirit that the traitors were repulsed with the loss of many killed, 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 257 

and, among them, the famous assassin Mauricio Castaneda. The second brigade, 
with two mountain howitzers, attacked the centre. The Ramirez brio-ade 3 fell 
on the left flank of the enemy, and, after a hard contest, succeeded in driving 
him to the suburbs, breaking his line of battle. Want of ammunition caused 
the attacking party some anxiety, until it was supplied by the first brigade. 
The attack was now renewed with such force the French were forced into the 
town, where Colonel Tolenthio compelled them to capitulate. While negotia- 
tions were pending the enemy was re -enforced, and our troops had to retire pre- 
cipitately, leaving two howitzers in the enemy's possession. I withdrew to 
take care of my wounded, and ordered Colonel Parra and Lieutenant Colonel 
Francisco Tolentino to annoy the enemy, supported by General Gutierrez 

As I have no reports yet, I cannot say how many men we have lost, but I 
know our loss is considerable. Among our officers, Lieutenant Colonel George 
Granados, Commander Miguel Peregrina, Captain Geronimo Saavedra, and 

Lieutenant Tiburcio Serrano were wounded. The enemy's loss is great, for I 

have seen many dead French and traitors on the field. Most of the traitors 

scattered, and twenty-three have come into my lines. 

There was a slight skirmish about night. Commander Donato Guerra reports 

that he attacked the enemy at Palos Prietos, and drove him into the town. 
On the morning of the 20th Commander Pintado attacked the enemy near 

Aguacaliente, and drove him from his trenches, with the loss of only six killed. 

Firing of artillery and musketry was continued during the day. At night the 

traitors and French tried to water some horses at the river, but we drove them 

away, killing three of them. 

You will inform the ministry of war that I will give a detailed report as soon 

as I can get the necessary information. 

Independence and the country! Camp at Garita, fronting the Presidio 

March 21, 1866. & 



Citizen Governor of the State, Culiacan. 



RAMON CORONA. 



[Enclosure No. 2,] 

REPUBLICAN ARMY— UNITED BRIGADES OF SINALOA AND JALISCO— GENERAL- 
IN-CHIEF. 

Citizen Governor: I have already given an account of events at Presidio 
up to the evening of the 20th instant. There was little firing that night. On 
the morning of the 21st the enemy again approached the river and was driven 
back with no loss on our side. The next day there was a skirmish, in which we 
lamented the loss of our brave commander, C. Juan Miramontes. 

At seven in the evening the enemy attracted our attention in several places, 
and finally escaped towards Balamo, along the river road. At eight all our line 
was on the move, and 1 ordered Colonel Francisco Tolentino, with a part of his 
corps, to cut off the enemy's retreat, which he did ; however, the land was so 
broken and the enemy's hurry so great, he managed to get by, and we had to 
follow him with the cavalry, under Colonel Eulogio Parra and Commander 
.Leonardo Pintado, a league beyond the river. 

The narrowness of the road prevented the effective action of the cavalry. 
In view of this I ordered a portion of the infantry in front, under Captain No- 
riega and Commander C. Aacencion G. Calvillo, as aid. They pursued the fly- 
ing enemy till five in the morning, when we stopped to rest, as our forces were 
much fatigued, and the enemy had got under shelter of their gunboats. He 
left three dead. We lost two men at Balamo, and Captain Maximiano Ramirez 
was wounded; further on, another soldier was wounded, and before we arrived 
at the river bank one of our men was killed and two wounded in the Deffollano 
17 mex. 



258 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

battalion. After setting fire to some houses in Presidio, and destroying a cotton 
factory, the enemy retreated rapidly, closely pursued by our men, and left the 
following effects on the road : 7 loads of ammunition, 9S muskets, 2 mountain 
pieces, 15 sacks of flour, sugar, bread and coffee, 5 loads of baggage, 27 har- 
nessed mules, and 5 horses. 

On my return to Presidio I ordered the tents to be struck, and 82 bodies to 
be buried ; 61 of these were republicans, whose name, rank and station are on 
the list, and 76 were wounded, which I sent to the hospital. These events hap- 
pened from the 19th to the 22d of the present month. You will perceive that 
the number of killed and wounded is about equal; but I account for this by 
hearing that the enemy took no prisoners, for the 15 that were taken from us 
on the 19th were shot as soon as all important information could be extorted 
from them. 

400 French and 600 traitors left the port with six mountain howitzers and 
one field-piece; and 250 French, with 77 wounded, and 250 traitors, with 20 
wounded and 3 field pieces, left Presidio at the same time. 

[ am trying to find if the missing pieces are buried or hid in the thicket. 
The French at the port speak in terror of the bravery of our soldiers, and in 

ct I must say they all did their duty. 

I send you this communication for the information of the war department. 

Independence and liberty ! Union Villa, March 23, 1866. 

RAMON CORONA. 

Citizen Governor of the State, Culiacan. 



[Enclosure No. 3.] 
DEPARTMENT OF STATE, OFFICE OF WAR AXD MARINE — SBCTION FIRST. 

By your communications of the 21st and 23d of March of this year from the 
chief of the united brigades of Sinaloa and Jalisco, the citizen President of the 
republic is informed of the military operations on the 18th and 22d of this 
month, in which 400 French and 600 traitors, with six pieces of artillery, were 
driven out of Mazatlan and pursued as far as Presidio. 

The persevering courage of our troops in pursuit of the enemy as far as Pre- 
sidio, causing him great loss, has broken up his intended expedition into the in- 
terior, and been of signal service to the national cause. The enemy must now 
be convinced that it is impossible to subjugate us, as the patriotism of true 
Mexicans cannot be extinguished. 

The success of the strategy of the general-in-chief of the united brigades of 
Sinaloa and Jalisco, and the worthy conduct of his subalterns in the different 
engagements, shows that the expedition has been properly conducted, and the 
triumphant result gives great satisfaction to the citizen President, who instructs 
me to congratulate you, and give you his most cordial thanks. 

Independence and liberty! Paso del Norte, May 9, 1866. 

MEJIA. 

(Citizen Governor and Military Commander 

of the State of Sinaloa, Culiacan. 



[Enclosure No. 4.] 
DEPARTMENT OF GOVERNMENT AND MILITARY COMMANDANCY OF THE STATE 

• OF SINALOA. 

The citizen general-in-chief of the united brigades of Sinaloa and Jalisco 
makes the following communication to this government, from the Labor estate, 
on the 6th instant: 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 259 

General Guzman writes me on the 24th ultimo that his brigade was sur- 
prised in Guajicori, at eight o'clock in the morning, by a large body of Lozada's 
traitors, and the town was set on fire for the fourth time. He has not yet given 
me an account of his losses. On the 27th he writes me from Agua Caliente that 
all his scattered forces have not yet been collected ; that he laments the loss of 
Major Francisco Cruz Pena, Santos Flores, lieutenant of the fourth com- 
pany of the Pueblos Unidos battalion, and twelve men, names unknown. He 
does not know the enemy's loss, though he saw several new graves near the 
Guajicori church, and knows that one corpse was carried -as far as Acaponeta. 
He says 500 Indians from Nayarit came down to join him on the 26th. On 
the 29th Lozada entered Rosario with 2,000 men and a battery of field-pieces. 

Lieutenant Colonel Donato Guerra reports on the same day that he had a 
skirmish with the enemy at the port of Mazatian, a short time before he left. 

Six or seven hundred French and traitors, with four pieces of artillery, left 
the port on the 30th and camped at Palos Prietos. The next day they went to 
Higueras, and Lozada left Rosario for Agua Caliente. 

While the enemy was taking all these turns, I missed several good opportu- 
nities for a fight. 

At seven in the evening of the 31st I saw the citizen governor of the State, 
who had just come by forced marches from Culiacan. I consulted with him 
about the situation, and we agreed to attack Lozada on his march. Munitions 
arrived at ten at night, and our troops were supplied. The citizen governor 
started for -Verde with forces to attack Lozada, and I set out towards Siqueros, 
to cut off the French. 

On the 1st instant, at five in the morning, our scouts reported that the French 
from the port were advancing upon Siqueros. I ordered Colonel Parra to send 
Lieutenant Colonel Manuel Crespo, with a part of the Ramirez corps under Be- 
cerra, to Verde, and commanded Lieutenant Colonel Donato Guerra to watch 
the port with Crespo. General Gutierrez started towards Verde with the second 
brigade, but learned from General Rubi on the way that Lozada had entered 
Concordia, five leagues from Verde, on the morning of the 10th. 

It was noon and our forces had not concentrated. Colonel Crespo informed 
me that the enemy had camped in front of Siqueros, five leagues trom Verde, 
and our advance was in sight. It was agreed to attack Lozada in Concordia, 
and Noriega was sent to join Crespo with his infantry. Before reaching Con- 
cordia, General Rubi branched off to the left with a part of the first brigade and 
one cannon, and the Guias de Jalisco, to flank the enemy. General Gutierrez 
kept the main road with part of the second brigade, two cannons, the rest of 
the Ramirez corps, the Guias de la Libertad and the Hernandez corps. 1 fol- 
lowed General Gutierrez. 

At six in the evening General Rubi began the attack on the left flank. Gene- 
ral Gutierrez's column made an advance and established a battery that did good 
execution. The Degollado battalion threatened the right flank, and the rest of 
the infantry charged upon the centre boldly. The cavalry then came into action 
and rushed so desperately upon the enemy, that in less than one hour he scat- 
tered and left us masters of the town. 

Night now came on, and as it was very dark, and our soldiers might fire on 
each other by mistake, I ordered General Rubi to beat a retreat in good order. 
This was elegantly executed under the direction of Colonel Alejandro Hernan- 
dez and Lieutenant Colonel Abel Pereira, both of my staff. The ground was 
so uneven here, I ordered part of the cavalry to Jacobo, and the rest, with the 
infantry, to Copala, postponing the attack indefinitely, as I knew the enemy 
was to be re-enforced the next morning. 

Our losses are insignificant; but we have to lament the death of the brave 
and distinguished General Jose M. Gutierrez, chief of the second brigade, and 
of the valiant Colonel Onofie Campana, from Cosala, leader of the Victoria bat- 



260 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

talion. I don't know the enemy's loss; but it must be considerable, thougli 
half of the force scattered in dismay. I will give the particulars as soon as 
obtained. 

The report of artillery on the 2d, in the direction of Siqueros, informed me 
that the enemy was resisting our troops in that quarter ; so I ordered General 
Rubi to their assistance with infantry, while I went towards Bajio with the cav- 
alry in the evening. Colonel Parra informed me that same day, the 2d, that he 
arrived at Jacobo at the same time with the Pameco battalion, under Colonel 
Martinez. Lozada attacked them at two that day with cavalry and infantry, 
but was routed and pursued as long as the ammunition held out. The enemy's 
killed are found all along the road from Jacobo as far as the pursuit lasted. 
We only bad two soldiers killed. After a slight skirmish with the French that 
day, Crespo retired to Parras while they retreated to Cofradia, where they 
camped. Our men then returned to Siqueros. 

On the morning of the 3d the French advanced upon Siqueros, but were 
driven back to Cofradia. One traitor was made prisoner. The French retreated 
next day to Presidio, 

Colonel Guerra informed on the 4th that he approached the port the day be- 
fore and provoked an attack from the enemy, with no bad results. He also says 
the French had joined Lozada, but their combined force is greatly demoralized. 

That evening Guerra had a skirmish with the enemy at Palos Prietos. The 
gunboat Lucifer came up and our men had to retreat. 

The same chief reports that on the morning of the 5th the French and Lo- 
zada were at Presidio, Pozole, and Garita ; Lozada's forces so demoralized he 
could do nothing with them. Up to the last account Guerra's advance was at 
Palos Prietos, while he remained at Venadillo. A report from the same chief says 
that Captain Zuniga, of the Miramontes corps, gave notice that the enemy was 
encamped at Urias and Castillo. Guerra was preparing to attack the port the 
next day ; but learning that the French were advancing in force upon him, he 
retreated with the loss of one soldier, and the French re-enforcements succeeded 
in getting to the port. 

As soon as I can ascertain the number of my killed^and wounded, I will make 
an official report, from the 1st to the 5th. 

I cannot be partial in the recommendation of my officers, for they have all 
done their duty; their courageous behavior has forced respect from the invaders, 
and has won the admiration of every republican. I cannot sufficiently praise 
the conduct of the inhabitants of the districts invaded by the hordes of Lozada. 
With the single exception of Rosario and Zavala, all the inhabitants left their 
houses and property to destruction. 

The State of Sinaloa may be proud of her sons, for they are true patriots, pre- 
ferring poverty to the protection of the invaders. 

I make this communication for the information of the war department, by in- 
structions from the general-in-chief of the united brigades, as well as for the 
information of the citizen President of the republic. 

Independence and liberty! San Ignacio, April 7, 1866. 



F. SEPULVEDA. 



Citizen Minister of War, Paso del Norte. 



[Enclosure No. 5.] 
DEPARTMENT OF STATE AND OFFICE OF WAR AND MARINE— SECTION FIRST. 

By your report of the 7th of April, the citizen President of the republic is 
informed of the important movements of the general-in-chief of the united brigades 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 261 

of Sinaloa and Jalisco, which broke up the expedition of Lozada and his French 
allies, by an attack at Concordia, forcing them to retreat in great disorder, and 
seek refuge in the port of Mazatlan, protected by the gunboat Lucifer, stationed 
there. 

The citizen President instructs me to express his satisfaction at the courage 
of the officers and men who gained this great victory, the result of which is to 
embarrass the enemy and encourage our party to attack Mazatlan. 

The citizen President regrets our losses, particularly the death of the valiant 
General Jose M. Gutierres and Colonel Onofre Campaua; also of Major Fran- 
cisco Cruz Pena, and other officers and men who fell in the action, and con- 
tributed so much to its fortunate result. Please inform the general-in-chief of the 
united brigades of Sinaloa and Jalisco that the citizen President is much pleased 
with his conduct, and congratulates him on the happy results of the victory. 

Independence and liberty! Paso del Norte, May 9, 1866. 

MEJIA. 

Citizen Governor and Military Commander 

of the State of Sinaloa, Culiacan. 

Paso del Norte, May 9, 1S66. 
True copies : 

MARIANO DIAZ, Chief Officer. 



[Enclosure No. 6. ] 

GOVERNMENT OF SONORA — REPUBLICAN ARMY, FIRST BRIGADE — GENERAL-IN- 
CHIEF. 

Citizen Governor: As I informed you, and not to remain inactive while 
forces are collecting for action inland, I ordered a movement, which has resulted 
in the disarming of certain towns. On the 2d instant I set out from Banamichi, 
in great haste, to surprise Opodepe and Tuape, where I captured seventy 
muskets and a few horses. 

On the night of the 4th I halted four miles from Gucurpe, having unex- 
pectedly come up with the enemy at that place. I proposed a parley, which 
was answered by shouts for the empire by the defenders of the place. Having 
rested sufficiently, and observing that the traitors were preparing for resistance, 
I ordered three companies to advance in different directions, till they came 
within speaking distance of the besieged. This operation lasted one hour ; then 
firing began on both sides, and continued till 2 o'clock, when the imperialists 
were dislodged from the house-tops and towers they were occupying, thanks to 
our sharpshooters on the slope of a hill near by. 

At 4 o'clock a signal for parley was made. The rebel chief offered to sur- 
render with a guarantee of life. This was granted, and the following articles 
were given up: 120 muskets, two chests of ammunition, 118 cartridge-boxes, and 
a few lances. 

The garrison consisted of 115 men, ten officers, the commander-in-chief, and 
ex-Lieutenant Colonel Don Manuel J. Castro. 

Independence and liberty! Magdalena, April 6, 1866. 

J. G. MORALES. 

Citizen Governor and Military Commander 

of the State of Sonora, (loherever he may be.) 

A true copy : 

G. MORALES. 



262 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

No. 87. 

Mr. Seward to S'e/wr Romero. 

Department of State, 

Washington, July 7, 1S66. 
Sir : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of 
the 14th ultimo, transmitting a copy of No. 16 of the official paper of your gov- 
ernment, publishing some correspondence on the military operations in Mexico, 
and to thank you for the information. 

I embrace this opportunity to renew to you the assurance of my most dis- 
tinguished consideration. 



WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 



Senor Don M. Romero, fye., fye., &fc. 



No. 88. 

[Translation.] 

Setlor Romero to Mr. Seward. 

Mexican Legation to the United States of America, 

Washington, July 6, 1866. 

Mr. Secretary: I have the honor to semit to you, for the information of 
the government of the United States, a copy of No. 19 of the official newspaper 
of the constitutional government of the Mexican republic, published at Paso 
del Norte the 7th of June last, in which you will see the official report which 
General Pesqueira, governor of the State of Sonora, gave to the department of 
war and marine on the 10th of May last, of the military operations of the forces 
of the united brigades of Sonora and Jalisco, under his orders, and which resulted 
in the taking of the city of Hermosillo, which occurred on the 4th of May 
aforesaid. 

This occasion to renew to you, Mr. Secretary, the assurances of my most 
distinguished consideration is very gratifying to me. 

M. ROMERO. 

Hon. William BI. Seward, 8fc, 8fc, Sfc. 



[Enclosure No. 1. — Translation. — From the official paper of the constitutional government 
of the Mexican republic, Paso del Norte, June 7, 1366. — Extracts.] 

GOVERNMENT AND MILITARY COMMAND OF THE STATE OF SONORA REPUBLI- 
CAN ARMY, UNITED BRIGADES OF SONORA AND JALISCO. 

Under date of Sth May, General Martinez makes to these headquarters the 
report following: 

On the 1st instant I set out from this point to attack Hermosillo ; bivou- 
acked in the field in front of San Jose de Pimas. On the 2d reached Zubiate, 
and at night halted near Hermosillo ; at dawn reached the suburbs. 

Before reaching Zubiate caught some scouts of the enemy ; made three pris- 
oners ; the officer in command escaped. 

Two leagues from Hermosillo we met some twenty men of the enemy's ad- 
vance : killed three, took three, and scattered the rest. Among the killed was 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 263 

the commander, the traitor Captain Estrada. Learned from the prisoners that 
Hermosillo was garrisoned by about 300 men, among them fifty of the Foreign 
Legion, all under orders of the traitor Jose M. Tranquilino Almada. 

The scouting detachment, which took the direction of Guayrnas, captured two 
officers the one a Mexican, the other a Spaniard called Jose de la Rosa, adju- 
tant to Almada. He was shot; the Mexican was forgiven. 

The enemy was checked in several attempts to get off. He made a sally on 
the G-uaymas route, which was covered by the scouting party under command 
of Petronilo Silvia. On the 4th I began the attack on the height defended by 
the Foreign Legion. At half past nine we were masters of the place; part of 
the Foreign Legion escaped with Almada. The enemy abandoned more than 
200 muskets, two pieces of artillery and their munitions. I found many dead, 
most of the Foreign Legion. Our loss was small, about thirty killed and 
wounded. 

Some repetition of the same report is made by Colonel Morales, which in due 
form is despatched to the government by Pesqueira, governor of Sonora. 

[No other mention is made of foreigners than as members of the Foreign Le- 
gion ; none whatever of American citizens. — Tr.] 



No. 89. 

Mr. Seward to Senor Romero. 

Department of State, 

Washington, July 12, 1866. 
Sir : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of 
the 6th instant, containing a copy of No. 19 of the official paper of your gov- 
ernment, giving an account of some military operations, and to thank you for 
the information. 

I avail myself of this opportunity to renew to you the assurances of my most 
distinguished consideration. 

WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 
Senor Don Matias Romero, fyc, Sfc, fyc. 



No. 90. 

Senor Romero to Mr. Seivard. 

[Translation.] 

Mexican Legation in the United States of America, 

Washington, November 25, 1866. 

Mr Secretary : I have the honor to transmit to you, for the information of 
the government of the United States, the documents mentioned in the annexed 
index, mostly taken from the official paper of the Mexican republic, and con- 
sisting chiefly of official reports of military operations in the western military 
division of the Mexican republic, from July to September of the present^ year. 

It is with pleasure I avail myself of the present opportunity of renewing to 
you, Mr. Secretary, the assurances of my most distinguished consideration. 
* ■ M: ROMERO. 

Hon. William II. Seward, fyc, Sfc, Sfc. 



264 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 



Index of documents sent hy the Mexican legation in Washington to the Depart- 
ment of btate of the United States, with the note of this date, in relation to 
operations on the western military line. 



No. 


Date. 


Contents. 




1866. 




1 


June 


23 


General Kubi, governor of Sinaloa, transmits the official report of the 
battle of Yxcuintla. 


2 


July 


18 


The minister of war acknowledges the receipt of same. 


3 


June 


30 


Letter of General Pesquiera, governor of Sonora, to the consul of the 
republic in San Francisco, California, reporting his military movements 
in the months of May and Juno, 1866. 


4 


Aug. 


14 


General Martinez's official report of the capture of Hermosillo, in the State 
of Sonora. 


5 


Sept. 


26 


Minister of war's answer to same. 


6 


Sept. 


2 


Official report of the attack of Alamos. 


7 


Sept. 


7 


General Pesquiera's official report to the minister of war of the capture of 

Ures. 
Eeply of the minister of war. 


8 


Oct. 


5 


9 


Sept. 


14 


Official report of General Corona, chief of the western army, of the battle 
of Palos Prietos, near Mazatlan. 


10 


Oct. 


8 


Eeply of the minister of war. 


11 


Sept. 


19 


Correspondence from Mazatlan in regard to the situation on the western 
military line. 


12 


Sept. 


21 


Mazatlan correspondence on the same subject. 



Washington, November 25, 1866. 



IGNO. MARISCAL, Secretary 



[Enclosure No. 1. — From the government official paper, No. 21, Chihuahua, July 20, 1866.] 
GOVERNMENT AND MILITARY COMMANDANCY OF THE STATE OF SINALOA. 

The general-in-chief of the united brigades of Sinaloa and Jalisco reports as 
follows from that quarter : 

" The citizen general, Perfecto Guzman, reports from Acaponeta on the 18th 
to these headquarters, as follows : 

" ' By special orders from headquarters, I set out from Oacalotan on the 8th for 
Santiago Izcuintla, with my brigade and Colonel Donato Guerra's cavalry, 
trying to keep our movements secret from the enemy, who discovered us by 
means of his scouts. 

" 'At 10 o'clock p. m. of the 13th I reached Arrayan plain, where, in consulta- 
tion with Colonel Donato Guerra, Colonel Juan de Dios Bojas, and Lieutenant 
Colonel Andres Blancarte, I determined to divide our attacking forces as follows : 
On the centre were the Huajicori battalion of Colonel Cipriano Segundo, and 
the independents of Celso Cosio ; on the right was the section of Colonel Camilo 
Isiordia ; and on the left, Colonel Florencio Pacheco, with a cavalry section. 
The second Huajicori battalion, under Colonel Eligio Alvarez, and the Ocampo 
squadron, under Colonel Jesus Arteaga, and the Guzman squadron, under 
Francisco Lora, were held as reserves. With the forces so distributed, and my 
orders given, I marched to Santiago on the 14th by 8 o'clock in the morning. 
I ordered the attack upon the centre. The enemy, under Agaton Martinez and 
Jose Zapia, was assaulted so rudely he gave way and left us masters of the field 
after half an hour's fight. On tbe evening of the same day the enemy assem- 
bled on the opposite side of the river more than one hundred cavalry, and crossed 
back at Palomas ford to attack me. I ordered Colonel Guerra out with two 



CONDITION OF AFFAIKS IN MEXICO. 265 

hundred cavalry to meet them ; they took to flight, and were pursued two miles 
or more. The enemy lost thirty-one killed, among them an engineer and the 
commander of the place, both Frenchmen. Fifty prisoners, mostly natives, were 
captured ; eight muskets, fourteen rifles, two sabres, three pistols, thirteen sad- 
dles, one hundred and two horses, and fifteen mules were taken. 

" ' On our side, Jesus Verdugo, second sergeant in the Ocampo squadron, was 
wounded. At night my men came into the town and remained three days, when 
we had to leave for want of provisions, coming to this place, where I am awaiting 
orders. I must commend to your consideration, chiefs, officers, and soldiers, for 
they all did their duty.' 

"All of which I have the honor to communicate to you, and congratulate you 
on this new triumph for republican arms." 

I send you a copy of this for your own information, and that you may com- 
municate it to the war department. And I transcribe it for you, citizen minister, 
for your intelligence. 

Independence and liberty ! Recodo, June 23, 1866. 

DOMINGO RUBL 

F. Sepulveda, Secretary. 

The Minister of War and Marine, (wherever he may be.) 



[Enclosure No. 2.] 
DEPARTMENT OF STATE — BUHEAU OF WAR AND MARINE — SECTION FIRST. 

In your despatch of the 23d of June last, enclosing me the report of the 
general-in-chief of the united brigades of Sinaloa and Jalisco, of the same date, 
the President of the republic has had the pleasure to find a confirmation of the 
success of General Perfecto Guzman's expedition, with Colonel Donato Guerra, 
against Lozada's gang. We are glad to hear the enemy was whipped in the 
first encounter on the 8th, and the town of Santiago Izcuintla captured ; also, 
that he was badly repulsed on the second attack, with the loss of thirty-one 
killed, one an officer of the place, and the other an engineer, and fifty prisoners 
taken, eight shot guns, fourteen muskets, two sabres, three pistols, thirteen 
saddles, one hundred and two horses, and fifteen mules. 

The citizen President is much pleased to learn the success of the expedition, 
and the gallant behavior of the officers and men, to Avhom he requests me to 
present his thanks. 

Independence and liberty ! Chihuahua, July 18, 1866. 

MEJIA. 

The Governor and Military Commander 

of the State of Sinaloa, (wherever he may be.) 



[Enclosure No. 3.] 

Alamos, June 30, 1866. 

Much Esteemed Friend : I received your welcome letter of the 30th of May 
yesterday ; it gave me the more pleasure, with the news in it, as it is the only 
one I have had from you since December, when you sent me the President's 
permission to visit your city. I wrote to you then that I could not come on 
account of fever, which left me very weak, in spite of the active life I have led 
since March. I wrote to you also about the end of February, informing you I 
intended to take the field, but you say neither of the letters reached you. 

I have heard of Mr. Gonzalez's aspirations, and the discredit he has brought 
upon himself by attempting to take the presidency from Mr. Juarez. He is so 



266 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

blind lie cannot see how false and ridiculous his position is. The political career 
of Gonzalez Ortega and his adherents furnishes us another example of those 
anomalies so frequent in this transition period, when a new germ of life is bud- 
ding for the republic. Such is my hope, and I know our ills will end, because 
I trust in the prudence and energy of our worthy President and his brave col- 
laborators in the work of moral reorganization. 

It would make this letter too long to tell you all that has occurred since I 
quit my asylum in the territory of Arizona, and I will not trouble you with a 
detail of the causes that brought me to my present situation. 

General Garcia Morales took the field four months before me, while I was 
sick, and did much good. Now conquering, then conquered, his constant ac- 
tivity did much to encourage the people of Sonora, who have never despaired 
of the country's safety. When I returned to the scene of action I found all 
disposed to join against the oppressors. If we seem slow in organizing our 
forces, it is because we are in want of arms that should have reached us long 
ago. However, I can say to you, we have got over the worst, and are now 
ready to give the traitors a finishing blow. 

The forces of General Martinez united with mine, under the title of the uni- 
ted brigades of Sonora, Sinaloa, and Jalisco, attacked Almada in Hermosillo 
with four hundred men. Taken in force on the 4th of May, we had to fight six 
hours against Langberg and Tanori, who came up with eight hundred men. It 
was a hard-fought battle, and fortune began to favor us, when a panic demoral- 
ized our forces, just at the time the enemy started for Alamito, five leagues from 
Hermosillo, with nobody to pursue him. I merely mention this to show you 
what an opportunity we have lost from a small circumstance. 

The battle-field was entirely deserted, but it was too late to rally in pursuit. 
General Martinez and I remained in Hermosillo till midnight, with an escort of 
only fifty cavalry, waiting for re-enforcements ; but both the cavalry and infantry 
were too far from the field of action in different directions, and so the enemy 
had time to return and occupy the place the next day. In Langberg's report 
of the 6th of May there was but one truth. He said, " Oar loss was consider- 
able ;" and he had a right to say so, for he lost more than half his forces in the 
two actions of the 4th. 

Another expedition took place on the 5th of June on the same town, and as 
soon as our troops approached, the garrison disbanded, and left in our possession 
one rifled cannon, some provisions, and ninety muskets. 

This was the time to have destroyed Tanori, who was present with all his 
forces, but fortune did not favor us this time either. The Indians routed a sec- 
tion of our forces under Alcontara, and thus frustrated our intentions. But the 
misfortune has only put us back a few months, when the enemy will have to be 
kept at bay by rangers. 

Though the traitors have called upon the French in Guaymas to aid them, they 
have obtained no succor. They came out on the 29th of May with three hun- 
dred men to open the way, but finding we were ready for them they retreated to 
Cieneguita. But for that demonstration you would suppose the invaders did not 
care what became of their allies. 

They are preparing to continue operations with more vigor, and I think we 
shall have an engagement by the end of next month, when I hope to have the 
pleasure to give you the news of the restoration of constitutional order in the 
whole State. 

As ever, your affectionate friend and colleague, 

I. PESQUIERA. 

To Senor Don Jose Antonio Godoy, 

Mexican Consul in San Francisco. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIHS IN MEXICO 267 

[Enclosure Xo. 4 ] 

MEXICAN REPUBLIC — GOVERNMENT AND MILITARY COMMANOANCY OF THE 

STATE OF SONORA. 

General Angel Martinez, major general of the united brigades of Sonora, 
Sinaloa, and Jalisco, on the 14th, reports as follows : 

Republican Army, United Brigades, General's Quarters. 

I have the honor to report operations to you from the lime we left Oumuripa 
till our occupation of this place. On the 23d ultimo the Sinaloa and Juarez de- 
fenders, with Colonel Jote T. Otero's forces, met in Gumuripa, and started next 
day to the Suaqui mines. We reached Tecoripa on the 25th. The Sonora 
battalion, under Otero, was sent from Suaqui to attack the traitor Arvallo in 
San Javier. A hard rain impeded his operations, and gave the enemy a chance 
to escape. He was pursued, and two prisoners were taken from Campos, who 
left his horse and escaped on foot. Colonel Otero accomplished this bold feat. 

On the 28th we left Tecoripa and camped for the night at Cumbros On the 
29th we reached Adivino, and came to Matape by the 30th. From that place 
a message was sent to General Jesus Garcia Morales, ordering him forward 
with the forces he had. At Pitiquito we heard he had suffered a reverse, and 
of course could not come to Matape. By forced marches on the 12th and 13th, 
we reached this city by your orders, where we surprised the garrison of 150 
men, who ran off and left their guns in our possession. 

"We pursued the enemy and killed nine, and two wounded were sent to the 
hospital. It was the 13th when we occupied the place, and we go into quarters 
to-day. All preparation is made for the enemy, in case be returns to attack us. 

The inhabitants welcomed us as their real deliverers, and you know our sol- 
diers have done their duty as defenders of the honor and independence of our 
dear country. 

I felicitate you cordially on tbe conclusion of a campaign that restores the 
legitimate State government in the principal city of Sonora. 

Independence and liberty! Hermosillo, August 14, 1866. 

ANGEL MARTINEZ. 

The General-in-Chief, Present. 

In transmitting the. above to you, I will add, that you may make it known 
to the President of the republic, that notwithstanding the sufferings of our 
soldiers, none have deserted, and all are cheerful ; and the way in which the 
citizens offer their services to the government is the most conclusive proof of 
the hate tbe citizens have for the empire, except the traitors of Gandara. 
Independence and liberty ! Hermosillo, August 17, 1S66. 

IGNACIO PESQUIERA. 
J. J. AYILA, First Officer. 
The Minister of War. 



[Enclosure Xo 5.] 
DEPARTMENT OF STATE, BRANCH OF WAR AND MARINE — -SECTION FIRST. 

The citizen President of the republic has had the pleasure of receiving your 
despatch of the 17th of August last, enclosing that of the 14th, from General 
Angel Martinez, reporting his operations from the 23d up to date, when he dis- 
persed the traitor forces under Arvallo, and occupied Hermosillo on the 13th 
of August, surprising the garrison. 

Independence and liberty! Chihuahua, September 26, 1866. 

MEJIA. 
General Ignacio Pesquiera, 

Governor and Military Commander of the State of Sonora, in Hermosillo. 



268 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

[Enclosure No. 6. J 

GOVERNMENT AND MILITARY COMMANDANOY OF THE STATE OF CHIHUAHUA — 
REPUBLICAN ARMY, MATAMORAS SECTION — COMMANDANT'S QUARTERS. 

At half-past ten this day, the traitor Jose Tranquilino Almada, with two 
hundred cavalry armed with sabres and muskets, and 400 foot rifles of Pimas 
and Yaquis, and 000 Jara Indians of Yaquis and Mayos, appeared on Crucecito 
hill, and threatened the town, garrisoned by 130 cavalry and 350 infantry, in- 
cluding my command. We instantly marched out to meet them at Aurora, 
where they had halted. Finding they were trying to surround the town, the 
commander divided us into three columns. 

The enthusiasm of our soldiers amounted to frenzy, and in one hour of fierce 
combat a most glorious day was gained for the country. The enemy, fright- 
ened by the fury of our brave republicans, cowardly fled in every direction, 
leaving fourteen loads of ammunition, sixty-seven fire-arms, most of them fine 
French rifles, a few horses and lances, &c. We also found scattered arms and 
ammunition in the tents; that have not yet been removed, and the correspond- 
ence of the traitor Almada, who escaped with his sons and six officers over the 
hills. They were pursued by our men, guided by one of Almada's deserters, 
and it is hoped he may be overtaken. 

Sixty-seven killed of the enemy have been found on the battle-field, and thir- 
teen out of twenty-one prisoners were shot. On our side, we regret the death 
of two of our cavalry, and nine men wounded, two of the Matamoras section. 
This explains the dread of the enemy for our soldiers. 

All the chiefs, officers, and men engaged in this action behaved gallantly, and 
merit commendation ; but I will confine myself to my own command, and say I 
am satisfied with all my officers and men, but particularly with citizens Edward 
Valenzuela, Martin Salido, Vicente S. Ampudia, and Jesus and Juan Salido, 
who came to us in the beginning of the action, and conducted themselves with 
exceeding bravery. 

Please accept my congratulations, and felicitate the governor of the State 
on this triumph of the national arms over traitors, and commend the patriots of 
the canton for the part they took in the engagement. 

Independence and liberty ! Alamos, September 2, 1866. 

JOSE M. BARBEITIA. 

The Civil Chief of the Canton of Matamoras. 

Guazapares, September 6, 1866. 
A true copy : 

JOSE M. ZEA. 



[Enclosure No. 7.] 
GOVERNMENT AND MILITARY COMMANDANCY OF THE STATE OF SONORA. 

General A. Martinez, major general of the united brigades, communicated to 
me yesterday, the following report: 

Ensign Epifanio Casanova, chief of our explorers, arrived at Rayon on the 
2d instant, with the news that a portion of the enemy's cavalry, numbering fifty, 
had fallen upon us at Noria de Aquilar, killing two out of the ten men there. 
Lieutenant Colonel Nicolas Gonzales was instantly sent out with cavalry in 
pursuit, joined by Santiago Valle. 

On the 3d Nicolas Gonzales had a skirmish with the enemy that seemed to 
be going to Rayon. We instantly sallied out to meet him. He took the strong 
position at Huerta, and we encamped on a neighboring hill. Our cavalry soon 
joined us, leaving Captain Casildo Manjarrez to watch the enemy two miles 
from us. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 269 

The Tepic lancers, under Captain Severiano Sanchez, came up the next day 
with twenty men to watch the enemy. As our forces were not acquainted with 
the ground, the enemy intercepted the communication with us; but, after a 
slight skirmish, they got back safely to our camp. 

The enemy was still at Huerta on the 4th, and to dislodge him we came to 
this place. Before arriving at Noria we caught an enemy's scout, who told us 
his force was of 1,000 men of all arms, and lour pieces of light artillery, com- 
manded by the traitor Tanori. On the way we had notice that General Jesus 
G. Morales was about to join us with a small force of infantry and cavalry. 

At Noria de Gandara we came up with the Sonora cavalry, under Jose Pes- 
quiera. Before reaching Bajadero three of the enemy's spies were captured, 
who told us that Langberg bad just passed, with an escort of only fifteen men, 
going to join Tanori. He was pursued, but not taken. We halted a while at 
the Bajadero, and then went on to Guadalupe, to make it the base of our opera- 
tions. The western brigades crossed the river at the ford to skirmish with the 
enemy; and the Sonora brigade, under Antonio Bincon, remained to wait for 
General Jesus G. Morales. We had hardly got to Santa Rita when Colonel 
Davalos informed us that Bincon told him the enemy, imder Langberg and Ta- 
nori, had fallen upon him, and he was retreating. We soon heard the report of 
fire-arms, and the enemy soon made his appearance on an eminence in front of 
Santa Bita, his sharpshooters pursuing our cavalry. To protect our baggage I 
had it gathered on Santa Bita hill, and guarded by Colonel Miguel Silva. We 
then began our retreat in order, though much harassed by the enemy attacking 
us on all sides. 

Under these circumstances, I determined to risk a battle, and I sent Colonel 
Davalos with his Sonora defenders and hunters to secure a retreat. In our re- 
treat two of our wagons stuck in the mud and could not be got out, and a 
wounded man in one of them was killed by the enemy. This incident made 
the traitors think our forces demoralized and in full retreat. 

The Sonora cavalry of Jose Pesquiera was not in the action, because it was 
called off on other duty. 

The western cavalry brigade came upon the town by the Paso de Aguilar, 
and went on to Guadalupe, where the roar of cannon indicated the battle that 
was going on. The enemy was attacking the hunters, who defended themselves 
bravely. The first Sonora battalion, under Prospero Salazar, formed on our 
right to protect our flank passage. All this was done while the battle was going 
on. The enemy began by charging our right flank, and was beaten back to his 
original position by the Sonora battalion. We were now opportunely re-enforced 
by the second Sonora battalion, under Tiburcio Otero. I ordered the hunters 
to attack two pieces of artillery of the enemy. It was done successfully, and 
the enemy was repulsed in every direction. Our cavalry charged his lefc flank 
and routed it. Captain Fuentes, with a few men, took one of the pieces of artil- 
lery and two prisoners. The other piece of artillery was left on the field. 
Langberg, chief of the traitors, was killed in the fight. 

I then headed the cavalry to prevent the enemy from finding refuge in this 
city, and was successful in my attempt. 

The behavior of our men was admirable; our artillery was well managed and 
did good service. The enemy, of more than 1,000 men, was routed by 500 of 
ours, as many of our men could not participate. 

On the fifth we struck our tents and took possession of Guadalupe, where we 
remained till the night of the fourth. We had ten killed and eighteen wounded. 
The enemy had forty-two killed and many wounded, escaping to the mountains. 

On the morning of the fifth, the first and second Sonora and Juarez battalions, 
with two pieces of artillery, under Colonel Adolfo Alcantara, left Guadalupe and 
joined me the next day. 

We now determined to advance on the city, where there was a garrison of 



270 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

300 men under Teran y Barrios. We afterwards learned that Teran, Arvallo* 
and Tanori, overcome by fear, had taken to flight; so the imperialist band in 
Sonora evaporated like smoke from pure fright. 

An order for surrender was sent in, without humiliating conditions, but was 
refused, and at one o'clock the siege was begun. 

General Jesus G. Morales now came up with seventy men, and was received 
by shouts from us. He said he had shot Pioquinto Griego, one of the imperial 
partisans. 

The Gonzales battalion, under Salva, assaulted one of the forts, took it, and 
gained a. piece of artillery. He then marched on to another, but was unfortu- 
nately killed, with Colonel Rochin. Captain Joaquin Fuentes was badly 
wounded, as well as the second adjutant, Salvador Alvarez. Antonio Slanes 
and Roman Ruisanchez were killed at the same time. They were common 
soldiers. 

The next attack was on the fort called La Correccion by the second Sonora 
battalion under Otero, and the first under Colonel Salazar ; Colonels Davalos 
and Alcantara were to direct operations around the place. At this stage the 
enemy quit the Correccion and fired as he left, wounding Major Jesus Chaves. 

At one o'clock in the morning the enemy left in complete confusion. Those 
defending the Correccion were double traitors, because they left eighty men on 
the parapet, and they were captured; they also left three pieces of artillery, 
their ammunition, and one hundred mules. The enemy had forty killed, and 
lost one hundred and sixty prisoners. There were four foreigners among the 
killed. 

The morning of the sixth dawned to find no imperialists in the town. The 
capture of Ures cost us no great loss, but the lives of some valuable men, mostly 
belonging to the battalion of cazadores. I congratulate you on this extermina- 
tion of the so called imperial government in this State. 

I do not mean to say we are done, but the hardest work is over, and we may 
soon hope for a general peace in this State. 

Independence and liberty! Ures, September 7, 1S66. 

ANGEL MARTINEZ. 

The General in-Chief, Present. 

In having the honor to transmit this to your department, for the information 
of the President of the republic, I must say the officers and men of the united 
brigades behaved gallantly, and made themselves worthy the consideration of 
the government of the republic and the gratitude of the people of Sonora. I 
cannot particularize persons, because many were prevented from taking part in 
the combat. 

Independence and liberty! Ures, September S, 1866. 

I. PESQUIERA. 
J. F. AVILA, 

The War Department, in Chihuahua. Chief Officer. 



[Enclosure No. 8.] 
DEPARTMENT OF STATE, BRANCH OF WAR AND MARINE— SECTION FIRST. 

The citizen President of the republic has heard of the operations communi- 
cated in General Angel Martinez's despatch of the 7th, and sent to me on the 
Sth. He is pleased to hear of the defeat of Tanori and Langberg and the 
death of the latter, as well as of the capture of the city. The conduct of the 
chiefs, officers, and men who took part in the action is duly appreciated by the 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 2Y1 

supreme magistrate of the nation, and the importance of the triumph will tend 
to drive the traitors out of the State, and, perhaps, frighten them out of the re- 
public. Independence and liberty. Chihuahua, October 5, 1866. 

MEJIA. 

General Iuxacio Pesgiuiera, Governor and Military Commander 

of the State of Sonora, at Ures, for wherever he may be.) 



[Enclosure No. 9.] 

MEXICAN REPUBLIC — ARMY OF THE WEST — QUARTERS OF THE GENKRAL-1N- 

CHIEF. 

In order to beat the garrison of Palos Prietos, an outpost of Mazatlan, one 
mile distant, a few days ago I sent riflemen from the line of Urias and Piedra 
to harass the enemy at night in his position, so that, getting used to that sys- 
tem, he would become careless and suffer himself to be surprised. For that 
purpose I set out from Unionville, on the 10th, with the 1st and 2d infantry 
brigades, a part of the 4th, and some of the 5th and 6th cavalry. 

The bad state of the roads, caused by hard rains, deranged the preconcerted 
combination, and I determined to wait a day longer, covering my plan by 
shooting towards the town. At 2 o'clock on the morning of the 12th I sent a 
column of infantry, under General Domingo Rubi, with five pieces of mountain 
artillery and ammunition for it, to wait as a reserve. I then ordered another 
infantry column, under General Ascencion Oorrea, with the cavalry of Colonel 
E. Parra, to take a position between the port and Palos Prietos. Another in- 
fantry column, under General Manuel Marquez, was commanded to attack the 
front and right flank of the enemy in his fortified position. All these com- 
mands were faithfully executed, and the principal entrance of Palos Prietos 
was attacked by bayonets in the hands of the valiant soldiers of the above 
named columns. 

The rough ground, the darkness of the night, and the perfect knowledge the 
defenders had of their position, allowed all not killed to escape. Over 150 
killed were found upon the battle-field. On our side were 27 killed and 67 
wounded. Among those killed was Commander Legaspi, and other worthy 
officers, who perished gloriously mounting the enemy's parapets. I will send 
their names and those of the men killed, in a separate paper, as soon as the 
proper information is obtained. 

1 waited here for the enemy till convinced he would not come out, because 
expected aid had not arrived ; and knowing the gunboats would open upon us 
as soon as it was day, I retired a short distance, leaving Colonel Francis Tolentino 
to watch the enemy. He would not venture out of his trenches, but plied his 
artillery vainly upon us. Thinking if I retreated he would follow me, I ordered 
my forces to quarter at Venadillo, Higueras, and Urias. 

My Correa column was in the rear, and 70 Africans attacked it, till 100 
Jalisco cavalry and SO liberty guides came up to its aid. The former was com- 
manded by Colonel Simon Gutierrez, the latter by Colonel L. Pintado. The 
enemy fled before them, leaving 17 killed and one commandant and 17 Arab 
horses in our possession. On this account we may be assured the enemy lost, 
in killed and wounded, 200 men, mostly French, without counting one officei* 
and 20 men, mounted and armed, that came over to the republican side, bring- 
ing five traitors and one French sutler as prisoners, the last of which was shot by 
them. The enemy is badly demoralized ; so much so I think they will evacu- 
ate the port, for they seem to be making preparations now. 

As the French and traitors did not return in force to occupy Palos Prietcs, I 



272 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

ordered it to be garrisoned by some troops from this army corps, withdrawing 
the rest to their former positions. 

This I communicate to you for the information of the supreme magistrate of 
the nation. 

Independence and liberty. Villa de Union, September 14, I860. 

RAMON CARONA. 

The Minister of War and Marine, in Chihuahua. 



[Enclosure No. 10.] 
DEPARTMENT OF STATE, OFFICE OF WAR AND MARINE SECTION FIRST. 

The citizen President of the republic has received, with the greatest satisfac- 
tion, your despatch of the 14th to me, communicating the news of the glorious 
victory of the 12th, at Palos Prietos, one mile from Mazatlan, killing over 150 
of the enemy dead on the field, besides 18 cavalry that charged on the rear of 
the Degollado battalion, which was retiring to its quarters at Venadillo, Higue- 
ras, and Urias, as you ordered, with the hope of attacking the enemy again in 
the same fort, if he came back ; but seeing that he did not, on the other hand, 
concentrating along the line of the port, you ordered the troops of this army 
corps to occupy the fort permanently, and the rest to retire to their former posi- 
tions. 

Independence and liberty. Chihuahua, October 8, 1866. 

MEJIA. 

To General Ramon Corona, 

Chief of the Western Army Corps, at Villa de Union. 



[Enclosure No. 11.] 

Mazatlan, Mexico, September 19, 1S66. 

Since my last, matters in Sinaloa have been much the same as at my previ- 
ous dates, Coi*ona annoying the French in every way possible. From his bat- 
teries on Holderness island he easily threw shells into the town, which have 
done some little damage. To drive him from the Garita, the French troops 
were sent to occupy Palos Prietas, and Corona fell back to the Presidio On 
the 11th instant, however, the Mexicans surrounded the imperialists, drove 
them from their garrison, captured two guns, and held the works until the 
French were re-enforced from this city. 

In this battle, the most severe engagement they have yet had, the French 
lost 150 killed and wounded; the imperial Mexicans admit their loss to be 300; 
and it is said that Corona lost 250. After being so roughly handled, Palos 
Prietas was evacuated by the French, who retired to their fortification at Ma- 
zatlan. 

The Continental arrived to-day from Guaymas, bringing some important 
news from Sonora, which I give as I had it from a passenger : 

OCCUPATION OF HERMOSILLO. 

General Pesquiera occupied Hermosillo about the middle of August, where 
he was enthusiastically received. Colonel Fistier, commanding the French at 
Guaymas, left that city with his entire force on the 18th ultimo, to join Lan- 
berg and Tanori, and drive Pesquiera from Hermosillo. The heat was intense, 
and he lost several men by sun-stroke during the march. On his arrival at 
Hermosillo, on the 24th, he found that Pesquiera had left the day previous, 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 273 

with many wagons loaded with supplies, <&c. Lanberg and Tauori did not 
care to act in concert with the French, thinking the liberals were too strong to 
admit of an attack. The entire failure of the expedition from Guaymas, the 
loss of his men, and care and anxiety had so depressed Colonel Fistier that he 
put a pistol ball through his head to end his misery and disgrace. Colonel 
Fistier had been for some time in command of the French troops at Guaymas, 
and his gentlemanly conduct and conciliatory bearing had won him the esteem 
of every one. 

LIBERAL SUCCESSES. — CAPTURE OF URES. 

About the first of the month, General Martinez, of the liberal forces, marched 
to attack Ures, which was defended by Generals Lanberg and Tauori, the 
Yaqui Indians, who have of late been so successful iu their battles. 

The principal fight took place on the 4th instant, at Guadaloupe, a small 
town some eight leagues from Ures. It was very severely contested, but ended 
in the utter defeat and rout of the imperialists. Lanberg was killed, and Ta- 
uori escaped to Guaymas, where he arrived on the 10th, with about half a dozen 
men. It is said that when the death of Lanberg was reported to Martinez he 
discredited it, whereupon a Mexican soon rode up, dragging the body of the 
unfortunate general with his riata. The body was afterwards hung to a tree 
and death threatened any person who should cut it down. The same day Mar- 
tinez moved on to Ures, which was garrisoned by some three hundred men, 
who, ignorant of the fight at Guadaloupe, gave battle, and were utterly cut to 
pieces. No quarter was given, and the place was sacked by the soldiers. 

EVACUATION OF GUAYMAS. 

On the 11th instant, notice was given that Guaymas would be evacuated on 
the 13th, and that those of the inhabitants would be taken who chose to go. 
At the same, time, a fearful picture was drawn of the destruction of life and 
property that would ensue on the arrival of the liberals. 

Many of the poor people fled the place, and all of the French merchants 
took refuge onboard the ships-of-war. On the 13th, the transport Ehin and 
another vessel sailed, crowded with troops and passengers. Before leaving,- 
however, the French filled several boats with arms and ammunition for the- 
Yaqui Indians, telling them that after their departure the city would be at their 
(the Yaqui's) mercy, and that there was plenty of booty in it for them. The 
utmost consternation prevailed when the dastardly act was known in the city.. 
The Americans placed themselves under the orders of Consul Conner, a home- 
guard was organized, and every precaution taken against surprise. 

The house of the consul was crowded with people seeking protecHon, and 
his warerooms were filled with merchandise and personal effects. On the even- 
ing of the 14th instant the city was illuminated, and on the morning of the 
15th nearly half the houses were decorated with American flags. That same 
day, at 9 o'clock in the morning, General Martinez entered the city with a 
small body of cavalry — the greater portion of his force having been sent to 
clean out the Yaqui Indians. Soon after his arrival he took formal possessi m 
of the Plaza, and issued a proclamation guaranteeing protection in their per- 
sons and property to all who remained quietly at home, and denouncing iu 
strong terms the misrepresentations made by the French on their departure. 
Wonderful to relate, an American man-of-war was in the harbor — the Saranac 
having that morning arrived. When people were told of it, they would not 
credit it. "Tell us," said they, "that a man-of-war is here to protect us!" 
But really, is it not strange, that with all the American interest at stake in So- 
nora and Sinaloa, and Lower California, we have had no vessels here to look. 

IS MEX 



274 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

out for us ? There are enough on the coast, but the commanders find Panama 
and Acapulco, where they can get New York and San Francisco papers three 
times a month, in more need of their presence than we are. "That's what's 
the matter." 



EVACUATION OF GUAYMAS. 

[Enclosure No. 12.] 

Mazatlan, September 21, 1866. 
In giving you the news from this place I can only mention one or two occur- 
rences that I could flatter myself would, in the least degree, interest your 
numerous readers. First and most important is the evacuation of Guaymas by 
the French and imperial forces, which took place on the 12th instant, and the 
place was immediately occupied by the liberal forces. 

corona's movements. 

Next on the tapis comes the attack of Corona on the advanced positions of 
this place which took place on the night of the 11th or morning of the 12th, 
at 2\ a. m., by Corona advancing at the head of four thousand men to within a 
•quarter of a mile of Palos Prietas (a fortified palisade, about two miles from 
the Plaza,) and, under cover of the darkness, throwing about seven hundred 
men, under command of Colonels Grenados and Martinez, in the rear of the 
fort, thereby cutting off communication with the town, and at three o'clock a. m. 
a simultaneous attack Avas made on the rear, side and front of the south wing of 
the position, which, after three charges, was entered from the rear, Grenados 
taking one piece of artillery and gaining possession of the imperial magazine. 

At this critical moment for the small garrison, (commanded by Captain 
Delatask and composed of one hundred and eighty French and Mexican 
troops,) Captain Delatask called for volunteers to retake the piece, when Lieu- 
tenant Maire of the sixty-second French regiment, at the head of forty men, 
advanced to the charge at the point of the bayonet, and succeeded in reaching 
the cannon and cutting down those loading it, but he encountered so deadly a 
fire from all sides that he was compelled to retire ; but as it was life or death to 
the garrison, he again rallied, and, at the head of twenty-five men, succeeded 
this time in taking the piece and turning it on the enemy, when two companies 
from the north side being ordered to en-enforce him, they succeeded in clearing 
the works and steadily maintained their position, and keeping up a rapid dis- 
charge of musketry until re-enforcements under Commander Kobiero reached 
them from the city, (who had to fight their way to the place through the liberal 
forces there stationed, and did not reach their hotly pressed comrades until after 
four o'clock a. m.,) when the garrison continued to hold the enemy in check 
until the battalion of Cazadores and cavalry arrived and a general advance was 
made, driving the liberals back, and at ten o'clock all was over save random 
shooting. 

The utmost bravery is said to have been exhibited by both sides. Captain 
Delatask is highly spoken of for his coolness and bravery during so trying a 
time, keeping back by a handful of determined soldiers such a superior force. 
Lieutenant Maire is now enjoying the praise of all for his daring feats in facing 
almost certain death for the preservation of the garrison. Colonel Grenados, 
of the attacking party, is said to have had three horses and a mule killed under 
him, and several bullets pierced his clothing and beard, but he received no 
wound — a strange occurrence, as it is said of him he never was in a battle before 
without receiving from one to a half a dozen. In the advance of the imperial 
troops in the morning, the cha,?seurs d'Afrique, with their fine Arabians, were 
drawn into an ambuscade and were roughly hand'ed, losing some very valuable 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 275 

horses aud a good many men. Alonzo Ridley, an American, received a com- 
mission as captain in the imperial service, on the field of battle. 

AFTER THE BATTLE. 

The sight which met the eye of the beholder after the fight was horrible 
beyond description, most of the dead having been killed by the bayonet, sword, 
or machetas of the contending parties, and gave evidence with what desperation 
the defence had been made, when only massacre stared them in the face. 

MISCELLANEOUS. 

News from Guaymas gives account of the killing of General Langberg of 
the imperial army. 

City of Mexico papers announce the death of Frank Mullen, (an ex-officer 
of the confederate army, and since in command of Contra Guerrillas with 
Mejia,) at Cordova, of fever. 

Many are looking forward to the evacuation of this place by the imperialists, 
but considerable doubt is expressed as to it since the news of President John- 
son's proclamation in regard to blockading, and it is now thought by many that 
it will be held until the final evacuation of the country by the French. 



[Enclosure No. 13.] 

Consulate of the United States, 

Guaymas, September 11, 1S66. 

Sir : I have the honor to inform you that the evacuation of this port and the 
State of Sonora by the French squadron and land forces will take place on the 
14th instant. I have been officially informed of this fact by the admiral in 
command. The preparations for embarcation which have been going on for a 
iew days, and the fact of the withdrawal of these forces, have created a panic 
among the population, both native and foreign, and, in consequence, the steamer 
which leaves on the 13th for Mazatiau and San Francisco will be crowded be- 
yond her capacity. The French portion of the community, and Mexicans 
who have been compromised, or who have given support to the empire, are 
making every exertion to escape the almost certain retribution which awaits 
them at the hands of the incoming liberals. The meichauts and respectable 
families not compromised in these political difficulties, apprehending danger from 
the lower classes during the interim of the withdrawal of the French troops and 
the entering of the liberal forces have sought the protection of this consulate, 
as no one here appeared to be able to suggest or move in a plan to protect the 
place from rapine or murder. I informed the admiral and the commander of the 
place that I would communicate the fact and the time of the withdrawal of the 
troops to General Pesquiera, chief of the liberal forces of the State, in order that 
he might be ready to take possession immediately, and thereby guarantee order 
and security. With the approval of these officers I have despatched a messen- 
ger to General Pesquiera with this information aud with an appeal to his gener- 
osity in behalf of those who are threatened with ruin, and who are now preparing 
to flee the country. I trust his answer Avill be conciliatory and humane. The 
knowledge of the fact of my having communicated with Pesquiera has restored 
quiet to the place, and many hope yet to be able to remain in their homes. The 
steamer for San Francisco will leave on the 13th, when I may be able to report 
the city quiet again in the possession of the officers of the constitutional gov- 
ernment. 

I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

EDWARD CONNER. 

Hon. William H. Seward, 

Secretary of State, Washington City, D. C. 



276 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

No. 91. 

Mr. Scivard to Senor Romero. 

Department of State, 

Washington, December 8, 1866. 
Sir : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of 
the 25th ultimo, containing certain documents regarding the late military opera- 
tions iu the western military division of the Mexican republic, for which be 
pleased to accept my thanks. 

I avail myself of this opportunity to renew to you the assurances of my most 
distinguished consideration. 



WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 



Senor Don M. Romero, fyc., Sfc, fyc. 



No>. 4. 

MILITARY OPERATIONS OF THE CENTRAL DIVISION. 

List of Papers. 

92. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward, (with one enclosure) .April 24, 1866. 

93. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero - - July 7, 1866. 

94. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward, (with three enclosures) Aug. 22, 1866. 

95. Mr. Hunter to Mr. Romero Aug. 28, 1866. 

96. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward, (with one enclosure) Sept. 21, 1866. 

97. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero Sept. 24, 1866. 



No. 92. 

Senor Romero' to Mr. teward. 

[Translation.] 

Mexican Legation to the United States of America, 

Washington, April 24, 1866. 
Mr. Secretary : I have the honor to transmit to you, for the information of 
the government of the United States, a copy of a letter from General N. Regules, 
chief of the army of the centre, dated March 7, in Uruapam, and addressed to 
the President of the United States of Mexico, showing the state of affairs in the 
line of his command, and giving some details in relation to his last important 
victory over the interventionists at Magdalen Heights, in the State of Michoacan. 
I am pleased to have this opportunity to repeat to you, Mr. Secretary, the 
assurances of my most distinguished consideration. 

M. ROMERO. 
Hon. William H. Seward, fyc, §c, fyc. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 277 

[Enclosure., 1 

Uruapam, March 7, 1S66. 

Sir : By virtue of instructions from the government, through its commissioner, 
Don Pablo Haro, I was appointed chief of the republican army of the centre on 
the 27th day of last February. Feeling myself unqualified to till the position 
in which I had been placed, without deserving it, I accepted it, only to do my 
duty to the supreme government 

My first efforts will be to organize forces and regulate taxes, believing these 
to be my most important duties at first, because the want of arms is general in 
the State, and, in fact, all munitions of war are scarce. I believe the task will 
be hard; but I am determined to begin with the towns in Guanajuato, and in 
the first and second districts of Mexico; and for that purpose I have applied to 
many friends in those places who have always been faithful to the cause of lib- 
erty. I- have urged them to help us, and I think they will, for the greatest 
crime a republican can commit is to kneel to a feeble tyrant, so easy to be over- 
turned ; and I told them so. The invitation I made them involves a kind of 
accusation, but they are good patriots. 

I am sure that while the enemy's attention is attracted to places already in 
insurrection, I will be able to hoist the standard of liberty in my district, and 
maintain a defensive till other States can organize to aid me. 

The people of Michoacan have suffered immensely; they have not ceased to 
fight the invader since he first desecrated their soil, using every lawful means. 
This shows they are not wanting in patriotism, even in their greatest troubles, 
and, with a little aid, they would soon replant the banner of liberty in the heroic 
laud: If the government will furnish them with arms and pecuniary resources, 
this will be accomplished in less than two months, I can assure you. 

On the 20th of February last my first division and part of the second had an 
encouuter with the column of the traitor Ramon Meudez, of 2,500 men. The 
fight occurred on the Magdalen Heights, near this city. Our force was 1,500 
men, poorly armed and equipped, and without artillery; while the enemy had 
all the conveniences of warfare. They lost one cannon, all their ammunition, 
baggage, a large sum of money, and half of their forces. Our loss also was 
considerable. I am now hunting our scattered men and picking up the arms, 
&c, left by the enemy. They took a few prisoners from us, but we captured 
a large number of their infantry, with good muskets and bayonets. 

On the 23d of April last I applied to the government for honorary decora- 
tions for my brave chiefs, officers, and soldiers, who took the town of Godallos, 
defended by 350 Belgians and 50 traitors. It was not simply on account of 
the fact of taking the place that I asked the reward of honor, but on account of 
the peculiar circumstances under which it was done. From the 8th of April to 
the 11th my forces marched sixty leagues to assault Codallos, at six o'clock in 
the morning of that clay. We fought six hours and exhausted all the ammu- 
nition ; not a cartridge was left; but my braves charged bayonet, aud gained a 
complete victory. The chiefs and officers who fell on that day deserve the 
attention of the government, and I will send a list of their names to the proper 
department that they may be remembered. 

If the government is pleased to accord to my soldiers the reward I ask, I 
hope you will communicate its orders to me, and accept my sincere gratitude, 
with protests of respect and consideration. 

N. DE REGULES. 

Seiior Don Benito Juarez, 

President of the United States of Mexico. 

Washington, April 24, 1S66. 
A true copy : 

IGXO. MARISCAL, Secretary. 



278 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

No. 93. 

Mr. Seward to Senor Romero. 

Department ok State, 

Washington, July 7, 186G. 

Sir : I have to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of the 24th 
of April last, in which you transmit for the information of the government of 
the United States copy of a letter addressed to the President of the republic of 
Mexico by General N. Regules, commanding the army of the centre, with re- 
gard to certain military affairs in his command, and to beg of you to accept my 
thanks for the information. 

I embrace this opportunity to renew to you the assurances of my most dis- 
tinguished consideration. 



Senor Don M. Romero, fyc, fyc, §c. 



WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 



No. 94. 

Senor Romero to Mr. Seward. 
[Translation.] 

Mexican Legation in the United States of America, 

Washington, August 22, 1866. 

Mr. Secretary : I have the honor to transmit to you, for the information 
of the government of the United States, copies of two letters I received to-day 
from General Nicolas de Regules, chief of the central army of the republic, 
dated in San Antonio de las Huertas, the 16th of May last and the 7th of June 
following, which show the state of affairs on the centra! military division com- 
manded by General Regules, who has commanded that line, and specially the 
condition of things in the State of Michoacan. 

I also enclose you copies of portions of a letter from General Juan Alvarez, 
chief of the army of the south, dated in Providencia, State of Guerrero, the 29th 
of June last, containing some news from the army of the centre. 

I embrace the occasion to renew to you, Mr. Secretary, the assurances of my 
most distinguished consideration. 

M. ROMERO. 

Hon. William H. Seward, fa, fyc, fye. 



[Enclosure No. 1.] 

San Antonio de las Huertas, 

May 16, 1S66. 
Dear Sir : I wrote to you on the 3d of last month from this place, acknow- 
ledging the receipt of your despatches, and informing you of the condition of the 
army under my command, so that you might use your influence to induce the 
government of the republic to give me the aid necessary to carry out my plans. 
As important events have occurred in Michoacan since I wrote you, I will 
proceed to give you an account of them, hoping you will appreciate them prop- 
erly, and do your best to have the supplies I need so much sent to me. 






CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 279 

As the imperialists knew they would have a powerful enemy to their organi- 
zation as long as the army of the centre was permitted to exist, though reduced 
to a skeleton, determined to destroy it at all hazards; they, therefore, sent an 
expedition of six thousand men against our seven hundred naked, ill armed, and 
suffering soldiers. They came to the attack in three columns, perfectly organ- 
ized ; the plan of their campaign could not be better, for they could force me to 
fio-ht and destroy me, or compel me to fall back upon the State of Guerrero, with 
my ragged, starving, needy soldiers, where they would certainly perish of famine, 
as that country is entirely destitute of supplies. 

But the expedition failed, because the two columns of four thousand French 
had to go into the interior of the republic on account of defeats in the borders of 
the States of Jalisco and Guanajuata. Thus deserted, the traitors abandoned 
the towns they had occupied, and concentrated on a line they thought more easy 
of defence. 

My troops did not suffer as much as was expected, because I left the unhealthy 
situation where I had been camped, and moved to the enemy's rear with the 
cavalry, and continued to annoy him till my infantry had passed the Balsas 
river. I was pleased to see my men endure all sorts of hardships patiently, thus 
showing how patriots can suffer. 

So here we are again, after a march of one hundred leagues through a sickly 
and destitute country, and my forces have increased in numbers, thanks to 
General Alvarez, who gave me arms for them ; and my cavalry have improved, 
so we are almost ready to march upon the enemy. 

So you will see, Mr. Minister, I only want arms and means to place the cen- 
tral army in a respectable condition, and I hope you will try to procure me both. 
Your very obedient servant, 

N. DE REGULES. 

Minister Don Matias Romero, Washington. 

Washington, August 22, 1866. 
A true copy : 

E. D. MACIN, 2d Secretary. 



[Enclosure No. 2.] 

San Antonio ue las Huertas, 

June 7, 1866. 

Dear Sir : In reply to your two very acceptable letters of the 1st and 29th 
of April, which 1 only received yesterday, I must inform you that I received 
your others, with the official despatches, in due time, and answered them, and I 
hope the answers have reached you by this time. I spoke of my situation and 
my wants with great frankness in those letters, and begged you to use all your 
influence in procuring me aid, by writing to the government to give the neces- 
sary aid to the army of the centre, particularly if the loan has been effected. 

As I told you, I have continued to labor without ceasing to increase and or-, 
ganize my forces in spite of the great scarcity of resources with which I have to 
contend, and the want of arms and ammunition. 

The imperialists are so demoralized at the report of the withdrawal of the 
French army, and the certainty of no more aid from abroad, that I have no 
doubt I could vanquish them; but the interests intrusted to me are so sacred I 
will not risk it unless I have the elements to insure success. If the government 
will send me the aid I have asked I will attack at once; but I repeat to you 
that, even if I do not get it, I will not be discouraged, and will work on faith- 



280 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

fully and diligently ; and I trust my delay will not be attributed to any other 
causes than those I have mentioned. 

I hope you will continue to favor me with your letters, while I remain your 
respectful and obedient servant, 

N. DE RE GULES. 

Minister Don Matias Romero, Washington. 

Washington, August 22, 1866. 
A true copy : 

F. D. MACIN, 
Second Secretary of Legation. 



[Enclosure No. 3. ] 

La Providencia, June 29, 1866. 
Sir : General Diaz has left this place with eight hundred men from this state 
for Ohantla, a town in the state of Puebla, occupied by a band of traitors. I 
will write you the result of the expedition by the next mail. 

General Kegules remains at San Antonio de las Huertas reorganizing and col- 
lecting supplies to continue the campaign in Michoacan. I enclose you two 
papers which he requested me to send you. 
I remain your obedient servant, 

JUAN ALVAREZ. 
Mr. Matias Romero. 

Washington, August 22, 1866. 
A true copy : 

F. D. MAC IN, 
Second Secretary of Legation. 



No. 95. 

Mr. Hunter to Senor Romero. 

Department of State, 

Washington, August 28, 1866. 
Sir : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of 
the 22d instant, containing copy of two letters addressed to you by General Don 
Nicolas de Regules, and of portions of letters addressed to you by General Don 
Juan Alvarez, on tbe subject of the military affairs of the republic of Mexico, 
for which be pleased to accept my thanks. 

I avail myself of this occasion to renew to you the assurances of my most 
distinguished consideration. 

W. HUNTER. 
Seiior Don M. Romero, fyc, fyc, fyc. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 281 

[No. 96.] 

SeJior Romero to Mr. Seward. 

[Translation.] 

Mexican Legation in the United States of America, 

Washington, September 21, ]SC6. 
Mr. Secretary ad interim : I have the honor to transmit to you, for the 
information of the government of the United States?, a copy of a letter I re- 
ceived to-day from General Nicolas Regales, chief of the army of the ceutre of 
the Mexican republic, dated in the city of Zitacuaro the 12rh of July last, 
giving particulars of the state of affairs in the part of the country occupied by 
the army of the centre. 

I am pleased to have this occasion to renew to you, sir, the assurances of my 
distinguished consideration. 

M. ROMERO. 

Hon. Frederick W. Seward, fyc, Sfc, fyc. 



[Enclosure.] 

Zitacuaro, July 12, 1866. 

Much Esteemed Sir : I hereby acknowledge the receipt of the documents, 
relating to the withdrawal of the French from Mexican territory, which you had 
the kindness to send me with your circular of the 26th of April last. 

You cannot imagine my satisfaction at learning that the United States had 
favored us with their protection, without any solicitation on our part, and that 
now we have no fear of a difficulty with that neighboring nation, ou that 
account. 

I am particularly pleased with this act of our government, because we are 
exempt from all blame and must appear worthy before the world. 1 commend 
you for your participation in the act, and heartily congratulate you on it ; and 
I hope you will make my sentiments in regard to it known to the government. 

As I presume you have received my former letters and documen:s, mention- 
ing my movements, I will confine myself in this to the most recent events in 
the army under my command. 

1 remained in San Antonio de las Huertas more than a month, organizing and 
drilling the forces that form the basis of the army corps under my command ; 
but as it was very sickly there, and the supplies were nearly exhausted, I de- 
termined to make a raid upon this place, from the good accounts I had of it. I 
effected this on the 1st instant, without opposition, the enemy having evacuated 
it on my approach, and fallen back to Anganguco and Maravatio. 

As my force and ammunition are not sufficient to allow me to attack the two 
places, I remain here. The neighboring towns are armed, and are determined 
to defend themselves, even if 1 have them. Cavalry companies are organizing 
in the districts of Tacambaro and Ario, and are busy annoying the enemy. 

The district of Apatzigan, once not very friendly, lias now arisen in our favor. 
This change has been made by the good conduct of the new chief I sent there, 
assisted by the death of Julian Espinoza, the head traitor, who was killed in 
fight at Tancitaro. 

There are more than two hundred cavalry, and one hundred infantry arming 
in Quiroga; and, in fact, they are striving for independence in every part of the 
State. 



282 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

I also take pleasure in informing you that the States of Jalisco, Guanajuato 
and Toluca are daily increasing the number of defenders of independence. I 
heard yesterday that a movement was making against the invader in Tenon- 
cingo and other places under my protection, and that some imperialists took 
part in it. Encouraged by these proceedings, I only wait till my forces are 
organized and equipped to commence an expedition, the result of which I will 
make known to you, whenever it occurs. 

From what I have already written you, the trouble I have had in organizing 
my forces must be known to you ; and now I only ask you to do what you can 
to assist me. 

In the mean time I remain your friend and obedient servant, 

N. DE REGULES. 

Minister Matias Romero. 

"Washington, September 21, 1S66. 
A true copy : 

IGNACIO MARISCAL, Secretary. 



[No. 97.] 

Mr. Seward to Senor Romero. 

Department of State, 

Washington, September 24, 1866. 
Sir : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your note of the 21st 
instant, transmitting a copy of a letter received by you on the 20th from the 
chief of the army of the centre of the Mexican republic, in relation to the situa- 
tion of affairs in the part of the country occupied by that army. 

While thanking you for the information thus communicated, I avail myself of 
the opportunity to tender to you, sir, a renewed assurance of my high conside- 
ration. 

WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 
Seiior Matias Romero, fyc, fyc, fyc. 



No. 5. 

MILITARY OPERATIONS OF THE EASTERN DIVISION. 
List of papers. 

98. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward, (with eight enclosures) June 10, 1866. 

99. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero July 7, 1 866. 

100. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward, (with seven enclosures) 3\\\y 13, 1866. 

101. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero July 19, 1S66. 

102. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward, (with six enclosures) Oct, 6, 1866. 

103. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero Oct. 12, 1866. 

104. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward, (with five enclosures) Oct. 21, 1S66. 

105. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero Dec. 26, 1866. 

106. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward, (with eight enclosures) Nov. 20, 1S66. 

107. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero Nov. 30, 1 866. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 



283 



No. 98. 

Senor Romero to Mr. Seward. 

[Translation.] 

Mexican Legation in the United States of America, 

Washington, June 10, 1866. 

Mr. Secretary : I have the honor to transmit to you, for the information of 
the government of the United States, copies of documents specified in the an- 
nexed index, showing the condition of affairs at latest dates in the oriental mili- 
tary division of the Mexican republic. 

I accept the opportunity to repeat to you, Mr. Secretary, the assurances of 
my most distinguished consideration. 

M. EOMERO. 

Hon. William H. Seward, Sfc., fyc, fyc. 



Index of documents sent by the Mexican legation in Washington to the Depart- 
ment of State of the United States, with the note of this date, in relation to 
occurences on the oriental line. 



No. 


Date. 


1 


1866. 
May 16 


2 


May 16 


3 


May 15 


4 


May 15 


5 


May 15 


6 


May 15 


7 


May 15 



Address. 



Contents. 



General Garcia to Mr. Romero 

General Garcia to the President 

General Garcia to the minister of war. 

General Garcia to the minister of war. 
General Garcia to the minister of war. 
General Garcia to the minister of war. 
General Garcia to the minister of war. 



Transmitting correspondence to be 

forwarded. 
A statement of recent events on the 

eastern line. 
Saying' the line south of Vera Cruz 

was invaded on the 24th of March 

last, and explaining- the situation 

of affairs. 
Official report of the victory at To- 

nala, in the State of Tobasco. 
Official report of the victory of Say- 

altepec, by General Figueroa. 
Official report of General Diaz on the 

victory of Janultepec. 
News of General Diaz's victory at 

Putla, in the State of Oaxaca. 



Washington, June 10, 1866. 



IGNO. MARISCAL, Secretary. 



[Enclosure No. 1.] 

Amatlan, May 16, 1S66. 

Sir : I received lately, after much delay, the duplicate of yours of the 3d of 
January last, which now needs no answer, and your acceptable letter of the 9lh 
of April last. 

Our friend General Baranda must have shown you my letter of the 2d instant, 
reporting the state of affairs here, and by the one I send to-day for the Presi- 



284 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

dent, which you will please forward to him when you have read it, you will he 
informed of the present condition of our affairs, which is not so bad as might be. 
I am glad to hear that things are going on well in your region. 
Your most obedient and attentive servant, 

ALEJANDRO GARCIA. 
Don Matias Romero, fyc, fyc, fyc. 

Washington, June, 1S66. 
A true copy : 

IGNO. MARISCAL, Secretary. 



[Enclosure No. 2. ] 

Amatlan, May 15, 1S66. 

Sir : My fears, so often expressed to you, have been realized. As you will 
see in my official note of to-day to the minister of war, this coast was invaded 
after the 24th of March last, and from that time till now I have had to contend 
with a thousand difficulties in its defence. I have needed forces ; I have been 
in want of arms, because I could get them at no price here, and our minister in 
Washington could not send me any, though often requested; and so I have not 
been able to escape from the false position in which I am placed. 

Fortunately the enemy has committed errors, and was compelled to disband 
the forces brought to Tlicotalpam. Thanks to the patriotism of the inhabitants, 
to the bravery of my chiefs and soldiers, to our constant efforts in overcoming 
obstacles, our present position is not bad, and I have good hopes that the na- 
tional arms will once more triumph in this line, if fortune does not desert us 
hereafter. 

The enemy has the advantage over us in cannons and other elements of war, 
as long as he remains on a plain bounded by a large river; but it cannot be said 
that his situation is excellent, because the courage of our soldiers makes up for 
want of munitions, and we have absolutely penned the enemy in the town of 
Tlacotalpam, where he has to hide in his trenches. All the inhabitants have 
gone to the surrounding towns and villages, so the enemy has nobudy to govern 
there. All the approaches have been cut off by land or water ; and as the water 
of the river in front of the town is salt, they have to drink that or the dirty 
well-water. Steamers cannot come down the river, for our forces attack them 
from the banks. We have forces on the road from Tlacotalpam to Alvarado, 
that fire on every boat that passes on the river, so none but war steamers can 
now go up or down. On the banks of the river opposite Tlacotalpam we have 
forces to annoy the enemy with cannons and rifles; and on the west of the town, 
where our encampment is situated, we harrass the enemy seriously. I assure 
you we give him no time to sleep or rest, and I am told he is becoming desperate. 
Mariano Camacho is at the head of the hostile forces in Tlacotalpam, resisting 
all these annoyances. It seems he is determined to hold out to the last and 
perish under the ruins of the city. It is now rumored he will soon receive orders 
to withdraw, and I think he will have to give up at any rate, even if the 
rainy season, now beginning, does not compel us to quit the low grounds we 
now occupy. 

Fortunately on other parts of the ine we are doing well. Peace prevails in 
Tabasco and Chiapas despite the reports of an invasion from Yucatan. There 
is no probability of it now, however, and you will see by my report of to-day 
to the minister of war that our forces, on the 17th ultimo, recovered the district 
of Tonala from the imperialists. You will also see an account of the late vie- 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 285 

tories of General Diaz and Figueroa, at Mexteca and Sayalpec ; these, think, 
will induce the evacuation of Tlacotalpam. 

I have no time for more, but remain yours truly, 

ALEJANDRO GARCIA. 
Senor Don Benito Juarez, 

President of the Mexican Republic. 

Washington, June — , 1865. 
A true copy : 

IGNO. MARISCAL, Secretary. 



[Enclosure No. 3.] 
MEXICAN REPUBLIC — HEADQUARTERS OF THE EASTERN LINE. 

On the 24th of March last, after many rumors of invasion in the line south of 
Vera Cruz, said to be formidable aud commanded by General Count Thun, four 
large and one small French steamers appeared befored Tlacotalpam, and a force 
of infantry and artillery came from Omealca, the number of which I could not 
ascertain at the time. I have never had enough forces to resist an invasion, and 
have constantly been in need of arms. This was well known to the government, 
for I applied to the President of the republic frequently, since May of last year, 
to send me arms, as I could not get them here. So fearing to be overpowered 
by the enemy, and hemmed in, as I was, on the left bank of the Papaloapam by 
steamers and laud forces, I determined to cross the river, which I did on the 
25th of March, with all the forces 1 had scattered about Estanguela, Cosanialoa- 
pam and Tlacotalpam. This was fortunate, as the enemy's land forces reached 
Cosamaloapam on the 26th, and steamers began to ply on the river below Tlaco- 
talpam ; and if we had not crossed when we did we could not have crossed after- 
wards. 

I formed a line of defence on the right bank of the Papaloapam, from Cha- 
caltianguiz to Santiago Tuxtla ; one column of infantry on the right, and one at 
San Nicolas, as a central point ; another as a reserve in Nopalapam, with the 
cavalry in front, ready for any movement of the enemy if he should pursue me 
in my retreat. 

The forces of Acayucam and Minatitlan remained in their cantons, to prevent 
an incursion of the enemy on that side, and those to the north of this coast re- 
mained in their positions to defend us from a flank movement. 

My line of defence thus established, I set to work, making use of every 
mode of defence. Fifteen days passed and the enemy did not appear. Learn- 
ing that he had only 1,200 men in Tlacotalpam, and that a number of them had 
been sent to Vera Cruz, I recrossed the Papaloapam and fixed my headquarters 
in this town, extending my forces from San Geronimo to Cosamaloapam, and 
began to harass the enemy, now fortified in Tlacotalpam. 

I next moved my camp to a place two leagues to the west of that city, out 
of the reach of the gunboats that might come up the river to bombard it. 

All my forces are now in this camp, except those of Cocinte, Minatitlan and 
Acayucam ; and we constantly annoy them in the town. Now the enemy is 
confined to the town limits. 

I wish to force an evacuation of the place, without risking an assault, as four 
steamers are anchored in front of the town to defend it. 

But if the rainy season comes on, and the enemy has not left the town, I 
shall be compelled to attack it, as it is the only place the water docs not cover 
during the rains ; and as all the inhabitants have left, I must retake it and let 
them return to their homes. 



286 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

It is scarcely necessary to tell you I have not the elements for a war of this 
kind, because you know it already ; but fate has placed me here and I must as- 
sume the responsibility. If I fail it will not be by my fault, for I have asked aid 
of the government more than once. But fortune must favor the patriotism, the 
self-denial, and bravery of the loyal Mexicans I have under my command. 

Independence and liberty ! Headquarters in Amatlan, May 15, I860. 

ALEJANDRO GARCIA) 

The Minister of War, at El Paso del Norte. 

Washington, June 10, 1866. 
A true copy : 

IGNO. MARISCAL, Secretary. 



[Enclosure No. 4.] 
MEXICAN REPUBLIC — HEADQUARTERS OF THE EASTERN LINE. 

Citizen Minister : On the 17th of last month the governor and military 
commander of the State of Tabasco wrote me as follows : 

"It is four o'clock in the afternoon, and the garrison of Tonata has sur- 
rendered at discretion after an obstinate contest, with a guarantee of life and 
liberty. Unfortunately the victory was not gained without a struggle ; we 
lost several men and officers. I will report the number of killed and wounded 
as soon as it can be ascertained. In granting life and liberty to the enemy, I 
think I have acted in accordance with Mexican clemency and generosity, but if 
there is anything else against me, I am ready to repel the charges. I have the 
honor to rejoice with you over this victory, which gives us an important place, 
with its artillery, arms, munitions and other necessaries. Accept the assurance 
of my appreciation and respect." 

I have the honor to transmit this communication for the information of the 
President of the republic, felicitating him upon this new honor to the valiant 
sons of Tabasco, whom I have already ordered to be thanked, in the name of 
the supreme government, for this brilliant feat of arms. 

Independence and liberty ! Amatlan, May 15, 1866. 

ALEJANDRO GARCIA. 



The Minister of War. 
A true copy : 



Washington, June 10, 1866. 
IGNO. MARISCAL, Secretary. 



[Enclosure No. 5.] 
MEXICAN REPUBLIC-— HEADQUARTERS OF THE EASTERN LINE. 

Citizen Ministeu : Citizen General Luis P. Figueroa writes me from Say- 
altepec, April 27, as follows : 

" Long live the republic ! Twelve hundred Austrians and traitors, with two 
four-pound rifled cannons and three twelve-pound mountain howitzers, came 
within my lines as far as Sayaltepec on the 30th of March last. After a severe 
battle of six hours they were defeated, and they retreated to Tocatlan, where 
they were harassed by our troops till re-enforcements joined them with muni- 
tions. On the 23d they attacked us again, but had to retreat with many killed, 
wounded, and missing, as in the battle of the 30th. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. ^287 

" They returned on the 25th, marched out their best troops, and offered battle. 
They were again repulsed after cannonading us for five hours. On this occa- 
sion, as on the others, their loss was considerable. 

"We collected ninety rifles, ten muskets, three cornets ; sixty killed, fifteen 
prisoners, and nine wounded. Oar loss was slight." 

I transmit this communication to you for the information of the President of 
the republic. 

Independence and liberty ! Headquarters in Amatlan, May 15, 1866. 

ALEJANDRO GARCIA. 
The Citizen Minister of War, Paso del Norte. 

Washington, June 10, 1866. 
A true copy : 

IGNO. MAR1SCAL, Secretary. 



[Enclosure No. 6. ] 
MEXICAN REPUBLIC — HEADQUARTERS OF THE EASTERN LINE. 

Citizen Minister: General Porfirio Diaz, chief of this line, under date of 
the 30th of April last, writes me as follows : 

" I have the honor to inform you that, on my arrival at Jamiltepec, the 
enemy, to the number of more than seven hundred men, with two pieces of ar- 
tillery, having heard of my coming, left the place. I immediately ordered Gen- 
eral Leyva in pursuit, and, although he did not succeed in overtaking him, he 
collected more than four hundred arms and much ammunition. I also ordered 
the prefect of Jamiltepec to gather up whatever the enemy had left aloiur the 
road." & 

I transmit this communication to you for the information of the President of 
the republic. 

Independence and liberty ! Amatlan, May 15, 1866. 

ALEJANDRO GARCIA. 



The Citizen Minister of War. 
A true copy : 



Washington, June 10, 1S66. 
IGNO. MARISCAL, Secretary. 



[Enclosure No. 7.] 
MEXICAN REPUBLIC — HEADQUARTERS OF THE EASTERN LINE. 

Citizen Minister : General Luis P. Figueroa, in a private letter of the 28th 
of April last, writes me as follows : 

" Since my last letter of this date, in relation to General Porflrio Diaz, I have 
seen another, dated the 14th instant, in Putla, the tenor of which is as follows : 

'Putla, April 14, 1866. 
« As I said, I began my operations in Mistecas. To-day I took possession of 
Putla, surprising (he enemy, who made no resistance The Spaniard Ceballos 
was at the head of the forces on a hill. I ordered a part of my cavalry to at- 
tack them, which was done, routing them completely, and pursuing them till 
dark. We took seventy rifles, twenty -one muskets, thirty lances, and forty 



288 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

horses with saddles from the enemy. He had seventeen killed and lost twenty- 
three prisoners. As I have no time, you will please forward this to General 
Garcia.' 

" I send you this for the purpose above mentioned." 

I have the honor to make the above communication to you for the information 
of the government, which will no doubt be pleased to hear of the progress of 
General Diaz, whom the enemy has so often destroyed. 

Independence and liberty ! Headquarters in Amallan, May 15, 1866. 

ALEJANDRO GARCIA. 

The Citizen Minister of War, Paso del Norte. 

Washington, June 10, 1S66. 
A true copy : 

IGNO. MARISCAL, Secretary. 



No. 99. 

Mr. Seward to SeTwr Romero. 

Department of State, 

Washington, July 7, 1866. 
SlR : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of 
the 10th ultimo, transmitting, for the information of the government of the 
United States, certain information with regard to affairs on the oriental line of 
the Mexican republic, for which be pleased to accept my thanks. 

I avail myself of this opportunity to renew to you the assurances of my 
most distinguished consideration. 

WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 
Seiior Don Matias Romero, fyc, fyc, fyc 



No. 100. 

Se/ior Romero to Mr. Seward. 
[Translation.] 

Mexican Legation in the United States of America, 

Washington, July 13, 1866. 

Mr. Secretary : I have the honor to transmit to you, for the information of 
the government of the United States, the copy of a letter I received from Gen- 
eral Diaz, chief of the oriental line of the Mexican republic, dated at Tlapa the 
9th of May last, informing me of the military operations of the forces under his 
command in the State of Oaxaca, together with the copy of a communication dated 
the 15th of June last, and addressed by General Garcia, second in command on 
the same line, from Amatlan, to the minister of war and marine of the Mexican 
republic, informing him of the movements recently taken place on the southern 
coast of the State of Vera Cruz, and chiefly in front of Tlacotalpam, now held 
by the French. I also enclose the two reports to which the said communication 
refers. 

I am pleased to have this occasion of renewing to you, Mr. Secretary, the as- 
surances of my most distinguished consideration. 

M. ROMERO. 

Hon. William H. Seward, fyc., fyc, fyc. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 289 

[Enclosure No. I.] 

Tlapa, May 9, 1866. 

Much Esteemed Friend: Your letters of the 22d of February and 23d of 
March last have just reached me, and inform me of the good aspect of our affairs 
in that country. They also tell me of your inability, up to the latest dates, to 
raise the means I so much need to effectual service. I wish to quit the skirm- 
ishing in which I am engaged as a pastime, but to operate on a great scale 
requires money; for without it, the men I can raise are of no service. 

I have also- received the government orders making me commander-in-chief 
of the eastern line, a proof of confidence I will remember with pleasure. I 
cannot say much about our situation here. When orders reached me I could 
have crossed to the other side of the State (Oaxaca,) but as the enemy has only 
one point to watch, he could bring all his forces upon me, and as skirmishing 
did some good, I determined to remain here to wait for supplies, so that I could 
cross over with some advantage. So if the enemy attempts to move, we can 
threaten him and hold him in check. 

There is another reason : I could have more resources and elements of war in 
those towns, but the men are not so fit for service; being further south, they 
wish to fight in their own sectious. As the resourses are on that side, and the 
men on this, it is best to divide them. If I can do it, I will take men from 
Mixteca, the valley of Puebla, and Tlaxcaia, who are disposed and can place 
confidence in me. If I cannot get means from you, Garcia, or elsewhere, I 
shall have to give up my plans and cross the State and do the best I can. 

I will give you some brief details of my late operations. After my return to- 
the coast from Mixteca, which I did in good order, though the enemy followed 
me closely, I changed my base of operations. One column followed me from' 
Mixteca, and learning that another was coming from Sola and Juquila, I hur- 
ried and reached Pinotepa before them. There I stopped till both columns- 
united, and then I went to Lo de Loto, where I waited for the enemy till the 
25th of February. He succeeded in scattering my advance, and not one man 
got back to camp, and the first thing I knew the enemy was in front of me. I 
effected a retreat, moviug to Ometepec and leaving my cavalry under the com- 
mand of General Leysoa, with orders to cover our march. That incident inter- 
rupted my plans. 

The enemy's cavalry attacked us twice and were repulsed both times. I lost 
one officer, Manuel Alberto, in the skirmish, killed three of the enemy, wounded 
many, and took one prisoner. 

I got some supplies in Ometepec and marched hurriedly to Janieltepec. The 
enemy was surprised to hear I was a day's journey in a direction different from 
what he thought. I suddenly countermarched towards his base of operations, 
and attacked him with such success we captured 232 muskets and some ammu- 
nition. 

On the 14th of April I marched to Putla with a small force and routed a de- 
tachment of 200 men. On the 25th I gathered all the enemy left, secured trans- 
portation for the booty, and went on the next day to Tlajiaco. The garrisons 
of that place, Tastlahuaca, and Huajuapaua, had gone to Teposcohila. I ad- 
vanced to Tolomecal, which the enemy had left for Tantuezlan. They heard of 
my movements in Oaxaca, and the enemy was re-enforced. I then counter- 
marched to Tlajiaco, to surprise the Austrian garrison, but it had retired and 
joined the main body of the army. 

My movement upon Tlajiaco produced the good effect of calling the enemy's 
attention in that direction, supposing I was going to attack in force, and General 
Leysoa reached his place of destination in safety. 

I think to remain here some days to rest my troops and equip others with 
the arms I took from the enemy, and do other things which I need not mention. 
19 Mex 



290 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

My great trouble is want of means. I am invited by all the towns, that offer 
me men and the arms the empire has furnished them, but I have no money to 
pay them, and I prefer the small force I have. If I had means I could enlarge 
my force and rnarch where there are wealthy traitors, and make them pay the 
expenses of this war. My expenses are small; my soldiers only get twelve 
cents a day, and often less, and the officers serve without pay. 

Some advise me to levy forced loans upon the towns, but I do not think it 
best ; extortion is contrary to my nature, Avhatever Forey may say to the 
contrary. 

I have had the last government decrees published. The first, prolonging the 
presidency, was very favorably received. I have not mentioned this to you be- 
fore, because I considered it my duty to obey or resign. The plan seems to me 
not only the best, but the only one to be adopted. 

The decree for the prosecution of General Ortega and other officers like him 
is in accordance with the rules and practices of the army I believe in the rigor 
■of martial law, and I think the government has done exactly right. 

I beg you will continue your favors, while I remain your friend and servant 

PORFIRIO DIAZ. 

Seiior Don Mateo Romero, WasJiington. 

Washington, July 13, 1S66. 
A true copy : 

IGNO. MARISCAL, Secretary. 



[Enclosure No. 2.] 

MEXICAN REPUBLIC — HEADQUARTERS OF THE EASTERN LINE — SECOND GEN- 
ERAL-IN-CHIEF. 

Amatlan, June 15, 1S66. 
.The certified copies of the reports of the chief advancing on Tlacotalpam, 
which I enclose to your department, will inform you of the principal movements 
against the enemy holding that place taken place since my last communication, 
in which I informed you of its occupation by the imperial forces and five French 
war vessels, and of our encampment at Mototepec, only two leagues from that 
•city, where our forces now are and will remain some time. 

You will see by the last report that our camp has been moved from Mototepec 
because the enemy was re-enforced in Tlacotalpam, and their gunboats prevent 
us from attacking the place. They bombarded us on the 6th, and destroyed a 
number of houses, doing much damage to the inhabitants. 

Another reason for our move is, the rainy season has begun, and the marsh- 
lands of Tlacotalpam are not healthy, and we were compelled to go to some 
higher region till the rainy season is over. After a rest in a more healthy 
iregion we may attaek the enemy with more courage, and perhaps succeed in 
driving him from Tlacotalpam, the only place he has been allowed to hold in 
;the line of my command. 

I communicate this for the information of the President of the republic. 

ALEJANDRO GARCIA. 

The Minister of War and Marine. 

Washington, July 13, 1S66. 
A .true copy .: 

IGNO. MARISCAL, Secretary. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 291 



[Enclosure No. 3.] 

MEXICAN REPUBLIC — ADVANCED SECTION ON TLACOTALPAM — COLONEL-1N- 

CH1EF. 

Citizen General : Yesterday morning, at eight o'clock, the enemy, to the 
number of two hundred infantry and cavalry, sallied out of the city upon our 
advance, trying to surprise Commander Eulalio Vela, who was in ambush to 
watch the enemy hunting cattle. The consequence was a conflict which resulted 
in our favor, though Commander Vela had but one hundred men of both kinds. 

The enemy fled in haste, leaving their dead in our hands. 

When the skirmish began I moved with a column to threaten Fort Hornos. 
The enemy came out, but soon retreated with the loss of three men and four 
horses. 

Commander Vela, whose bravery on this occasion corresponded with his 
reputation, received three bullet wounds, but did not leave the field till the 
enemy was driven back to his trenches. Lieutenant Lili was also wounded on 
an occasion that makes him worthy of recommendation. We had but two of 
our men killed, while the enemy paid dearly for his audacity. As soon as I 
heard Commander Vela was wounded, I sent Colonel Pablo Diaz to his aid. 
We buried sis of the enemy found killed in the camp he had deserted. We also 
got three horses, fourteen percussion rifles, one sabre, harness, and some very 
bad provisions. We released two prisoners that had been forced into the ene- 
my's ranks. We learned from spies that the enemy had sixteen wounded. 

On this occasion the gunboats could be of no service to the land forces because 
they were too far off, and the French marines despise the land forces and show 
contempt for them. 

This I communicate to you for your information, congratulating you on the 
happy event that once more proves the valor and resolution of our troops. 

Independence and liberty ! Camp near Tlacotalpam, May 25, 1866. 

FRANCISCO CARREON. 

The Second Ceneral-in Chief of the Eastern Line, at Amatlan. 



I certify to the above copy 



Amatlan, June 15, 1866. 
J. A. RUIZ, Secretary. 



[Enclosure No. 4.] 

MEXICAN REPUBLIC — HEADQUARTERS OP THE EASTERN LINE — SECOND GEN- 
ERAL-IN-CHIEF. 

Citizen Minister : Colonel Francisco Carreon, chief of the advance on 
Tlacotalpam, reported to me yesterday from the vicinity of that city as follows : 

"Citizen General: Having fixed upon a plan with Lieutenant Colonel Diaz 
y Lagos to attack the enemy in his lines, that officer marched with his section at 
daybreak along the river and began the battle. He was received with artillery 
and musketry, yet his brave men charged with the shout of viva la republica, 
and drove the enemy from his trenches. The rangers then made an attack on 
the other side and succeeded in the object of their attack. Colonel Diaz y 
L^igos, having effected his design, retired without being molested. That brave 
officer and his valiant subordinates have demonstrated the true courage of the 
soldiers on the eastern line. When the firing had ceased in the direction of 
Ribera I attacked Fort Hornos with equal success. Lieutenant Colonel Ariza 



292 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN' MEXICO. 

at the head of a column composed of the second Zaragoza battalion and the 
Gosamaloapan, charged bayonets upon the eueiny. who, however, held his posi- 
tion for a short time, and then suddenly fled to the city. 

•• Daring these skirmishes there were many personal fights of great honor to 
the republican soldiers. I then came to Lieutenant Colonel Ariza's aid with 
my Acayucam company, to drive the haughty imperialists from the heights, 
whence they kept up a continued fire. The fight continued vigorously, and 
many houses along the river caught fire and were consumed. While our men 
v.cre winning fadeless laurels I sent a company to the other side of the town 
and it accomplished what I wanted. 

"At five in the afternoon I returned to my camp, after destroying fort Homos. 
My losses are detailed in annex Xo. 1. 

•• I cannot say what was the enemy's loss, but we buried eleven bodies, and 
from traces of blood many wouuded must have been carried off. 

•• All my officers and men did their duty, but I must particularize the brave 
conduct of Captain Jose Maria Iglesias. with Ariza's forces, who tell bravely 
with sword in hand. He had the tribute of funeral honors, as mentioned in 2 
and 3. The gallant conduct of Lieutenant Colonels Ariza and Diaz, as well as 
that of the ranger commanders and other officers, commend them to the gratitude 
of the nation." 

I communicate the above, with great respect, for your int'orination, and in 
just eulogy to Colonel Carreon and the brave Mexicans who fought with him at 
Tlacotalpam, in defence of national independence. 

The body of Captain Iglesias was buried to-day, with due honors, in the prin- 
cipal chinch, where the shade of his glorious memory will ever repose. 

The Tnxtla national guards joined in the fight, aud did good service on the 
opposite side of the river. I have not yet had the report of its colonel, Lar- 
ranaga. Honor and glory to the brave Mexicans who have on this occasion 
sacrificed themselves for their country. 

Independence and libertv ! Amatlan. June 3, 1S66. 

ALEJANDRO GARCIA. 

The Military Commander of 

Amatlan, June 15, 1866. 

A certified copy : 

J, A. RUIZ, Secretary. 



[Enclosure Xo. 5. J 
MEXICAN REPUBLIC FORCES NEAR TLACOTALPAM COLON EL-IX-CHIEF. 

Citizen General : Last night I heard the enemy had formed a new line of 
fortifications not far from the first, and I immediately determined to drive him 
out of them. So, with Colonel Diaz Lagos aud Captain Jimenez. I took a 
position on the Casemate road, leaving a small force to protect the camp aud 
baggage. At daylight Captain Jimenez attacked Puente Garcia, and was met 
bv the enemy's artillery and rifles. Colonel Diaz then came up, and drove the 
enemv back into the town. Xext, Captain Lauro C'audiani, Lieutenant Albino 
R eves, and Prudencio Martinez, surrounded the town. I theu sent out two 
companies of rangers, under Perez and Eohoso, to attack Teran. Captain Alonzo 
also came up with his cavalry. All these forces charged the enemy at once, 
and drove him back some distance. As the enemy's cannonade was continuous, 
I sent Captain Bossa out with one company of the Zaragoza battalion to take 
then; guns, while Colonel Ariza was to command all our forces. My right wing 






CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 1 [ . 

was well protected bv cavalry, and my left was sustained by Lieutenant Zamndio 
and Barreiro, wi"h a Minatitlan company. I s: iti my line of r - arv in the 

main road, and took a position with ray own men at Horn -. rhis was sei : :-ely 
effected when a brisk fire began on both sides. One of the French steamers 
then besan to bombard the town ; many houses were knocked down, and the 
thatched ones were bnrned. The spectacle at this moment was sad and im- 
posing ; the bells of St. Michael's church, occupied by our soldiers, ringing 
strangely in contrast with the sight of burning houses 

The enemy had now retreated to their last iutrenchments, and the object of 
our attack being gained, I ordered our forces to beat a retreat. 

Our losses are detailed in Xo. 1. Ribera street, and the streets around St. 
Michael's church, were strewn with dead bodies of the en 

All the troops of this section behaved gallantly, so I can give no special 
recommendations : but to comply with my duty, I must make honorable men- 
tion of the second company of active rangers, commanded by Captain Candiani, 
and of the Zaragoza battalion, under Captain Rohoso. 

I have the honor to communicate this to you, with the greatest respc::. 

Independence and libertv ! Camp near Tiacotalpam, June 6, 1S66. 

FRANCISCO CARREOX. 

The General Second in Chief of the Eastern Line, at Amatlan. 

Amatlan, June 15, 1S66. 

A certified copy : 

J. A. RUIZ, Secretary. 



[Enclosure No 6.] 
MEXICAN REPUBLIC — EASTERN LINE INFANTRY SECTION. 

After reconnoitring Tiacotalpam on the 9th, wishing to drive the enemy out, 
I moved a part of my forces yesterday, with a column of cavalry under Colonel 
Gomez, upon that city, forming two columns of infantry under Lieutenant Col- 
onels Diaz, Lagos, and Ariza. 

My schemes were frustrated ; for the enemy retreated as soon as our forces 
appeared, and burned all the houses behind him. He did this to discover our 
number, for it was not yet day. 

The imperialists took refuge in their limited fortifications, and on board the 
four French war steamers, that instantly opened fire upon us. It did not frighten 
our soldiers, for they advanced almost to the parapets of the forts. 

At four o'clock in the morning, while this was going on, several of the enemy's 
soldiers came over to our side. 

My sole object was to draw the enemy out of his trenches to an open fiel I 
fight ; but failing in that. I ordered the retreat of the attacking columns a: six 
in the morning, by the national road, in sight of the enemy on land and »n She 
boats. 

Knowing the enemv in the town depended on his large artillery and the steam- 
ers moored in the river, and had not the courage to come out. I continued to an- 
noy him : and this I will continue, informing you of the result. 

Independence and libertv ! Camp in Mototepec, Mav 15. 1S66. 

* F. CARREOX. 

The General Second Commander-in-Chief of the Eastern Line. 

"Washington, July 13. 15 
A true copy : 

IGNO. MARISCAL, Secretary. 



294 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

[Enclosure No. 7.] 
MEXICAN REPUBLIC — ADVANCED SECTION, x\ r EAR TLACOTALPAM. 

At eleven at night my forces were in front of Tlacotalpam, about to begin the 
attack, when the gunboats opened upon us, and we were compelled to retire. 
They are now on the surrounding heights, determined to annoy the garrison as 
long as possible. 

Independence and liberty ! Camp at Aniates, May 29, 1866. 

F. CARREON. 

The General Second in Ccief of the Eastern Line. 

Washington, July 13, 1866. 
A true copy : 

IGNO. MARISCAL, Secretary. 



No. 101. 

Mr. Seward to Senor Romero. 

Department of State, 

Washington, July 19, 1S66. 
Sir : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of 
the 13th instant, containing a copy of a letter addressed to you by General 
Diaz ; also of one addressed by General Garcia to the minister of war of Mex- 
ico, both on the subject of some military operations; for the information con- 
tained in which please accept my thanks. 

I avail myself of this occasion to renew to you the assurances of my dis- 
tinguished consideration. 

WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 
Senor Don M. Romero, fyc., Sfc, Sfc. 



No. 102. 

Senor Romero to Mr. Seward. 
[Translation.] 

Mexican Legation in the United States of America, 

Washington, October §, 1866. 
Mr. Secretary : I have the honor to transmit to you, for the information 
of the government of the United States, the documents specified in the accom 
panying index, which reached me to-day, giving an account of recent events in 
the eastern military division of the Mexican republic, the principal of which is 
the occupation of Tlacotalpam, in the State of Vera Cruz, by the forces of 
General Garcia. 

I take the occasion to renew to you, Mr. Secretary, the assurances of my 
most distinguished consideration. 

M. ROMERO. 
Hon. William H. Seward, Sfc, fyc, Sfc. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 



295 



Index of documents sent by the Mexican legation in Washington to the De- 
partment of State of the United States, with the note of this date, in rela- 
tion to events that have occurred on the eastern line. 



No. 


Date. 


Contents. 




1866. 




1 


July 


28 


Letter of General Diaz to Mr. Romero, giving an account of his last op- 
erations in the State ot Oaxaca. 


2 


Sept. 


20 


Letter of General Garcia to Mr. Romero, enclosing the following docu- 
ments : 


3 


Sept. 


20 


Letter from the same general to President Juarez, informing him of late 
events in the line of his command. 


4 


July 


30 


Official despatch from General Garcia to the minister of war, in Chihuahua, 
communicating the capture of Alvarado. 


5 


Sept. 


8 


Official despatch of General Garcia to the same department, on the occu- 
pation of Tlaeotalpam. 


6 


Aug. 


31 


Proclamation of Colonel Teran, second in command on the line south of 
Vera Cruz, to the inhabitants of the State. 



Washington, October 6, 1866. 



IGNO. MARISCAL, Secretary. 



[Enclosure No. 1.] 

Huamuxtitlan, July 28, 1866. 

Much Esteemed Friend : Your letters of the 10th and l?th of June reached 
me at the same time. 

After my letter from Quetzala, to which you refer, I wrote to you from 
Jamiltepec, informing you of my occupation of that place and of the advantage 
I gained over the enemy in pursuing him towards Oaxaca. I wrote you from 
Putla, on my arrival there, where I surprised and routed 200 of the enemy. 
Four days afterwards I informed you of my march to Tlapaco, my entry into 
that city, pursuit of the garrison, and my sudden return here. 

The most important event I mentioned to you was the complete rout of an 
Austrian column in the sierra, going south, by Figueroa. I have made no de- 
tailed official report of this to the supreme government, because the mails ven- 
ture to carry only the smallest papers, and what I received I transmitted to you. 
I did not send an official despatch, because I had not received one, and I think 
■it unnecessary now, after so long a time. 

I have already informed you of what Figueroa wrote me, and, though you 
may have received my letter, I will repeat the most interesting. 

On the battle-field at Soejaltepec we buried 96 dead bodies of Austrians. 
From there to Fejuacan we saw many dead, but the woods was so dense we 
could not count them. It was not Figueroa's soldiers, but the inhabitants, who 
pursued them and fought them in ambush, thus annoying them all along the 
road. The people even set fire to their houses, so as to deprive the enemy of 
all shelter. The most heroic of these were the inhabitants uf Soejaltepec, Ix- 
catlan, and Ojitlan. 

As to my future operations, they will be where there is most profit. It is 



296 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

hazardous to give you information now, on account of the insecurity of the roads ; 
but I can assure you everything is going on much to my satisfaction. 
Your friend and servant, 

PORFIRIO DIAZ. 
Minister Senor Don Matias Romero, Washington. 

Washington, October 6, 1866. 
A true copy : 

IGNO. MARISCAL, Secretary. 



[Enclosure No. 2."] 

Tlacotalpam, September 20, 1866. 

Dear Sir and Friend : ***** * 

It gave me much pleasure to learn, from your letter of the 22d June, that 
Santa Anna had failed in his secret intentions against this country. I have 
since received copies of the correspondence between the government, you, and 
him, by Avay of Vera Cruz, and had it published immediately. 

Things have changed here wonderfully. We have reconquered this city, 
thanks to the valor and patriotism of the loyal Mexicans who are with me to 
make war on the enemy on this coast, as you will see by the correspondence I 
send you for transmission to the government, which I hope you will do after 
you read it. 

The enemy has no place of refuge in this part of the country now but Alvarado, 
which is only kept by the gunboats ; but the garrison is small, and it dreads an 
attack from us ; and this we will do as soon as the health of our men permits 
if the enemy does not evacuate the place soon, which it is said he will do very 
soon. 

Your very obedient servant, 

ALEJANDRO GARCIA. 

Minister Sefior Don Matias Romero, Washington. 



A true copy 



Washington, October 7, 1866. 
IGNO. MARISCAL, Secretanj. 



[Enclosure No. 3 ] 



Tlacotalpam, September 20, 1866. 

Dear Sir : When I frankly told you in one of my former communications of 
the desperate state of affairs in the line of my command, on account of the en- 
emy's invasion in March last, and of other disturbances north and south of it, I 
assured you that, notwithstanding our want of arms, we would not falter a mo- 
ment in the national defence, neither I nor any of the patriots who accompany 
me on the campaign, with so much abnegation and suffering; and now I have 
the satisfaction to inform you that the aspect of affairs has completely changed, 
thanks to the prodigious efforts of the good Mexicans who have saved the situ- 
ation in this part of the country. 

The invaders well knew that the possession of this city, the natural key to the 
region watered by the Papaloapam, San Juan and Tereschoacan, with their 
many tributaries, was a matter of life or death with them ; and they collected 
all their troops and elements of defence at this point, and their allies, the French, 
brought up their war steamers to defend them. For this reason it attracted our 
particular attention, and we determined to make it the object of our attack. 

On the 10th of August, taking advantage of the absence of the steamers, we 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. ' 297 

attacked tbe place formally, the detailed report of which I send to the War 
Department and to General Diaz. As yon will see by the document, though 
we could not get possession of the city that day, we frightened the enemy and 
convinced him that he could not resist another attack from us, and when we 
prepared to make it the city was surrendered on the 10th of August, as you 
will see by the despatch which I also send this day to the War Department, 
and which I have already sent to General Diaz. 

By the occupation of this place the enemy is free from this coast, and, judg- 
ing from the condition of the so-called empire, I do not think he will be able to 
recover it very soon. 

While in the city, General Ignacio A. Alatorre, who escaped from the French 
in the city of Mexico, where be was held prisoner, presented himself to me, and 
I was glad to appoint him again chief of the northern part of the State, where 
he had formerly rendered such important services, and where he has already 
started with a small force, arms, munitions and money, which I furnished him 
for the expedition. I expect he will do much good, for General Alatorre is a 
chief justly famous on that line. I hear the imperialists have suffered some 
damage in Zacapoastla, and Tezirytlan. There is no news from Chiapas ; tbe 
organization of forces is complete there. It is the same in Tabasco, for the 
French vessels do not call there, and their garrison in Jonuta is of no use to 
them ; on the contrary, the soldiers are deserting, and these deserters furnish us 
with arms and amunition in that region. 

General Diaz wrote to me from Chinautla on the 19th, and says be has pro- 
gressed considerably. He is acquainted with all the movements of our forces, 
even those near the city of Mexico. 

Your very attentive and obedient servant, 

ALEJANDRO GARCIA. 

Sefior Don Benito Juarez, 

President of the Mexican Republic, Chihuahua. 

Washington, October 6, 1866. 
A true copy : 

IGNO. MARISCAL, Secretary. 



r Enclosure No. 4.] 

MEXICAN REPUBLIC HEADQUARTERS EASTERN LINE SECOND-GENERAL-IN 

CHIEF. 

Citizen Minister: Captain Thomas Lozano sends me the following good 
news from Alvarado : 

"I have the honor to inform you that we captured Alvarado to-day by as- 
sault, all the munitions of war belonging to the garrison falling into our hands, 
with seventeen prisoners of war and seven killed of the enemy. I have ordered 
the authorities to bury them. On our side, Ave have to lament the death of the 
brave Captain Pilar Salas, several officers wounded, and the loss of several of 
our best horses. I will make out a circumstantial report as soon as I can obtain 
the necessary information." 

Which I have the honor to transcribe for your information and the satisfac- 
tion of the government. 

Independence and liberty! Amatlan, July 30, 1866. 

ALEJANDRO GARCIA. 

The Minister of War, Chihuahua. 

Washington, October 6, 1S66. 

A true copy : 

IGNACIO MARISCAL, Secretary. 



298 ' CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

[Enclosure No. 5.] 

MEXICAN REPUBLIC — HEADQUARTERS EASTERN LINE — SECOND-GENERAL-IN- 
CHIEF. 

Citizen Minister: On the 18th of August I wrote to General Porfirio Dias, 
chief of the eastern line, as follows : 

"You will see in the acompanying report that I ordered an attack on Tlaco- 
talpam, in possession of the imperialists, and harmed the enemy so much in the 
first assault I knew we could not fail. Convinced of this, I arranged a second 
attack, when the imperialist commander, Don Mariano Camacho, proposed a 
parley with me. After a conference of some time, he offered to surrender the 
city to me to-day, if 1 would consent to his quiet withdrawal. He stated his 
object was to avoid all bloodshed, for the commander of the four French war 
steamers declared he would shell the town and reduce it to ashes if one of the 
imperialists was wounded,, and the marines were anxious for an excuse to carry 
out their barbarous design. 

" Convinced that it is my duty to spare the inhabitants and permit those to 
return who have left, wandering in the woods for four months, exposed to the 
inclemency of the weather and sickness, rather than submit to the enemy; ap- 
preciating the valor and determination of our troops, and the bravery of the 
Conejo garrison that frightened the French, and believing that Camacho's pro- 
posal was honorable to the nation, I accepted it yesterday, and the city was 
surrendered to me this day. I immediately sent in a guard to protect the in- 
habitants, and now the city is once more under the protection of the glorious 
flag of the republic, of which it has been deprived for so long a time. I also 
have the pleasure of rejoiciug with you and all loyal Mexicans upon the recon- 
quest of a place of so much importance on this line." 

Which I have the honor to transcribe for the information of the President of 
the republic. I am pleased to assure you that peace has been restored on this 
line by the recapture of Tlacotalpam, and that I am busy organizing a govern- 
ment for the State. 

Independence and libertv ! Tlacotalpam, September 8, 1866. 

ALEJANDRO GARCIA. 

The Citizen Minister of War and Marine, Chihuahua. 

Washington, 'October 6, 1866. 
A true copy : 

IGNACIO MARISCAL, Secretary. 



[Enclosure No. 6.] 
PROCLAMATION. 

Colonel Luis Mier y Teran to the inhabitants along the coast of Veva Cruz : 
Fellow-citizens : The undersigned having been appointed to duty on this 
coast as second in command, he therefore appears here for the purpose of open- 
ing a campaign, acting under the orders of General C. Ignacio Alatorre, an 
officer who is well known to you for his skill and brilliant qualities. 

The last knell for the so-called empire which has tried to fasten itself upon 
the Mexican nation has been sounded. Unable to remain a cold spectator at 
this time, I have taken the field against that empire. To this end I have 
abandoned family and business interests. I have abandoned everything which 
is dear to a man after this love of country. I intend to continue fighting in my 
country's defence, and that we may be successful I ask — indeed I count upon — 
the co operation of all good Mexicans. I feel confident that all such Mexi- 
cans will aid me — some with their arms, others with their intelligence — and all 
to defeat tyranny. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 299 

Come, then, my friends. Already you know who I am, and you know that 
I will do only that which is right, and nothing but what is for the restoration to 
our country of independence and liberty. 

LUIS MIER Y TERAX. 

Antigua, August 31, 1S66. 



No. 103. 

Mr. Seioard to Se/wr Romero. 

Department of State, 

Washington, October 12, 1S66. 

Sir : I have to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of the 6th 
instant, containing some information with regard to certain military operations 
in Mexico. 

I avail myself of this opportunity to renew to you the assurances of my most 
distinguished consideration. 



SenorDoN M. Romero, fyc., fyc, t\-c. 



WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 



No. 104. 

Se/ior Romero to Mr. Seicard. 

[Translation.] 

Mexican Legation in the United States of America, 

Washington, October 21, 1S66. 
Mr. Secretary : For the information of the government of the United 
States, I have the honor to send you the enclosed indexed documents, showing 
the condition of affairs in August last in that part of the eastern division 
of the Mexican republic under the immediate command of General Diaz. 

I avail myself of this opportunity to renew to you, Mr. Secretary, the assur- 
ances of my most distinguished consideration. 

M. ROMERO. 
Hon. William H. Seward, t\c, t\c, fyc. 



Index of documents sent by the Mexican legation in Washington to the Depart- 
ment of State of the United States, with a note of this date, concerning events 
on the eastern line. 



No. 



Date. 



Contents. 



1866. 
Aug. 12 

Aug. 20 

Aug. 20 

Aue. 20 



General Diaz's letter to a friend of his giving an account of the latest 
military operations. 

General Diaz's letter to Mr. Kornero, from Chiantla, enclosing the follow- 
ing communications : 

A note from General Diaz to the minister of war of the Mexican republic, 
reporting his latest military operations in the line of his command. 

A note from the same to the war minister, enclosing the official report of 
General Luis P. Figueroa, from Teotitlau, dated May 1, giving au ac- 
count of his movements the last of April, 1866. 



IGNO. MAEISCAL, Secretary. 
"Washington, October 21, 1866. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 



[Enclosure No. 1.] 

XOCHHUAHUATLAN, August 12, 1866. 

My Esteemed Friend: * * * #'•...» 

I have been some days ou the border of the State of Guerrero, doing little, 
but making the enemy, and even friends, believe I intended to remain. I am 
preparing a march from the third district of the State of Mexico to Tehuantepec. 
For the last few clays I have been busy in the northern part of the State of 
Puebla; and though I have not effected much, for want of means and supplies, 
I have done the best I could. Right or wrong, I begin my work with prospects 
of success. I approached Chiantla to protect a movement of a part of its gar- 
rison. On the 14th, when Jacaquistla was taken, where I got forty horses and 
much ammunition, a letter informed me that both expeditions were successful. 
From Chiantla 1 took prisoners, horses, one howitzer, and all the armament and 
ammunition, to what amount I have not yet learned. 

The third district of the State of Mexico is in motion, and I have sent Gene- 
ral Leyra with his cavalry to protect the movement and direct the operations. 
* * * * * * * 

I will soon give you the result of my plans. * * * 

Colonel Visoso routed Nava, the imperialist military commander, who died 
in action. 

Although Maximilian supplies me with arms, by distributing them among the 
people, they are not of the best quality, and I hope soon to exchange them for 
better ones. I am in great want of ammunition, though General Alvarez furnishes 
me all he can spare ; and the enemy's arms are so much better than mine, they 
have a signal advantage. 

Your friend and servant, 

PORFIRIO DIAZ. 

Washington, October, 1866. 
A true copy : 

IGNACIO MARISCAL, Secretary. 



[Enclosure No. 2.] 

Chiantla, August 20, 1866, 

Very Dear Friend : I wish to inform you of my present situation and the 
progress I make ; and, as I have not the time to copy this for the supreme 
government, I send you the whole official correspondence unsealed, so you may 
see it before mailing it. 

# * ^ ^ % ^ * 

Your affectionate friend, 

PORFIRIO DIAZ. 
Sc-So'r Licenciado Matias Romero, 

Envoy Extraordinary and Minister Plenipotentiary 

of the Republic, Washington. 

Washington, October 21, 1866. 
A true copy : 

IGNACIO MARISCAL, Secretary. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 301 

[Enclosure No. 3.] 
MEXICAN REPUBLIC— EASTERN LINE HEADQUARTERS. 

Citizen Minister : Profiting by the present inaction of the invading army, 
thanks to the operations of the republican forces inland, I have determined to 
make a geneial movement, with the few elements of war in my power, upon the 
States of Mexico, Puebla, Oajaca, Tlaxcala and Chiapas. I commenced opera- 
tions on the 10th with some success. On that day, Colonel Jesus M \ isoso 
took one hundred and fifty men of the Chiautla garrison, and routed the rest 
under the traitor Gavilo, joining me afterwards with a howitzer and eighty-six 
muskets he had captured. . . 

On the 13th of the same month we found ourselves m front ot bluantla, 
retaken by Gavilo with the aid of the Austrian garrison of Matamoras. 1 
twice thought the enemy would attack me that day ; but ne only came out to 
reconnoitred not daring to leave the protection of the forts. While m that situa- 
tion I received notice that Lieutenant Colonel Ignacio Sanchez Gamboa, head- 
ing the inhabitants of Ixcaquixtla, had whipped the traitor Grauados Maldo- 
nado prefect of Tepeji, killing seven of his men, taking twenty-six prisoners 
and thirty muskets, and scattering his troops, twenty-eight cavalry joining us 
during the fight. As Sanchez Gamboa was delayed by his booty, the enemy 
caught up with him, and he was obliged to join me for protection. Meantime 
the enemy remained safe in his forts at Chiautla, and did not seem disposed to 
give me battle in the open field. So I ordered General Francisco Leyra, go- 
vernor of the third district of Mexico, with his 70 cavalry, to organize and aim 
all the republicans in his district, and appoint proper officers. \\ ith the torces 
under my particular command, I came to this place, where I was soon joined 
by Lieutenant Colonel I. Sanchez Gamboa. 

While this is taking place here, General Luis P. Figueroa is to menace le- 
huacan on the north ; Commander Felipe Cruz, with one hundred and fifty moun- 
taineers of Mixtecas, will occupy the Peras mines on the 12th ; on the same 
day Colonel Manuel Lopez y Orozco marched from Tamiltepec against lola; 
anu the Juchitan garrison was to move to Tequisistlan, to hold the road between 
Tehuan tepee and Oajaca. 

I am waiting the result of these operations, that were to take place together, 
and I will thus°extencl my line of operations in this direction, and get all the sup- 
plies I can. At the same time I will hold the imperialists at Puebla in check 
by frequent incursions to that city. 

If the enemy comes out to attack me, as I have reason to believe he will, 1 
will retreat, and only give battle when certain of success ; for my sole object is 
to get hold of the abundant supplies north of Puebla, in Tlaxcala, and even in 
the city of Puebla, where the people are becoming restless and revolutionary. 
I will soon have the pleasure of reporting the result of all the manoeuvres in 
which the forces of Chiapas, Tabasco, and Vera Cruz are not interested, because 
the first have to remain near Oajaca to watch operations in Juchitan, Tehuaute- 
pec, and the movement of General Garcia upon Tlacotalpam, and the rest have 
to defend the approaches to Yucatan. 

The country and liberty ! Chiantla, August 20, 1S66. l r>T\7 

The Citizen General Minister of War, CJiihualiua. 

Washington, October 21, 1S66. 

A true copy : , ,. _ 

w IGNO. MARISCAL, Secretary. 



302 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

[Enclosure No. 4.] 
MEXICAN REPUBLIC — HEADQUARTERS OP THE EASTERN LINE. 

In a communication, dated the 1st of May, in Teotitlan del Camino, General 
Louis P. Figueroa reports as follows : 

" I have the honor to inform you that I marched on Vera Cruz the 24th of 
last month with General Garcia, for the purpose of attacking a mixed force of 
imperialists and French. The expedition failed, and I returned to Tuxtepec, 
where I arrived the 29th. On the evening of the 28th I heard that two columns 
of Austrians and traitors had occupied the portion of Santa Domingo along the 
river of the same name ; that another column of 600 men, with two 12-pounders, 
coming from Huaetla, were near this place ; and that a fourth column of 500 
men with artillery had appeared near Teutila, all to join and attack this place. 

"From the numerical superiority of the enemy we had little hopes of being 
able to sustain our position; but as our troops were united I prepared for the 
defence to the best of my ability. 

"At 6 o'clock on the morning of the 30th the enemy appeared with two centre 
columns, protected in flank by artillery. The fight soon became general, and after 
six hours of constant fire, and several attempts at assault by the enemy, he finally 
withdrew to Ixcatlan to wait for re-enfoi'cements. He left seventy killed, thirty 
rifles, twenty muskets, and one cornet. We took several prisoners, but we could 
not pursue the fugitives, who took to the woods, on account of the few men I 
had. We lost twenty-five men killed, among them Jose M. Rocha, captain, and 
thirty men wounded, among them Commander J. Ramirez. The next day I 
sent the Ixcatlan company to skirmish with the enemy that occupied their homes, 
and they exhibited their courage and patriotism by burning their own houses to 
dislodge the enemy. He afterwards made a reconnoissance, retired, and has not 
reappeared since the 15th. From that time to the 22d there were several skirmishes, 
and we captured several mules with loads of forage. At 6 o'clock on the morn- 
ing of the 23d three columns of the enemy made their appearance, just as they 
had done on the 30th of last month, and commenced an attack, but failing to 
accomplish anything, they retired. On the 25th they renewed the attack, dis- 
tributed liquor to the soldiers, and encouraged them by words. They opened 
their artillery with a brisk fire, and poured their columns upon our ranks. The 
contest was soon man to man, traitors and Austrians were mingled with the loyal 
defenders of the republic, and after a sanguinary struggle they were compelled 
to quit the field. The enemy lost about 200 killed, 114 wounded, a quantity of 
rifles, and 64 prisoners. Our loss was considerable. We lament the death of 
the brave Commander Lorenzo Guzman. 

" I enclose a detailed account of the killed and wounded for the information 
at headquarters. 

" I can make no particular recommendation of my subordinates, for they all 
did their duty, and exhibited great courage in combat." 

I have the honor to send the above to your department, assurring you this 
victory has destroyed the enemy's plans of invading the south, and has put our 
forces into a position to undertake an expedition, of which I hope soon to give 
you a favorable account. 

Country and liberty ! Chiantla, August 20, 1866. 

PORFIRIO DIAZ. 

The Minister of War, Chihuahua. 

Washington, October 21, 1866. 
A true copy : , 

IGNO. MARISCAL, Secretary. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 60o 

No. 105. 
Mr. Seward to Se/wr Romero. 

Department of State, 

Washington, December 26, 1866. 
Sir : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your note of the 21st 
of last October, containing various documents showing the condition of affairs 
on the eastern line of the Mexican republic during last August, for which I 
pray of you to receive ray thanks. 

1 avail myself of this opportunity to renew to you the assurances of my most 
distinguished consideration. 

b WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 

Senor Don M. Romero, fyc, Sfc., fyc. 



No. 106. 

Se/wr Romero to Mr. Seward. 

[Translation.] 

Mkxican Legation in the United States of America, 

Washington, November 20, 1866. 

Mr. Secretary : I have the honor to transmit to you, for the information 
of the United States government, the documents specified in the accompanying 
index, containing official reports of recent events in the eastern military division 
of the Mexican republic. 

I call your special attention to two important victories of General Diaz over 
the French and Austrians on the 3d and 18th of October last, at Miahuatlan 
and Carbonera, in the State of Oaxaca. 

I avail myself of this occasion to renew, Mr. Secretary, the assurances of my 
most distinguished consideration. 

° M. ROMERO. 

Hon. William H. Seward, fyc, 8fc, Sfc. 



Index of documents sent by tie Mexican legation in Washington to the. Depart- 
ment of State of the United States, with the note of this date, in relation to 
military operations on the eastern line. 



No. 



Date. 



Contents. 



1866. 
Sept. 1 

Oct. 6 



3,4,5,6 Oct. 5 

7 Oct. 11 

8 Oct. 18 



Communication from General Diaz, in Ixcaquistla, State of Oaxaca, 
reporting his military operations to the 1st September. 

Official report, with annexes, of General Diaz to the department of 
war, of an important victory at Miahuatlan, State ot Oaxaca, 3d 
October last. , 

Statements of the killed and wounded at Miahuatlan, and the material 
of war captured from the enemy. . 

General Diaz to General Gaicia on the Miahuatlan victory, and Ins 
march upon Oaxaca. 

Official report of same to the war department of victory over an Aus- 
trian column at Carbonera, State of Oaxaca, on the 18th ot October 
last. 



IGNO. MAKISCAL, Secretary. 



Washington, November *20, 1866. 



304 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 



[Enclosure No. L] 

Yxcaquistla, September 1, 1866. 

Esteemed Friend : Five days ago I entered Tepeji and routed its email 
garrison, which fled, leaving me some prisoners and arms. I staid there two 
days and then came to this place. The Austio-French traitors did not venture 
to follow me, but continued to fortify themselves in Tepeaca. Acatlan is cut 
off and I will soon attack it. I do not expect to get anything more than arms 
in these towns. Yesterday morning, at daylight, I sent a cavalry company to 
the neighboring towns to collect the arms distributed by the French, and it got 
back to-day with a considerable number of muskets and a quantity of ammunition. 
I have sent out another expedition to-day for the same purpose. 

Don Rafael J. Garcia is now acting governor of the State of Puebla, and I 
have appointed General Ouellar commander of the districts of the valley north 
of Puebla and Tlaxcala. General Mendez is in command of the Sierra del 
Puebla, General Ramos is chief of the western districts, and General Leiva is 
operating near Cuernavaca, while Figueroa is threatening Tehuacan. 

Your attentive and obedient servant, 

PORFIRIO DIAZ. 
Mr. Matias Romero. 

Washington, November, 1866. 
A true copy : 

IGNO. MARISCAL, Secretary. 



[Enclosure No. 2. — From the official bulletin, No. 42, Tlacotalpam, October 25, 1866.] 
REPUBLICAN ARMY EASTERN LINE — GENERAL-IN-CHIEF. 

Citizen Minister : After my fight with the Hungarians at Nochistlan, on 
the 23d of September, as you know, I came to this place by Teozacualco and 
Peras. As soon as my movement was known at Oaxaca, Oronoz was sent out 
after me, with 1,100 men, and came in sight at half-past three in the afternoon 
of the 3d instant. As the enemy marched rapidly, I sallied out with my escort 
to find a place for the infantry on the Nogales hills, west of the town, while 
General Vicente Ramos held the enemy at bay with his cavalry. Then, with 
the infantry of Colonel Manuel Gonzales to support me, I located my artillery 
as follows : The line of battle extended from north to south ; the Morelos bat- 
talion of 100 men, under Juan J. Oano, was on the right; 'the mountain sharp- 
shooters, under Felipe Cruz, with 230 men, came next ; and the Patria battalion 
of 96 men, under Colonel Jose Segura y Guzman, closed the left. On the right 
was the Chiantla company of 80 men ; the battalion of loyal countrymen came 
next, consisting of 130 men, under Jose G. Carbo. The line thus established, 
General Ramos passed through the town and left thirty armed citizens, under 
Captain Apolinar Garcia, to protect it. 

To prevent the cavalry from being molested I ordered forty mountain rifle- 
men and the inhabitants to hide in the fields adjoining the town. The cavalry 
passed on the right to the rear of our line, while the enemy kept on till he got 
in front of our line on the hills of Yolveo and the Alatadero ; there, forming into 
three columns, he opened the combat with artillery. Our riflemen bravely sus- 
tained the first onset of the enemy, who, thus stopped, profited by the uneven- 
ness of the ground to continue the fight as he retreated. 

Seeing the great number of the enemy, I enforced my line with the rest of 
the Chiantla company and twenty of the Tlapa battalion, under Colonel Juan 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 305 

Espinosa Gorostiza. The fight then became general along the line, and, as our 
ammunition was giving out, I ordered an assault on the enemy's position, and 
gained a complete victory. Determined upon this, I ordered the riflemen 
across the river, and ranged the rest of my forces into columns ; General Ramos, 
with the Tepeji squadron, marched to the rear of Oronoz, so that the enemy 
was completely surrounded. Then I gave the signal of advance, and placed 
myself at the head of a column formed of the battalion of Fieles and the Puebla 
lancers. Colonel Espinosa soon joined me, and we advanced together. Colonel 
Gonzales and Juan de la Luz Enriquez marched to attack the right flank. Our 
troops overcame all obstacles, and advanced straight in front of the enemy ; took 
his artillery, turned it against him, and gained a complete but hard-earned vic- 
tory. Ramos took the rear with his cavalry, and executed such a rapid move- 
ment that the enemy could not escape. 

The scattered enemy was pursued for three leagues, throwing away his arms ; 
the quantity of which you will perceive by the annexed report, as well as the 
killed, wounded, and prisoners on both sides, with the munitions, baggage, and 
pack-mules. 

I am pleased to inform you that the chiefs, officers, and men behaved with 
signal gallantry on the occasion, and I can make no special commendations. 

The traitor officers taken prisoners were shot, in accordance with the law of 
the 25th of January, 1862. Their names and rank are given in the subjoined 
list. Some of them were the same that went over to the enemy at the last siege 
of Oaxaca. 

I spent the 4th and 5th in this place, reorganizing my forces, enlisting the 
prisoners taken, and arming the rest of my men with the arms that were cap- 
tured. I also formed a hospital, and then reviewed my entire force. I start 
for Oaxaca to-day; it is already in possession of Colonel Felix Diaz, and the 
enemy is confined to Santo Domingo, Carmen, and Cerro de la Soledad. 

I have sent for General Luis P. Eigueroa and Colonel Lopez Orozco, with 
their respective commands. 

Independence and liberty. Miahuatlan, October 6, 1866. 

• POREIRIO DIAZ. 

The Minister of War and Marine, 

At Chihuahua, (or wherever he may be.) 

Washington, November 21, 1566. 
A true copy : 

IGNO. MARISCAL, Secretary. 



[Enclosure No. 3.] 
List of the lulled, wounded, and missing in our division at the battle of the 3d. 

INFANTRY BRIGADE, FIELES BATTALION. 

Killed. — Julian Lopez, corporal ; Lazaro Martinez, Juan de la Cruz, Ignacio 
Casimiro, Jose Antonio, Refugio Ramos, and Jose Bernardo, soldiers. 

Wounded. — Juan Martinez, first sergeant; Jose Toribio, Valentin Perez, 
Felipe Nieva, Felipe Casanova, Joaquin Mora, Juan Morales, Isidro Hernan- 
dez, Juan Caballero, and Jose Maria Conde, soldiers. 

Missing. — Manuel Jimenez and Manuel Olivera. 

CHIANTLA BATTALION. 

Killed. — Trinidad Tacachi, second sergeant; Lucas Garcia, private. 
Wounded. — Felix Rivera, captain ; Jose Maria Robledo, second lieutenant ; 
Jacinto Espinosa and Paulino Garcia, second sergeants; Jose Huertero, corporal. 
20 MEX. 



306 CONDITION OF AFFAIES IN MEXICO. 

Privates : Severino Grajeda, Lorenzo Guevara, Nestor Guadalupe, Jose Morao, 
Andres Augustin, and Martin Palmar. 
Missing. — Mateo Olea, private. 

THE PATRIA BATTALION. 

Wounded. — Lieutenant Martin Cortez ; Bernardo Pastrana, second sergeant ; 
Jose Cuenca and Antonio Barrera, privates. 

THE MORELOS BATTALION. 

Wounded. — Manuel Flores, first sergeant ; Miguel Gaspar and Antonio Tor- 
res, privates. 

Missing. — Pedro Guillermo. 

TLAXIACO COMPANY. 

Wounded. — Pedro Cruz, private. 

MOUNTAIN BATTALION. 

Killed. — Juan Riano. 

Wounded. — Martin Nunez, corporal ; Benigno Garcia, Alejo Nunez, Anacleto 
Bruno, and Simon Nicolas, privates. 

Missing. — Norberto Santiago, corporal ; Juan Hernandez and Luis Lopez, 
privates. 

TEHUICINGO COMPANY. 

Wounded. — Maximo Soriano, private. 

MIAHUATLAN COMPANY., 

Killed. — Apolinar Garcia, captain ; Anastasio Salmeron, second lieutenant ; 
Luis B. Vazquez, Tomas Perez, Angel Chavez, Manuel Garcia, second ser- 
geants, and Felipe Gareda, cornet. Of the staff: Luciano Olivera, lieutenant. 

CAVALRY BRIGADE, PUEBLA LANCERS. 

Killed. — Bartolo Hernandez, captain; Jesus Lopez, ensign; Marcelino 
Rivera, bugler ; Jose Maria Carballido and Mariano Lozano, privates. 

Wounded. — Bonifacio Valle, squadron commander; Manuel Mesa, second 
sergeant; Cecilio Escobar, trumpeter; Tomas Romero, corporal; Jose Ventura, 
private. 

REFORM SQUADRON. 

Killed. — Pedro Lopez, first sergeant; Eduardo Gonzales, corporal; Jose 
Rojas, Jose Estrada, and Manuel Arroyo, privates. 
Wounded. — Crescencio Zurita, private. 

TEPEXI SQUADRON. 

Rilled. — Juan Montero, captain ; Jose Maria Espinola and Cristobal Vazquez, 
■privates. 

Wounded. — Augustin Olguin, ensign, and Miguel Rodriguez, private. 

INDEPENDENCE SQUADRON. 

Killed. — Juan Martinez, private. 
Wounded. — Santos Zamora, private. 

CRUZ PICKETS. 

Missing. — Jose Maria Garcia. 
This is a copy of the original : 

M. TRAVESI. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 307 

[Enclosure No. 4.] 
REPUBLICAN ARMY OF THE EAST, FIRST DIVISION. 

List of the Jailed, ivounded, and prisoners of the enemy in the battle of the 3d. 

Killed of the French. — 1 chief, 4 officers, and 15 privates. 

Wounded. — 3 officers and 6 privates. 

Prisoners. — 3 officers, 7 soldiers. Total, 1 chief, nine officers, and 28 soldiers. 

Traitors killed. — 4 officers and 32 privates. 

Idem : Wounded. — 72 men. 

Prisoners — 7 officers, 295 men. Total, 11 officers and 399 men. 

Miahuatlan, 5tk October, 1SG6. 

SAMUEL SANTIBANEZ. 

A copy of the original : 

M. TRAVESI. 



[Enclosure No. 5.] 

REPUBLICAN ARMY OF THE EAST — FIRST DIVISION HEADQUARTERS. 

List of arms, gun-carriages, cartridges, infantry and cavalry equipments, mu- 
nitions, equipments, and other articles taken from the enemy at the battle of 
Nogales, near Miahuatlan, on the 3d. 

Artillery. — 2 mountain howitzers, 4-pounders, with carriages for same; 2 
swabs, 2 rammers, 2 ammunition sacks, 4 regulation chests for grenades, 4 sets 
regulation harness, 129 howitzer cartridges, 41 canisters for sam'e. 

Ammunition for infantry. — 15,000 ball cartridges for Enfield rifles, 14,240 
for percussion guns. 

Arms for infantry and cavalry. — 330 Enfield rifles, 115 other guns, 5 Missis- 
sippi rifles, 2 common rifles, 2 Minie rifles, 37 muskets, (one ounce,) 50 lances, 9 
sabres, 1S6 bayonets for Enfield guns, and 43 others. 

5 war chests, 5 cornets, 360 pounds crackers, 100 pounds salt, 17 pouads 
coffee, 16 pounds of tobacco. 

Note. — Forty-eight pack mules were taken from the enemy. 

MANUEL SANTIBANEZ. 
Miahuatlan, October 5, 1866. 

A copy of the original : 

M. TRAVESI, Secretary. 

[Enclosure No. 6.] 
REPUBLICAN ARMY OF THE EAST FIRST DIVISION HKADQUARTERS. 

List of hilled, wounded, prisoners, and deserters of the French at the battle of 

the 3d. 

Testart Zacharie, battalion commander; Ferdinand Bandens, sub-lieutenant; 
Camille Charles Tamborini, sub-lieutenanl, ; Heduo Luis, Chevrillon Morelle, 
sergeants ; Louis Lelievre, Paul Pouillon, Jean Fouques, Emilie Masson, Jean 
Weber, Joseph Pigaults, Jean Stoffer, J. Mayseu, Boisseau Gontier, Charles 
Chene, and two other privates whose names are not known. 

Wounded. — Captain Charles Mayer, First Lieutenant Sylvester Monlau, 
(died in hospital,) Sergeant Puech. Privates : Maroc, Augustiu, Monteil, 
Alexander Vandevayer, (died in hospital,) and Desmure. 

Prisoners. — Lieutenant Santory Auge Toupain; Louis Eugene Toupain, 



308 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

Jules Jean Certain, Joseph Marie, Adolphe Fleurch, Nicolas Antoine, Jules 
Francois Pincon, Jules Moracchini, Francois Moracchini, Victor Adolphe Barat, 
Albert Vandevayer, Alexander Vandael, and Charles Victor Julienne, privates. 
Deserters. — One man, named Le Rick. 

A copy of the original : 

M. TRAVESI. 



List of traitor officers taken prisoners on the 3d of this month and, shot, in con- 
formity with the law of the 25th of January, 1862. 

Infantry captain Mariano Heras, infantry captain Victoriana Rivas, infan- 
try captain Joaquin Jijon, infantry lieutenant Jose Maria Flores, sub-lieu- 
tenant Benjamin Cabero, Lorenzo Valverde, and Rafael Velasco. 

MANUEL SANTIBANEZ. 

Miahuatlan, October 5, 1866. 



A copy of the original 



M. TRAVESI, Secretary. 



[Enclosure No. 7.] 

Mexican Republic, San Felipe del Agua, 

October 11, 1866. 

Esteemed Comrade : Under date of the 4th instant I wrote you, giving 
you an account of the splendid victory obtained by the force under my com- 
mand over the expedition coming to attack me at Miahuatlan, under the orders 
of Oronoz, but knowing that my letter was miscarriecl, I direct you this, giving 
you an extract of said letter, in whicb you will see in brief, with all its details. 

About three o'clock of the afternoon of tbe 3d instant the enemy appeared, 
advancing rapidly upon this place. I decided to go out immediately and meet 
him, and leaving General Ramos with the cavalry to detain him a few moments, 
I placed the infantry quickly on some rising ground that appeared to me advan- 
tageous, and soon the enemy opened fire on us. The column of the enemy was 
composed of 1,200 men, of three arms, of which three hundred were cavalry, and 
two mountain howitzers. The sharp fire of the enemy was answered with spirit 
by our advance sharpshooters, and near sunset, noting that the enemy did not 
make a general attack, and finding myself nearly without munitions, I concluded 
to attack him, for which purpose I organized my columns and descended from 
my positions upon the enemy's lines. On crossing the river that separated our 
positions, the enemy's camp fell into disorder, and on charging them his Dattal- 
ions commenced to run, (having formed in some few groups, making a slight re- 
sistance, ) followed by our cavalry. They were fast falling into our power, being 
killed and wounded on the field of battle. All the arms, two pieces of artillery, 
munitions, say fifty mule loads, and various other effects of war ; also, more 
than four hundred prisoners of war. On the field about eighty killed. Of the 
French not one escaped. The greater part were killed, and among them their 
commander, Testard. 

The moral effect is greater than the positive triumph. As a consequence, my 
brother, who was near the capital, (Oaxaca,) occupied it immediately with some 
force from the hills, and the enemy, filled with panic, made but feeble resist- 
ance, shutting themselves in their fortifications of the Cerro, Santa Domingo, 
and Carmen. After securing the field of battle and reorganizing my forces, that 
were considerably increased, I marched on the city to direct the siege. Figue- 
roa has to come here with his forces, and I expect momentarily Lopez Orosco, 
with troops from Costa Chica. 

The siege is well organized, and the enemy know well that they cannot re- 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 309 

ceive assistance. I have my headquarters at this point, which is very conveni- 
ent for the operations. 



General Alejandro Garcia, Tlacotalpam. 



PORFIRIO DIAZ. 



[Enclosure No. 8. ] 
NATIONAL ARMY — HEADQUARTERS OF THE MILITARY DIVISION OF THE EAST. 

Headquarters at Las Minas, October 18, 1866. 

Citizen Minister: After the battle of Miahuatlan, on the 3d instant, about 
which an official report has been sent to your department, I marched to Oaxaca, 
which was besieged by Colonel Felix Diaz, took active measures to perfect the 
siege and shut up the garrison, and just as I was about assaulting it I heard 
that a column of 1,500 men, of infantry, cavalry, and artillery, was coming to 
aid the besieged garrison. I at once left Oaxaca, and came without delay to 
meet the column. To-day at noon I met the enemy at "La Carbonera." The 
battle began at 1 p. m. with great tenacity and determination on both sides. 
It is 7 o'clock p. m., and we are at Las Minas, having followed the enemy for 
three leagues, and captured 396 Austrian, Polish, and Hungarian prisoners, 
among whom are seven officers, four mountain rifled guns, over 600 carbines, 
and great abundance of munitions. I have had some very dear losses. 

I have no time to lose, as I must prevent the escape of the enemy, which was 
at Oaxaca with very good artillery and great abundance of arms, ammunition, 
and clothing. I will send you afterward a detailed account of this important 
victory. 

Please congratulate the citizen President for it. 

PORFIRIO DIAZ. 

Citizen Minister of War, Chihuahua. 



No. 107. 
Mr Seward to Senor Romero. 

Department of State, 
Washington, November 30, 1S66. 

Sir : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication 
of the 20th instant, containing certain documents relating to recent events on 
the eastern military line of the Mexican republic, for which be pleased to ac- 
cept my thanks. 

I avail myself of this opportunity to renew to you the assurances of my most 
distinguished consideration. 

WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 

Senor Don M. Romero, §c, fyc, Sfc. 



No. 6. 

THE PRESIDENTIAL TERM OF PRESIDENT JUAREZ. 

List of papers. 

108. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward, (with 15 enclosures) June 13, 1866. 

109. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero July 7, 1S66. 



310 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

110. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward, (with 3 enclosures) November 1, 1866. 

111. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero November 9, 1966. 

112. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward, (with 9 enclosures) November 21, 1866" 

113. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero November 28, 1866. 



No. 108. 

Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward. 

[Translation.] 

Mexican Legation to the United States of America, 

Washington, June 13, 1866. 

Mr. Secretary : For the purpose of keeping the United States government 
informed of the satisfactory manner in which the decree of November 8, 18G5, 
issued by the constitutional government, has been received in the Mexican repub- 
lic, by which the prolongation of the period of service of the President until it be 
possible to hold a new election is decreed, I have the honor to send with this note 
a copy of No. 11 of the official paper of the government of Mexico, published at 
the town of Paso del Norte the 8th of March last, which contains a communication 
from General Garcia Morales, governor and military commander of the State of 
Sonora, dated at La Noria, the 1st of February previous, and another by the 
political chief of the Territory of Lower California, addressed to the Mexican 
consul at San Francisco, who transmitted it to the minister of foreign rela- 
tions, in which communications both functionaries express the completest ap- 
proval, and that of Mexicans residing within their respective jurisdictions, of the 
measure indicated. I also send a copy of No. 16 of the official newspaper of 
17th May last past, in which are published two communications on the same 
matter addressed to the department of foreign relations and government, one by 
General Don Domingo Rubi, governor and military commander of the State of 
Sinaloa, and the other by General Ramon Cowna, commanding the united bri- 
gades of Sinaloa and Jalisco, in which they manifest their own opinion and that of 
their subordinates as entirely favorable to said decree. I send also, lastly, various 
printed acts signed by citizens of the State of Tabasco, in which absolute approval 
is expressed of the decree prolonging the constitutional term of President Juarez. 

I avail gladly of this occasion to renew to you, Mr. Secretary, the assurances 
of my most distinguished consideration. 

M. ROMERO. 

Hon. William H. Seward, fyc, fyc, fyc. 



[Enclosure No. 1. — Translation.] 

Government and Military Command of the State of Sonora, 

In camp on the Noria, February 1, 1866. 

I have received with positive satisfaction the two decrees issued by the Presi- 
dent under date 8th November last, and the circular of the department which 
accompanied it ; the first of them on the prolongation of the functions of the 
supreme magistrate of the nation, while the condition of the foreign war does 
not permit the making of a new constitutional 'election ; and the second on the 
mode of substitution for it, if, during the war, it should fall through. 

The anomalous circumstances under which, unfortunately, the republic is 
placed ; the void or silence of the constitution on this point of such vital 
interest to the country ; the spirit of articles of 78, 79, 80, S2 of the same fun- 
damental code ; and, finally, the amount of powers which the legislative power 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 311 

• 
of the Mexican union devolved on the executive at the date of the 11th Decem- 
ber, 1861, can superabundantly justify the first of said measures, in which not 
even the enemies of the government will ever be able to see anything else 
than the intense zeal of the President for legitimate action, the closest investi- 
gation of his determinations, and, above all, his singular self-denial in encoun- 
tering a position so trying as the present without other recompense than the 
satisfaction always caused by the discharge of duty, however onerous it may be. 
Independence and liberty ! 

J. GARCIA MORALES. 
D. ELI AS, Secretary. 
The Citizen Minister of Relations and Government, 

Paso del Norte. 

Washington, June 13, 1866. 
A true copy : 

IGNO. MARISCAL, Secretary. 



[Enclosure No. 2.— From No. 11 Periodico Official, 8th March, 1866.] 

Consulate of Mexico at San Francisco, 

San Francisco, January 24, 1866. 

Citizen Antonio Pedrin, political chief of the territory of Lower California, 
says to me, under date of 16th instant, from San Jose, as follows : 

" With your valued communication, dated 27th December last past, I have 
received two numbers of the official paper which you had the kindness to send 
me, in which are published the decrees which the President of the republic is- 
sued through the department of foreign relations and government ; one relating 
to the prolongation of the functions of the President, and the other on the re- 
sponsibilities of General Jesus Gonzalez Ortega. 

ft In acknowledging the receipt of this communication, I acknowledge with 
pleasure that, in my opinion, the citizen President could not adopt a more pru- 
dent measure, because if it is true that it might affect certain partialities inter- 
ested in a change of administration, there is nothing more sure than that none 
of our public men can fill the immense void which would be left in the absence 
of the power — the father of the Mexican republic. 

"By his side we know that we always hold combined faith, honor, and con- 
. stancy, sustained by the national party — out of it, God only knows what would 
become of Mexico under actual circumstances." 

I have the honor to transmit you this, that you may make report to the Pres- 
ident of the republic for his information. 

I reiterate to you the assurances of my distinguished consideration. 

JOSE A. GODOY. 

The Minister of Foreign Relations, Paso del Norte. 

Washington, June 13, 1S66. 
A true copy : 

IGNO. MARISCAL, Secretary. 



[Enclosure No. 3.] 

Government and Military Commandancy of the State of Sinaloa, 

Concordia, December 24, 1765. 
I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt from your department of the cir- 
culars of the 28th of October and the 8th of November, and of the decrees is- 
sued at the last date. 



312 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

These supreme dispositions will be rigorously adhered to by this State under 
my command, for in them we see security to the nation, and the responsibility 
of those who have abandoned the republic at a critical moment and gone abroad. 
These excellent decrees have been ordered to be circulated in the districts, 
and by general order among the united brigades of Sinaloa and Jalisco. 
, 1 make this communication to you for the information of the supreme magis- 
trate of the nation. 

Independence and liberty ! 

DOMINGO RUBI. 
F. SEPULVEDA, Secretary. 
The Citizen Minister of Foreign Relations and Government, 

Chihuahua. 



[Enclosure No. 4.] 

Republican Army, Headquarters of the 

United Brigades of Sinaloa and Jalisco, 

Concordia, December 24, 1865. 
The circulars and supreme decrees, issued on the 28th of October and 8th of 
November from your department, have been received. The good sense of the 
nation will see in these documents security for the supreme authority of the 
nation, and a protection to the defenders of national independence, in contrast 
to those who, bearing the name of soldiers of the republic, desert the flag and 
leave the country. 

These supreme dispositions shall be made known by general order to the men 
of the united brigades of Sinaloa and Jalisco. 

I make this communication to you for the information of the supreme magis- 
trate of the nation. 

Independence and liberty ! 

RAMON CORONA. 
The Citizen Minister of Foreign Relations and Government, 

Chihuahua. 



[Enclosure No. 5. — Translation.] 

The feople of Tabasco anal citizen Benito Juarez — acts requesting him to- 
remain in office till the end of the war. 

Tabasco, 1866. 
Third seal. — Fee, four reals. — Executed in the principal administration of Ta- 
basco, for the years 1866 and 1867. 

The governor and military commander of the State of Tabasco assembled the 
inhabitants of San Juan Bautista on the 4th of March, 1866, to ascertain if they 
were in favor of prolonging the presidential term of citizen Benito Juarez, con- 
stitutional President of the Mexican republic, according to decrees issued at 
Paso del Norte, on the 8th of November last ; and to organize the meeting, the 
governor was called to the chair, and Juan R. de la Rosa was named secretary. 

The decree having been read aloud, the object of the meeting being for that 
purpose, and all present having manifested their will in favor of prolonging the 
presidential functions of citizen Benito Juarez, the following resolutions were 
passed unanimously : 

1st. The inhabitants of the capital of the State of Tabasco support with all 
their will and all their strength the decree issued on the 8th of November, 
1865, by citizen Benito Juarez, prolonging his presidential term, till circum- 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 



313 



stances allow tlie nation to hold a constitutional election for his successor ; and 
the inhabitants of the capital of Tabasco acknowledge no other authority than 
that now exercised by citizen Benito Juarez.' 

2d. The same people of Tabasco express their full confidence in citizen Benito 
Juarez, and thank him for the constancy and abnegation with which he has de- 
fended the independence and autonomy of the nation. 

And thereby this act was concluded and signed by those present, with me, 
the secretary, to which I certify. 



G. Mendez. 

M, M. Moreno. 

Coruelio Castillo. 

Mariano Pedrero, esq. 

Francisco de P. Aguilar. 

Jose Payro, esq. 

Justo F. Santa Anna. 

Tomas Pellicer. . 

Carlos Zepeda. 

J. M. de Codes. 

Felomeno Lopez de Aguado. 

Rafal Oviedo, esq. 

J. A. Paillet. 

Sebastian G. Sanarao. 

Prudencio P. Rosado. 

Carlos Miguel. 

Isidro Delgado. 

Mateo Pimienta. 

Felipe Gonzalez. 

J. M. Carretino. 

F. Sosa Barbosa. 

Manuel A. Peralta. 

Juan A. Prado. 

M. Payan Ortiz. 

Antonio Abad Hernandez. 

Leon Alejo Torre. 

Ignacio Mayo. 

Ziburcio Vazquez. 

Olivero Figueroa. 

Manuel M. Lombardini. 

Marcelino Garcia. 

Jose M. Burelo. 

Vicente Damas. 

Emetrio Fabre. 

Feliciano A. Cao. 

J. Longino Diaz. 

Anastacio Arjona. 

Timoteo Sauchez. 

M. Silenciario Rodriguez. 

Manuel G. Fuentes. 

Felix Amador Diaz. 

Estanislao Jimenez. 

Joaquin Garcia. 

A. Martinez Marin. 

Nicolas Herrera Morales. 

Manuel Mayo. 

Antonio Jesus Diaz. 



Pedro Fuentes. 

Isidoro Alfaro. 

Tranquilino de la Rosa. 

Jose Eugenio Garcia. 

Nicolas Hernandez. 

Meregildo Chable. 

Jose Isaac Martinez. 

Fernando Lozaro. 

Cenobio. 

Jimenez. 

Casiano Gomez. 

Matias Mayo, for Jose Brandespino. 

Ignacio Herrera. 

Onofre Garcia. 

Jose Trinidad Hernandez. 

Jose M. Flores. 

Roman Romero, for self and Francisco 

Cana. 
Juan D. Marufo. 
Eusebio Bautista. 
Jose M. Jimenez. 
Santiago Rove. 
Avelino Lopez. 
E. Santa Maria. 
Norveto Osorio, for Placido Gonzalez, 

Bernabe Figuel, and Meliton Suarez 
Canuto Balle. 
Crescencio Ramon. 
J. V. Altamirano. 
Telesforo Valle. 
Loreto Pinzon* 
Manuel de Dios. 
Eleuterio Jimenez. 
Mauricio Gonzalez. 
Estevan Garcia, 
Francisco Magana, and 
Estanislas Garcia. 
Jose J. Alfaro. 
Doroteo Ortiz. 

Mauricio Landero, for self and father. 
Felicito Landero. 
For me and the citizens Bonifacio de 

la Cruz, Gregorio Jimenez, Andres 

Bautista, Loreto Isquierdo. 
Evaristo Hernandez, 
Pragedis Galicia, 
Jose de la Cruz Galicia, 



314 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO, 



Bernabe Canto. 

Juan Morales, for self and Victoriano 

Perez. 
Juan de la 0. Torres. 
Trinidad Sevilla. 
Ricardo Pena, for self and Bentura 

Garllardo. 
Jose M. Pagani. 
Antonio Gonzales. 
Jose M. Codes, for Damasio Jesus 

and Felipe Lazaro. 
Felipe de J. Lopez. 
Florentino Camacho. 
Ponciano de la Torre. 
Manuel Lara. 
Tranquilino Perez. 
Manuel Olan, for TJrbano Notario, 

Eustaquio Chapuz, Francisco Ca- 

brales and Saturno Geronimo. 
Jose M. Garcia. 
P. Sanlucas Perez, for Benigno Mon- 

dragon, Francisco Jesus, Gregorio 

Cupido and Hilario Arias. 
Alejandro Loreto. 
Manuel J. Falcon. 
Toribio Osorio. 
Pablo Castaldi. 
Vicente Jimenez. 
Juan Medrauo. 
Piedad Osorio. 
Antonio Garcia. 
Nicolas Romero. 
Casimiro Ramon. 
Estanislas Martinez. 
Jose Augustin. 
Hilario Arias. 
Ildefonso Arias. 
Lazaro Garcia. 
Aniceto Oliva. 
Catalino Osorio. 
Juan Garciliano. 
Isidoro Hernandez. 
Casme Morales. 
Roque Garcia. 
Leonardo Ramirez. 
Teodoro de los Santos. 
Jose del Carmen Baliaje. 
Julian Zavala. 
Eleuterio Ramos. 
Liberato Rodas. 
Josd Osorio. 
Pedro Baez. 
Ricardo Ramon. 
Maximiano Garcia. 
Encarnacion Oliva. 
Patricio Roda. 



Fiburcio Mendoza, 

Jose de la Cruz Gomez, and 

Pedro Sancbez. 

Jose Julian Perez. 

Augustin Cortez. 

Manuel Loebesega. 

For me and Marcos Cruces, Caifdela- 
rio Jimenez. 

For my father Martin, Sabino Mar- 
tinez. 

J. Cenobio Alvarez. 

Servulo E. Castro. 

For citizen Isidor Garcia, Servulo E. 
Castro, Meliton Gomez. 

J. Leon Mendez. 

Joaquin Tellez. 

Prudencio de la Rosa. 

Jose Gil Ramos. 

For citizens Lazaro Mendoza, Nicolas 
Corzo. 

Victorio Chable. 

Benigno Mendoza. 

Jose Maria Ramon. 

Clemente Ramon. 

Victoriano Ramos. 

Faustino Garcia. 

Paufilo Perez. 

Juan Garcia. 

Manuel Lopez. 

Frederico Lopez. 

Jose A. Jimenez. 

Antonio de la Cruz. 

Santiago Loreto. 

Vicente Osorio. 

Maria Mendoza. 

Cosme Morales. . 

Tenorio Jimenez. 

Juan Mondragon Canon. 

Eusebio Osorio. 

Augustin Roche. 

Juan de la Cruz Sanchez. 

Eduardo Mendoza. 

For me and Gregorio Dominguez, 
Francisco S. Leal, Severino San- 
chez, Antonio Soler, Sisto Cordero, 
Victoriano Olivas, Marcial Gil Mor- 
gas, Amego del C. Isaac Sandoval, 
and for me, Pablo Estrada. 

Amieto Guzman. 

Victorio Garcia. 

Ruperto Mendoza. 

Remigio Carraseo. 

Justo Perez. 

Jose M. Gonzales. 

Aniceto Jimenez. 

Teodoro Mayo. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 



315 



Juan Jose Perez, and 
Ildefonso Geronimo, and 
Prudeucio de la Cruz. 
Saturno Geronimo. 
Rafael Lopez. 
Pedro Osorio. 
Tomas Sosa Ortiz. 
Felipe S. Dias. 
Domingo G. Mag-ana, 
Dolores Ramos.. 
Sylvestre Perez. 
Engenio Carrillo. 
Natividad Ramos. 
Perfecto Gil. 
Manuel Galvez. 
Manuel R. Valenznela. 
Jose Natividad Rodriguez. 
Fidencio Hernandez. 
Manuel Morales. 

Juan R. de la Rosa, Secretary. 



Pablo V. Ortiz. 

For me and citizens Juan Pedro Leon 
and Matias Barriento, Aniceto Cor- 
rea. 
Santiago P. Nunez. . 
Ignacio Velazquez. 
Faustino Interiano. 
Felipe Zurita. 
Canuto Sanchez. 
Amador Morales. 
Filomeno Cordova. 
Jose M. Argaes. 

For me and citizens Perfecto de Dies, 
Caetano Barriento, Fiburcio Juarez, 
Frodan R. Hernandez. 
G. Forralba. 
Candelario Vesa. 
Prospero Diaz. 
C. Callejas. 



[Enclosure No. 6. j 

In tbe city of San Antonio de Cardenas, on the 25th of February, 1866, I, 
Jose Leandro Dominguez, acting subaltern chief of this place, intending to give 
due effect to the superior disposition from the headquarters of the eastern line 
relative to the Mexicans in this State, declare freely their opinion whether or 
not they agree that the well-deserving citizen Benito Juarez shall continue to 
exercise the presidency in accordance with the supreme decree issued by him in 
Paso del Norte on the 8th of November last, and in conformity with the su- 
perior consent of tbe government of the State, communicated to us by the chief 
prefect of the district, have summoned all the inhabitants within the jurisdic- 
tion of this city for that purpose, who being present and being informed of the 
opinion of the headquarters of the eastern line, and of the circumstances that 
caused the prolongation, by decree, of the presidency of the well-deserving 
citizen Benito Juarez, who by his heroism, constancy, abnegation, and patriotism 
has lent such important services to the nation, particularly in the present foreign 
war, by which he has earned the title of well-deserving of the Americas, they 
declared unanimously that they accept in all form the mentioned supreme decree, 
issued at Paso del Norte on the Sth November, 1S65, and by the same they 
recognize and will recognize citizen Benito Juarez as President of the Mexican 
republic, in conformity with article 1st of the supreme decree already mentioned. 
And to confirm it, they all sign with me, giving as concluded this act, which 
will be sent in original to the governor of the State, to act upon it as he may 
think proper. 



L. Dominguez. 
P. Valenzuela. 
P. J. Sanchez. 
Manuel A. Hernandez. 
Candelario Ibarra. 
Jose D. Casanoba. 
Francisco G. Echoegaray. 
Gumecindo Ren don. 
Augustin de la Fuente. 
Francisco Romero. 



"Wiuceslao Ojeda. 
Ramon A. Echalaz. 
R. E, Cecia. 
Teodoro Rosaldo. 
Miguel Hernandez. 
Jose M. Lopez. 
Mariano Alfaro. 
Rufmo Tua. 
Andres Casino. 
Comelio Gamas- 



316 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

Juan G. Sanchez. Jose M. Fleite. 

Francisco Casanova. Miguel Lara. 

Eufino Perez. Pedro Sanches Gallegos. 

Gregorio Sanchez. Pedro Torres. 

Juan Gongora. Francisco P. y Zapata. 

Marcos F. Rosales. Pedro 0. P. y Lopez, by order of my 

Macedonio Cortes. father Manuel Gallegos, for myself 

Manuel Palma. . and citizens Pioquinto Cuevas and 

Guillermo Colorado. Pioquinto Ortiz, who cannot write. 

Casiano Guzman. Antonio Ruiz, for myself and the po 

Salvador Novarola. liceman Roman Perez, Feliciano 

Felipe Gonzales. Aguilar, and Anastacio Lopez, who 

Dolores Gallegos. cannot write. 

J. Crescendo Zapatos. Hilario Fuentes. 

Antonio Veer. Eligio Gamas. 

Manuel Orlaineta. Ramon Rodriguez. 



[Enclosure No. 7.] 

In the city of Santiago de Teapa, of the free and sovereign State of Tabasco, 
on the 25th of February, 1866, the principal inhabitants of the district assembled 
In the City Hall, by invitation of the civil prefect, to learn public opinion in re- 
gard to the decree of the 8th of November last, in Avhich citizen Benito Juarez, 
constitutional President of the republic, for just reasons of necessity, which 
he gives, has been forced to prolong the supreme government of the republic 
in his own person. The decree in question having been read, and the one of 
the same date deposing citizen Jesus Gonzalez Ortega from his place of presi- 
dent of the supreme court of justice, and the official note of the commander of 
the eastern line, which says that General Jesus Gonzalez Ortega, as president 
of the court of justice, protested in the United States against the decree that 
prolongs the presidency of the person now holding the office, the presiding 
authority observed that the people of the present meeting could now express 
their opinions and wishes freely and voluntarily in regard to the continuation 
in office of citizen Benito Juarez, interim President of the republic. By virtue 
of the full powers with which he is invested, and the necessity of not leaving 
the government without a head, he was compelled to issue the decree that had 
been read; and all the citizens present unanimously, without dissent and 
without discussion, (for it was deemed unnecessary,) adopted the following 
resolutions t 

Article 1. Citizen Benito Juarez is recognized, received, and obeyed as 
President of the Mexican republic till it can be freed from its enemies, now 
occupying a large portion of its territory by force of arms, and till a new con- 
stitutional election for a chief of the republic can take place. 

Art. 2. A vote of thanks is given to the well-deserving citizen Benito Juarez, 
for his self-denial and the many sacrifices he has made of his person on the altar 
of his country by continuing in the supreme command of the republic while it 
is laboring under its present trials and tribulations. 

Art. 3. An act is made out containing these resolutions, the original of which 
is to be sent to the citizen governor and military commander of the State, through 
the proper source, and for consequent action. 

And thereby this act closes, all present signing it. 

Jose M. Bastar. Cecilio Pedrero. 

Silverio R. Garido. Ramon J. Pedrero. 

Fernando Carrillo. Evaristo Carrera. 

Augustin Figueroa. Rudecindo R. Carrillo. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 



317 



Joaquin Gonzalez. 
Julian Castro. 
Cristobal Castro. 
Juan M. Pinto. 
Jose Hipolito Ramos. 
Ramon F. Palavicini, 
Jose Becerra. 
M. Zapata. 
Tomas Casanova. 
Augustin Gonzalez. 
Francisco Quintero. 
Luis M. del Valle. 
Juan Pio Zurita. 
Fulgencio Palavicini. 
Augustin Roca. 
J. Victor Fernandez. 
Geronimo Ricalde. 
Manuel Melo. 
Gabiiel Berrueta. 
Benigno Palavicini. 
Segunclo Palavicini. 
Miguel N. Casanova. 
C. Giorgana. 
P. Vuelta. 
A. Conde. 



Fulgencio E. Casanova. 

Nicolas Padilla. 

Juan M. Pinto, for Simeon Rodriguez. 

Manuel Arrivillaga. 

Ramon F. Palavicini, for Leon Mendez. 

Vicente F. Melo. 

N. Resendes. 

Felix A. de Castro. 

Ramon F. Ramos. 

Sebastian Zapata. 

Pedro Medina. 

Marcelino Gonzalez. 

Jose Puig y Sevilla. 

Manuel R. Solis. 

Rafael Giorgana. 

Eduardo Bastar. 

M. Saturnino Basan. 

Clemente Hernandez. 

Jose Arguelles. 

Tiburcio Carrera. 

M. de la Flor. 

Anselmo Escobar. 

Jose Gurria. 

Jose Prats. 



Bernardo de Aguila, Secretary. 



[Enclosure No. 8. j 

In tlie town of Navidad de Cunduacan, on the 27tli of February, 1S66, a 
considerable number of citizens assembled in the ball of tbe civil prefect, to con- 
sider a circular issued by tbe general-in-cbief of tbe eastern line, on tbe 1st in- 
stant, and sent to tbe supreme government of tbe State, requiring tbe people to 
express their sentiments freely in regard to tbe permanency of citizen Juarez in 
tbe office of President of tbe republic, till tbe conclusion of the present war. 

First. The town of Cunduacan acknowledges citizen Benito Juarez as the 
only legitimate President of the republic, by virtue of the decree which he was 
pleased to issue on the 8th of November last, at Pas-o del Norte, and by which 
he now exercises tbe functions of President of the republic. 

Second. The town of Cunduacan gives its vote of confidence in the worthy 
President, citizen Benito Juarez, for the energy and firmness with which he has 
sustained the flag and honor of the republic against foreign invasion. 

Third. In conformity with the mandate of the superior government of the 
State in the said circular, the present act is addressed to him in original by the 
civil prefect. 

Rafael A. Quevedo. 

For myself and Locadio Ruis, Rafael 
Taraseno. 

For me and Mr. Eugenio Sanchez, 
Wenseslao Fuentes. 

C. de la Fuentes. 

Concepcion Reyes. 

Francisco Fuentes. 

Sebastian Garcia. 



Noverto Fuentos. 
Francisco Burelo. 
Manuel Priego. 
S. Alpuin. 
Evaristo Trujillo. 
Jose del C. Sastre. 
Santos Cruces. 
Isidro Naranjo. 
Jose Martin Cupido. 



318 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

For me and citizen Francisco Madri, For me and citizen Juan Crisostomo 

Miguel Lopez. Fuentes, Mariano Inuireta. 

Pedro Cabrera. Antonio Angles. 

For me and Annario Presenda, Jose For me and Manuel Taracena, Jose 

de Jesus Ross. M. Oollado. 

For me and citizen Leandro de Dios, For me and Jose Garcia, Gregorio 

Jose Z. Marin. Basso. 

For me and Serapio Custodio, Jose Juan de Dios Lopez. 

M. Cupido. Juan de N. Aguilar. 

E. Presenda. For me and citizen Jose Jesus Zapata, 

Antonio Cabrera. Juan G. Taracena. 

Deciderio G. Rosado, Jose Bernardo Aparicio. 

Presbitero Manuel Sabine Contreras. Arcadio Zentella. 

M. Sanchez Marmol. Sarapio E. Zentella. 

Pedro F. Heredia. Jose M. B. Angle. , 

Jose M. A. Angle. Francisco Pareira Sastre. 

Jose Angel Cortasa. For me, Rev. Father Silvestre Va- 

Juan E. Priego. lenzuela, and for me, Alejandro 

Procopio T. y Torres, Valenzuela, Manuel Fuentes. 

Federico Guzman. Miguel Torres Mazo. 

Manuel Crespo. Marcelino Gutierrez. 

Caciano Cruz de la PeSa„ Bartolome Victorica. 



[Enclosure No. 9.] 

In the town of San Isidro Comalcalco, en the 25th of February, 1866, the 
people of the place assembled in the Town Hall, by summons of the civil pre- 
fect, from an order of the superior State government, dated the 17th instant; 
and the circular of the general-in-chief of the eastern line having been read to 
the people assembled, in regard to the protest of citizen Jesus Gonzalez Ortega 
against the supreme decree issued by citizen Benito Juarez, prolonging his 
functions as President of the republic as long as tne cruel war waged against 
us by France may last, endeavoring to impose an imperial government upon 
us ; and the meeting having been addressed by the civil chief, stating that the 
persons present were requested to give their opinions upon these questions, of 
so much importance in the present condition of the country, the following reso- 
lutions were unanimously adopted : 

1. Citizen Benito Juarez is recognized as President of the republic, because 
he is the only person in whom the Mexicans have confidence, as with so much 
faith and abnegation he has supported the national cause and sustained the flag 
of his country. 

2. The pretensions of General Gonzalez Ortega to assume the presidency of 
the nation by right of his position as president of the supreme court of justice, 
is disavowed and rejected, as he was not in the country at the time. 

3. Let this act be communicated to the citizen governor of the State, as the 
free vote of the inhabitants of the town of Comalcalco, and in accordance with 
the will of all Mexicans faithful to the national cause. 

And thereby this act closes, and is signed by all citizens present, and by me, 
the secretary, who certify it. 

Victor Gonzales, Francisco Hernandez Ubaldo Gon- 

P. Mendez, zalez. 

B. Fuente. Perfecto Diaz Asenso. 

Jose A. Ferrer. Aniceto Cordova. 

Miguel Bosada, Jose Mariano Hernandez. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 



319 



Francisco Chapus. 
Cenon de los Santos. 
Jose M. Arjona. 
Jose M. Graniel. 
Pascual Villanueva. 
Simon A. Garcia. 
Estevan Garcia. 
Domingo Ceballos. 
Manuel Flores. 
Evaristo Enrique. 
Manuel A. Martinez. 
Sebastian Burelo. 
Juan J. Arevalo. 
Francisco M. Oollado. 
Luis Gonzalez Gongola. 
Andreas Ceballas. 
Federico Gomez. 
Angel Peralta. 
R. Rojo. 
F. Canton. 
Anatasio Flores. 



Onesifero Diaz y Pinson. 
Felipe B. Oalderon. 
Jose Maria Perez Romero. 
J. Dionisio Prado Pacbeco. 
Pedro Mendez Boza. 
Faustino Perez Romero. 
Nicolas Suarez. 
Carmen Mendez. 
Faustino Alonzo. 
Manuel Perez. 
Matias M. Hernandez. 
Teodoro Perez. 
Pedro J. Fernandez. 
Jesus Prado Pacbeco. 
Julian Gil y Tantos. 
Feliciano Cordova. 
Mamerto Gonzales. 
J. Rafael Martinez. 
Jose A. Gonzales. 
Jose Dionisio Castellano, 



[Enclosiu-e No. 10.1 

In the town of San Antonio de Padua de Nacajuca, on the 28th of February, 
I860, the inhabitants assembled in the Prefects' Hall to consider a circular from 
the governor and military commander of the State, dated the 17th, and contain- 
ing a note from the general-in-chief and military commander of the eastern line, 
of the 1st, stating the disagreeable and serious question that has arisen in the 
country, and even outside of it, in consequence of the protest of General Jesus 
Gonzalez Ortega, while in the United States, against the decrees of the supreme 
government of the republic, of the 8th of November last, and aspiring to the su- 
preme magistracy, as president of the court of justice ; and the documents having 
been read, the civil chief invited those present to express their opinions, in ac- 
cordance with the wish of the circular. The vote was unanimous for citizen 
Benito Juarez, the legitimate president of the republic, to continue in office till a 
new election could take place. 

And thereby this act concluded, and is signed by all present, and certified to 
by me, the secretary. 



Jose del R. Perez. 
R. Leon. 
Hilario Leyva. 
Jose M. Ramon. 
Matias Ybancovich. 
Melecio Denis. 
Perfecto Ramon. 
P. Ferrer. 
Manuel R. Alvarez. 
Claudio Rodriguez. 
Eusebio Ruiz. 
Ildefonso Esperon. 
Manuel A. Mendez. 
Manuel A. de Leon. 
At the request of Francisco Marquez, 
Manuel A. de Leon. 



For citizens Mariano Olan, Jose Sa- 
lome Lopez, Manuel Lopez, Juan 
Mogana, Narciso Garcia, Gaspar 
Lopez, Claudio Brabata, Gabino 
Sanchez, Domingo Burelo, Jose 
Quirino Soberano, Hilario Leyva. 

For citizens Cecilio Perez, Urbano 
Marquez. Manuel Aumada, (can't 
write,) Autonio Esperon. 

Candelario Flores. 

For citizens Jose Antonio Soberano 
Yannario Sanchez, Jose Amado 
Ribera, Francisco Cupil and Epig- 
menio Burelo, Jose M. Fueutes. 

Manuel C. Diaz. 

Jose Contreras. 



320 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 



For 0. Feliciano Lazaro, same. 

Jose M. Arias. 

Cruz Mier y Celis. 

Justo Sanchez. 

C. Flores. 

Augustin Gomez. 

J. H. Leoniso. 

Baltazar Hernandez. 

Marcos Ney. 

Carlos Frias. 

Felix Marquez. 

Manuel Olan. 

For my father, Manuel Eodriguez, 

Orecencio Perez. 
For J. del C. Olan, Manuel A. Mendez. 
Manuel Mendez Varga. 

Jose M. Fuentes, Secretary. 



Manuel R. Rizo. 

Juan de D. Gomez. 

Raymundo Gordillo. 

Juan Cordova. 

Rosalino Olan. 

Jose Maria Clemente. 

Marcos Perez. 

Francisco Magdonel. 

Jose del Rosario. 

G. Perez. 

B. de J. Leon. 

Juan Crisostomo Isidro. 

Domingo Gomez. 

Jose Rio Pena.. 

Gabino Ramon. 

Cirilo May. 

J. Luis Ramon. 



[Enclosure No. 11.] 

In the town of Huimanguillo, chief town of the district of the same name, 
on the 4th of March, 1866, the authorities and inhabitants, together with the 
people of Riberas, met to consider the governor's circular of the 26th February, 
requesting the opinion of the people whether citizen Benito Juarez shall con- 
tinue as President of the nation till the end of the present war. The vote 
having been taken, it was unanimously agreed that Juarez, who had sustained 
the national cause under such trying circumstances, should retain the presidency 
till the close of the war. 

And thereupon the present act was concluded and signed by all present and 
by me, the secretary, to Avhich I testify™ 



Jose M. Sol. 
F. Tronco Montero. 
Francisco de S. Colorado. 
Bruno Girodo. 
Bernardino Fuentes. 
Francisco Molina. 
Crescendo D. Gallegos. 
Antonio del Valle. 
J. Salomon Reyes. 
Francisco Mendez, 
Jose Pidad Gallegos. 
Guadalupe Pardo. 
Jose Angel Calles. 
Miguel A. Gonzali. 
Mariano Colorado. 
Ignacio Lara. 
Julian Cadenas. 
Quirino Mendez. 
Celso Montiel. 
Pablo Sanchez. 
Jose M. Lopez. 
Pablo Alpuche. 



Anastasio Hernandez. 
Anselmo Hernandez. 
Jose M. Morales. 
Pedro Priani. 
Macedonio Acuna. 
Juan B. Perez. 
Amado Palma. 
Vicente Aguilar. 
Feliciano Garcia. 
Gabriel Salaya. 
Dimicio Sanchez. 
Francisco Troncoso. 
Juan Campo Seco. 
Francisco Rueda. 
Lorenzo Contreras. 
Jose Aguilar. 
Felipe S. Fuentes. 
Patricio Cortasa. 
Amado Bettran. 
Rafael Diaz. 
Carmen Hernandez. 
Manuel Garduzar. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 



321 



[Enclosure No. 12. ] 

In the town of Balancan, chief pi .ice of the district of the same name, on 
the 25th of February, 1866, the inhabitants assembled in a place designated by 
the chief civil functionary, where a communication from the citizen governor 
and military commander of the State, dated the 17th instant, with another from 
the headquarters of the eastern line, dated the 1st, was read, the substance of 
which was, that citizen Benito Juarez, by a decree of the 8th of November of 
last year, had prolonged his powers as president of the Mexican republic, as 
an election could not take place, as prescribed by the fundamental charter of the 
nation, as long as this war lasted ; and the vote having been taken, it was freely 
and unanimously declared that the well-deserving citizen Benito Juarez should 
retain the presidency of the republic till the termination of the war. 

And thereupon this act was concluded and signed by all present, with the 
proper authentication. 

For citizens Francisco de la Cruz, 
Genaro Moreno, Ciriaco Jimenez, 
and Candelario Martinez. 
For citizens Jose Cano, Telesforo 
Ordones, and Baltasar Masariego, 
Francisco Abreu. 
Luis Rodriguez. 

At the request of citizens Ambrosio 
Dorantes, Espiridon Acate, Car- 
men Alias, Jose J. Terron, and 
Miquel Ramirez, Luis Rodriguez. 
Nicolas Baesa. 
Manuel Zetina. 
At the request of citizen Marcello Ri- 

bera, Francisco Moreno. 
Roman Perez. 
Segundo Baeza. 
For citizen Iguacio Losa, J. Dionisio 

Ramirez. 
Juan E. Perez. 
Antonio Barroso. 



C. N. Ramirez. 

D. Gutierrez Julian Quintero. 
Mignel A. Bustamente. 
Severo Arevalo. 
Calisto J. Rubio. 
Joaquin Alcocer. 
Candelario Martinez. 
Sisto Argaez. 
Francisco Lisarraga. 
Jose M. Tonsutn. 
Domingo L. de Llergo. 
Francisco Abreu. 
Roman Parra. 
Juan P. Rivera. 
Vicente Moreno. 
For citizens Juan P. Rivera, Anasta- 

sio Alpuche, Evaristo Lazaro, and 

Francisco E. Lisarraga. 
Felipe Garcia. 
Faustino Solano. 

J. Domingo Ramirez, Secretary. 



[Enclosure No. 13.] 

In the town of Jalpa, capital of the district of the same name, on the 25th 
of February, 1866, the undersigned citizens assembled, Tinder the presidency of 
the chief civil authority, and the meeting being called to order, the circular 
from the headquarters of the eastern line was read, requesting the free expres- 
sion of opinion about the continuation of citizen Benito Juarez in office as 
President of the republic, in accordance with the decree of the 8th of Novem- 
ber last ; and considering that nothing is more just than to confirm, by popular 
vote, the worthy citizen who has given so many proofs of loyalty, patriotism, 
and abnegation in the sacred cause sustained by the nation, in his office, and to 
declare that the continuation of citizen Benito Juarez in power, under present 
circumstances, is in fact a guarantee of national independence and acknowl- 
edged principles, have proposed and adopted the following resolutions : 
21 MEX. 



322 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 



Art. 1. The inhabitants of this place unanimously favor the permanency of 
citizen Benito Juarez in the office of first magistrate of the nation, according 
to the principles established in the supreme decree before mentioned. 

Art. 2. Let the original of this act be addressed to the citizen governor and 
military commander of the State for his superior information and consequent 
action. 

Done in duplicate, and signed by all present, and attested by the secretary. 



Feliciana Martinez. 
Jose Rafael Ferrer. 
J. Maricio Ferrer. 
Manuel M. Caralvo. 
Antonio Ortiz. 
Sisto Garcia. 
Jose Antonio Zapata. 
Vicente Ferrer. 
Pomposo Martinez. 
Francisco Ferrer. 
Ramon Guzman. 
Vicente Hernandez. 
Jose A. Garcia. 
Pablo A Marquez. 
Jose A. Dominguez. 
J. Eligio Alejandro. 
Claudio Vasquez. 
Jose M. Vasquez. 
Manuel Garcia. 
Pedro A. Gonzalez. 
Jose M. Guzman. 
Macedonio Hernandez. 
J. Rafael Caraveo. 
Juan J. Guzman. 
Nicolas Hernandez. 
Juan E. Perez. 
Fernando Carillo. 
Antonio Vira. 
Cresuncio Majaiia. 
Jose D. Guzman, Secretary. 



Excequiel Gomez. 

J. Victor Magana. 

Fidencio Ferrer. 

J. M. Ferrer. 

J. del Rosario Ferrer, 

Jose del C. Ferrer. 

Jose Leandro Vinagre. 

Francisco Dominguez. 

Jose Jesus Martinez. 

Cecilio Dominguez. 

Andres Gonzalez. 

J. Inez Castillo. 

J. Guadalupe Lopez. 

For my step-father, Victor Lopez, and 
the people of the Palma ward, Juan 
J. Montejo. 

For citizen Clemente Ramon, and at 
the request of citizens of Cande- 
laria ward, Juan J. Montejo. 

For citizen Estanislas Hernandez, and 
at the request of cit'zens of St. Luis 
ward, Juan J. Montejo. 

For citizen Pioquinto Mendez, and at 
the request of citizens of Santa 
Anna ward, Juan J. Montejo. 

At the request of citizen Aniceto de 
la Cruz, Jose D. Guzman. 

On the petition of citizen Pedro Ale- 
jandro, J. Rafael Caraveo. 



[Enclosure No. 14.1 

In the town of San Marcos del Paraiso, on the 25th of February, 1866, a 
great number of inhabitants having met in the City Hall by special invitation of 
citizen Faustino Morales, subaltern civil chief of this place, who presided at the 
meeting and stated that a communication of the 25th instant, relative to the 
decrees issued by the supreme government of the republic at Paso del Norte on 
the 8th of November last, prolonging the functions of the actual President till 
the end of the foreign war, required the vote of the people thereon ; and the 
decree prosecuting General Jesus Gonzalez Ortega having been read with the 
other, the vote was taken whether citizen Benito Juarez should continue to hold 
the supreme power of the republic. It was resolved that as there were good and 
powerful reasons for the supreme government to issue those important documents, 
as, owing to a state of war, no election for his successor could take place; and 
considering that citizen Benito Juarez, for the constancy and firmness with 
which he has sustained the honor and integrity of the nation in its prolonged 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 323 

contest with France, not only deserves the public confidence of his fellow-citi- 
zens, but deserves to be made perpetual President of the magnanimous and 
powerful Mexican republic, because he has won a reputation for it far superior 
to the decrepit nations of Europe, and has sustained its standard with dignity, 
maintaining the national autonomy which has never swerved from the great 
principles contained in the code of 1857, the people therefore will that he con- 
tinue in command according to the prescriptions of the said decrees, and adopt 
the following resolutions : . ' . . 

1. The inhabitants of the town of Paraiso, loving and admiring the great civic 
virtues that adorn the enlightened citizen Benito Juarez, and having a decided" 
confidence in his loyalty, constancy, and abnegation in defence of the independ- 
ence of his country, all agree that he shall continue to direct the supreme destiny 
of the country, as directed by the decree of the 8th of November last. 

2. That a copy of this act be sent to the civil chief of the district, to be com- 
municated to the superior government of the State and to the chief of the eastern 
line, giving the opinions and votes of the subscibers. 

And thereupon the meeting adjourned, after the act had been signed by all 
present and by me, the secretary, who testifies to the same. 

Faustino Morales. Cenobio de los Santos. _ 

Francisco Mao-ana. For me and citizens Bonifacio Coliado, 

Gabino de los^Santos. Juan Hidalgo Balboa, Jose Maria 

For citizens Florencio Tejada, Jose Sanchez, and Joaquin Pelegrino, 

Angel Tejada, and Luis Alejandro, Oastulo A. Vera. 

Francisco Magana. For me and citizens Juan Dominguez, 

For citizens Jose Maria Alejandro, Luis Magaha, Sebero Perez, and 

Merced Cordova, and Ramon Perez, Claudio Carrillo, Salvador Hernan- 

Guadalupe Romero. dez, Ramon Garcia. 

Fructuoso Hernandez. For me and citizens Pablo Ab.alos, 

For citizens' Pedro Abalos, Juan To- Andres Rodriguez, Juan Diego 

mas Flores, and Oresencio Gongora, Izquierdo, and Juan Villareal, Juan 

Gavino de los Santos. B. Hernandez, Timoteo Alejandro. 

Jorge Garcia. Pablo Cancin. 

Teodosio Magana. Rafael Abalos. 

Vicente Vazque. Jose Jesus Abalos. 

For me and citizens Policarpio Do- Jose E. Alejandro. 

minguez, and Julian Dominguez, Victor Perez. 

Timoteo Alejandro, Claudio Ale- Juan Pablo Palma. 

jandro. Petronilo Perez. 

Evaristo Perez. Severo Dominguez. 

Antonio Romero. Petronilo Magana. 
Pablo de la Cruz. 

This is a true copy of the original, and I certify to it. 

PETRONILO MAGANA, 

Secretary. 



[Enclosure No. 15.] 

In the town of Santa Cruz de Chichicapa, district of Comalcalco, on the 3d 
day of March, 1866, the inhabitants assembled in the Town Hall by invitation 
of the subaltern civil chief, who read a communication from the commander of the 
eastern line, submitting an important question to the decision of the people, 
namely, the attempt of General Jesus Gonzalez Ortega to rob the presidency 
from the worthy citizen Benito Juarez. Considering that the supreme decree 
of the 8th of November last, issued in Paso del Norte, is a just and necessaVy 



324 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

measure, as it saves us from a crisis, because an election for President cannot 
take place, on account of war, in accordance with the fundamental code of 1857, 
and as citizen Juarez could not vacate the place, because citizen Gonzalez 
Ortega, who was to fill it, was absent at the time ; and whereas war should 
settle all home disputes, the people of Chichicapa, free to vote on national 
questions, have agreed upon and adopted the following resolutions : 

1. The well-deserving citizen Benito Juarez, as the only man whom the 
Mexicans have trusted and can trust, is acknowledged and shall be recognized 
as President of the repulic. 

2. We reject the protest of General Jesus Gonzalez Ortega against the su- 
preme decree of the 8th of November last, with all our energy and power. 

3. We also reject any other future protest that may be made against the acts 
of [Rest of the pamphlet is wanting.] 



No. 109. 

Mr. Seward to Mr. Bomcro. 

Department of State, 

Washington, July 7, 1866. 

Sir : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of 
the 13th ultimo, containing a copy of No. 11 of the official paper of your gov- 
ernment, publishing certain letters of Mexican citizens with regard to the decree 
prolonging the presidential term, and to thank you for the information. 

I embrace this opportunity to renew to you the assurances of my distinguished 
consideration. 

WILLIAM H. SEWAED. 

Senor Don M. Romero, fyc., fyc, fyc. 



No. 110. 
Mr. Romero to Mr. Sevjard. 

[Translation.] 

Mexican Legation in the United States, 

Washington, November 1, 1866. 

Mr. Secretary: I have the honor to enclose to you a printed pamphlet 
containing forty-nine acts of the principal official corporations, and particularly 
of the councils of the most important towns in the State of Chiapas, in the 
Mexican republic, acknowledging the legality and expediency of the decrees 
issued on the 8th of November last by the government of Mexico, in one of 
which the duration of the term of office of the President of the republic was 
extended till a popular election could take place, which was impossible at that 
time (and is yet) on account of the foreign invasion. 

With this opportunity, I am pleased to repeat to you, Mr. Secretary, the 
assurances of my most distinguished consideration. 

M. ROMERO. 

Hon. William H. Seward, fyc, fyc, fyc. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 325 



[Enclosure No. ...] 

The State of Chiapas to citizen Benito Juarez, expressing the popular senti- 
ment by approval of his decrees of the 8th of November last. 

The people of Chiapas, reposing quietly in the sincerity of their preference 
for citizen Benito Juarez as President of the republic, have accepted without 
hesitation, and even -with pleasure, the supreme decree of the 8th of November 
of last year, prolonging the presidential period during the time the hazardous 
circumstances of the present foreign war may last, and till, when the war is 
over, he who receives the popular suffrage may take charge of the government. 

It was never once presumed that the termination of the constitutional period 
of the presidency of Juarez would be the signal of alarm to the low, mean, 
miserable passions of certain statesmen, who, coveting the exalted position, 
forget their honored antecedents, their dignity of free citizens, and even the 
critical circumstances in which the republic is now struggling. The protest of 
Manuel Ruiz, ex-minister of the supreme court of justice of the nation^ and re- 
ports of other protests, only serve to increase the dislike to personalities, and 
the esteem and affection for the intelligent and virtuous Juarez, who has no 
other aspiration, no other wish, no other desire, than the safety and happiness 
of his country. The people of Chiapas, following the inclinations of their 
conscience and their heart, and in conformity with the wishes at headquarters 
of the eastern line, hastened to express their will by means of acts indicating 
their adhesion, trust, and confidence in the present worthy chief of the repub- 
lic, in whom the country has placed its hopes with just cause ; for to suspect 
a man who, during the last revolution of three years, led the people in triumph 
to the glorious conquest of the sacred principle of legality, would be to com- 
mit a crime. 

To show that the people of Chiapas are grateful, and know how to appre- 
ciate the virtues of the well-beloved citizen ; to prove to the enemies of the 
country that the heroic example set by the chief of the republic will always 
be seconded with enthusiasm by the simple but brave people who will defend 
their rights and liberties at the cost of every sacrifice ; to demonstrate to the 
ambitious, who think themselves necessary to the government, that the people 
are not now what they were in common revolutionary times, when common 
persons, such as Santa Anna, contended for power, we will let them know, once 
for all, that the people think, judge, reward, and punish ; that, taught by the 
experience of the long civil war to distinguish sincerity from hypocrisy, they 
have learned what is true patriotism, and have determined to estimate it prop- 
erly by suitable rewards, and have learned the false machinations of ambition, 
to despise them and punish them. 

The following documents show the truth of all this, as our readers will be 
pleased to find : 

Office of the Governor and Military Commander 

of the State of Chiapas, 

Comitan, March 6, 1866. 
The commander of the eastern line wrote to the governor and military com- 
mander of the State, on the 1st of February, as follows : "A serious question 
has arisen in the country and beyond it ; citizen Benito Juarez, as constitu- 
tional President of the republic, on the 8th of November last continued his 
duties as such, as you will see by the enclosed decree in the official bulletin, 
No. 29. It is said that General Jesus Gonzalez Ortega protested against the 
decree while in the United States, as president of the supreme court of justice, 
which capacity is not accorded to him by citizen Juarez, as you will see in the 
decree of the 8th of November, which is also published in the bulletin. The 



326 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

exceptional circumstances in which the present foreign war has placed the na- 
tion prevents an election of a supreme magistrate to rule the destinies of the 
country according to the constitution, and though the opinion is already formed 
at headquarters in favor of the existing order of things, because it believes that 
citizen Benito Juarez has a right to the presidency by virtue of his first elec- 
tion, in accordance with our actual laws, yet it wishes to know the opinion of 
the eastern line in the affair ; and therefore I address myself to you, to have 
the vote taken, in the manner you think most proper, of all good Mexicans 
found in the jurisdiction of your worthy command, and report to me if it con- 
forms to my opinion, for my information and consequent action." I communi- 
cate this to you by supreme command, for your information and that of authori- 
ties under you, to whom you will make it known, that they may act as their 
conscience dictates for the true interests and general good of the country. 

Country and liberty ! 

RAMIREZ. 

The Civil Chief and Military Commander 

of the Department of -. 

(The rest of the pamphlet contains the resolutions of corporations, learned 
societies, and popular meetings in nine different departments of the State of 
Chiapas, approving the decree of the 8th of November extending the presiden- 
tial term of office. The form of these resolutions has been frequently translated 
in former communications to this department.) 



[Enclosure No. 2.] 
The acts are from the following corporations : 
No. 1. Supreme court of the State of Chiapas, San Cristobal las Casas, March 

18, 1866. 
No. 2. Literary University of the same State, San Cristobal las Casas, March 
10, 1866. 

Department of Comitan. 

No. 3. Political and military command of the department of Comitan, Comitan, 

March 10, 1S66. 
No. 4. Military command of the department of Comitan, Comitan, March 6, 

1866. 
No. 5. Ayuntamiento of the department of San Bartolome de los Llanos, 

March 13, 1866. 
No. 6. Political command of the same department, March 31, 1866. 
No. 7. Ayuntamiento of Zapaluta, March 19, 1866. 
No. 8. Ayuntamiento of Zocoltenango, March 15, 1866. 
No. 9. Political command of Zocoltenango, March 15, 1866. 
No. 10. Court of the department of Comitan, April 7, 1866. 

Department of San Cristobal. 

No. 11. Ayuntamiento of San Cristobal las Casas, March 14, 1866. 

No. 12. First battalion of Chiapas, San Cristobal las Casas, March 14, 1S66. 

No. 13. Ayuntamiento of Teopisco, March 13, 1866. 

No. 14. Ayuntamiento of San Juan Bautista Chamula, March 13, 1866. 

No. 15. Ayuntamiento of San Lorenzo Zinacantan, March 21, 1S66. 

No. 16. Ayuntamiento of Amatenango, March 16, 1866. 

No. 1.7. Criminal court of San Cristobal las Casas, April 3, 1S66. , 

No. 18. Court of San Pedro Chenalko, March 17, 1866. 



39," 



CONDITION OP AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. O'l ( 

No 19. Court of Huertan, March 6, 1S66. 

No. 20. Courts of Santa Maria Magdalena, March 30, 1S66. 

No. 21. Courts of Santa Marta, March 30, 1866. 

Department of Chiapas. 

No. 22. Ayuntamiento of Chiapas city, March 14, 1866. 
No. 23. Court of the department of Chiapas, March 25, 1S66. 
Department of Tuxtla Gutierrcs. 

No 24. Ayuntamiento of Tuxtla Gutierres city, March 14, 1S66. 

No' 25. Military and political command of the department, March 14, 1S66. 

No! 26. Court of the county of Tuxtla Gutierres, March 31, 1866. 

No. 27. Ayuntamiento of Ocosocuantla, March 24, 1866. 

No'. 28. Courts of Ocosocuantla, March 24, 1S66. 

No. 29. Ayuntamiento of Zintalapa, March 27, 1866. 

No. 30. Ayuntamiento of Tomala city, March 26, 1S66. 

No. 31. Court of the Tomala county, March 20, 1866. 

No. 32. Ayuutamiento of Mapastepec, April 5, 1866.^ 

No. 33. Ayuntamiento of Pigigiappa, March 31, 1866. 

Department of Simojovel. 
No. 34. Political and military command of department, March 19, 1866. 
No. 35. Ayuntamiento of San Juan, March IS, 1866. 
No. 36. Court of Simojovel county, March 17, 1866. 
No. 37. Ayuntamiento of San Juan Bautista Istobol, March 17, 1S66. 
No. 38. Ayuntamiento of Simojovel, March 17, 1S66. 

Department of Pic/tucalco 

No. 39. Political and military command of the department, March 27, 1S66. 
No. 40. Ayuntamiento of Pichucalco, March 27, 1S66. 
No. 41. Court of the department, March 28, 1866. 
No. 42. Courts of the city of Pichucalco, March 31, 1S66. 
Department of Soconusco. 

No. 43. Ayuntamiento of Zapachula, March 28, 1866. 

No 44. Political and military command of Zapachula, March 2t 

No. 45. Ayuntamiento of Tuxtla Chico city, March 25, 1S66. 

Department of Chilon. 

No. 46. Political and military command of the department, Ocozingo city, March 

8, 1866. 
No. 47. Ayuntamiento of Chilon, April 11, 1S66. 

Department of Palenque. 

No. 4S. Ayuntamiento of Palenque, April 13, 1866. 

No. 49. Ayuutamiento of San Jose, Catasapa city, April 14, 1866. 



>S, 1S66. 



[Enclosure No. 3.] 
The governor of the State of Chiapas to the citizens of the State. 

Fellow-citizens: The supreme government of the republic having issued 
the decree of November 8, by which the powers of the actual^ President — the 
citizen Benito Juarez — are continued until a constitutional election of the person 
who can substitute him can be held, the government of this State has accepted 



328 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

it without any objection; convinced, as I feel, of the legal foundation upon 
which it is based, of the urgent necessity which authorizes it, and that, in the 
distressing circumstances through which the nation is now passing, it was not 
possible to act otherwise without sacrificing the interests of the public cause, to 
prescribe political forms established for normal times of peace. Far from this, 
and owing to the iniquitous war made against the republic, we have to act solely 
inspired by sentiments of patriotism, the only hope left to the nation in the fear- 
ful ordeal she has now to undergo. 

Nevertheless, if there are any doubts, any distrust as to the legality of the 
acts of the first magistrate of the nation, these ought to disappear before the ex- 
plicit and unanimous manifestation of the people ; and the people, free from any 
compulsion, have proclaimed his permanency in power until the causes which 
gave occasion to the decree thus sanctioned have ceased to exist, for they respect 
more the substance than the form, more the spirit than the letter of our insti- 
tutions. 

You, Chiapanecos, in the midst of the stormy crisis we have traversed, you 
have been faithful to the cause of our independence and to the illustrious genius 
who has guided with firmness the destinies of the magnanimous people which 
will elevate him for his virtues to the highest power, giving thus the best and 
most unmistakable proof of their fidelity and good sense, for the good of the 
country — for your own good. Follow, then, that path of honor and glory, and 
your conduct will always find imitators, and your acts will make a brilliant page 
in the history of the present war. 

Chiapanecos, an admirer of your noble conduct in the bitter days of misfor 
tune and trial of our beloved country, I shall always regard that conduct as a 
model of virtue — a sublime example worthy of imitation. Live, then, for your 
country. Let her triumph be the object of your constant efforts and sacrifices. 
Thus you will fulfil the duties which God has imposed upon you, and thus you 
will leave to your children a free country worthy of being inherited. 

JOSE PANTALEON DOMINGUEZ. 

TUXTLA GUT1ERRES, Apj±l 12, 1866. 

With simplicity have the documents here printed been written, but with sin- 
cerity also. The frank and spontaneous expression of a people who sanction 
with their will the decree of November 8 is registered in them, asking the per- 
manency of the illustrious citizen Don Benito Juarez in the presidency of the 
republic for the whole time during the critical situation brought about by the 
foreign war. 

The people of Chiapas have pledged themselves to die defending the flag of 
the country carried aloft by the firm hand of the President. They will keep to 
their pledge in spite of all the obstacles that the enemy may oppose, in spite of 
the miserable ambition of some bad Mexicans, because the people of Chiapas 
love with faith, with enthusiasm. 

Liberty and independence ! 



No. 111. 

Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero. 

Department of State, 

Washington, November 9, 1866. 
Sir : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of 
the 1st instant, containing various acts passed in the State of Chiapas, in the 
Mexican republic, recognizing the legality and expediency of the decrees issued 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 329 

on the 8th of last November, by the government of Mexico, in one of which the 
duration of the term of office of the President of that republic was extended until 
a public election could take place. 

I avail myself of this occasion to renew to you the assurances of my most 
distinguished consideration. 

e WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 

Sefior Don M. Romero, 8fc. } fyc., Sfc. 



No. 112. 
Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward. 

[Translation. ] 

Mexican Legation in the United States of America, 

Washington, November 21, 1S66. 

Mr. Secretary: I have the honor to transmit to you, for the information of 
the government of the United States, the documents in the annexed index, some 
of which, taken from the official paper of the Mexican government, show the 
adhesion of several States of the republic to the decree of the Sth of November, 
1865, declaring the continuance of the presidential term till a new election can 
take place. I think proper to call your attention, in a special manner, to let- 
ters addressed to me on that subject by Mr. Bias Bruzual and Mr. Domingo F. 
Sarmiento. One is, as you are aware, envoy extraordinary and minister pleni- 
potentiary of Venezuela to this country, and the other is a minister of the same 
rank from the Argentine Republic, and accredited to this government. 

Their letters you will find among the annexed documents. 

These distinguished South American statesmen, of acknowledged enlighten- 
ment, who cannot be suspected of mean interests — for they have nothing to hope 
or fear from Mexico, or any other desire, than the success of the American 
cause at large — agree upon the convenience and necessity of extending the 
presidential term till a new election can take place. 

I embrace this occasion to renew to you, Mr. Secretary, the assurance of my 
most distinguished consideration. 

° M. ROMERO. 

Hon. William H. Seward, $c, Sfc., fyc. 



;30 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 



Index of documents sent by the Mexican legation in Washington to the Depart- 
ment of State of the United States, with the note of this date, in relation to 
the decrees of the 8th of November , 1865. 



No. Date. 



Contents. 



1863. 
March 17 



March 4 
July 9 
April 13 



March 8 



1865. 
May 31 



1866. 
Nov. 16 



Nov. 21 



The governor of the State of Tabasco sends the minister of relations the act 
of adhesion of the city of San Juan Bautista to the decrees of the 8th of 
November, 1865. 

Act to which the foregoing note refers. 

Eeply of the department of relations to the governor of Tabasco. 

The consul of the republic in San Francisco, California, communicates to 
the department of relations a note from the governor of the State of Chia- 
pas, reporting the adhesion of that government to the decrees of the 8th 
of November, 1865. 

The governor of the State of Guerrero to the consul in San Francisco, Cali- 
fornia, asking him to forward the adhesion of that State to the decrees of 
the 8th November, 1865, to the general government. 

Letter from Mr. Bias Bruzual, envoy extraordinary and minister plenipo- 
tentiary of Venezuela, accredited to the govenment of the United States, 
addressed to Mr. Romero, stating his opinion that the functionaries 
elected by the people in Mexico ought to continue in the discharge of 
their duties till a new election can take place. 

Letter from Mr. Domingo F. Sarmiento, envoy extraordinary and minister 
plenipotentiary of the Argentine republic, accredited to the government 
of the United States, addressed to Mr. Romero, expressing his opinion 
that the President of Mexico ought to continue the execution of his duties 
till a new election can take place. 

Mr. Romero's answer to the above letter. 



Washington, November 21, 1866. 



IGNO. MARISCAL, Secretary. 



[Enclosure No. 1. — From the official paper of the constitutional government of the Mexican 
republic, Chihuahua, July 20, 1866, No. 2J.] 

DEPARTMENT OF FOREIGN RELATIONS AND GOVERNMENT — THE CIVIL GOVERN- 
MENT AND MILITARY COMMANDANCY OF THE STATE OF TABASCO. 

San Juan Bautista, March 17, 1866. 
I have tlie honor to transmit to your department the original act expressing 
the opinion of the people of this capital in regard to the decree issued hy the 
supreme magistrate of the republic on the Sth of last November. Have the 
kindness to make it known to the worthy magistrate who so successfully and 
constantly rules the destinies of the republic, and assure him that the sentiments 
of this government and of the people of Tabasco in general accord with his. 
Accept, therefoie, the sincere asseverations of my profound respect and esteem. 
Independence and liberty ! 

G. MENDEZ. 
The Minister of Foreign Relations and Government 

of the Republic, Paso del Norte. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 



331 



[Enclosure No ?.] 

An act drawn up in the city of San Juan Ba.utista, capital of the State of 
Tabasco, in support of the decrees of the 8th of November, 1865, prolonging 
the presidential term of citizen Benito Juarez. 

In the city of San Juan Bautista, of Tabasco, on the fourth clay of March, 
1866, the people of the capital assembled at the summons of the civil governor 
and military commander of the State, to say if they accept or not the prolong- 
ation of the presidential term decreed at El Paso del Norte, on the 8th of Novem- 
ber last, by citizen Benito Juarez, constitutional President of the United States 
of Mexico ; and having proposed, in order to make the act regular, that a pres- 
ident and secretary be named, the citizen governor was elected by acclamation 
to the first place, and citizen Juan R. de la Rosa to the second. 

The decree having been read, and all citizens present having manifested their 
will to be in favor of the continuation of the presidential functions of the citizen 
Benito Juarez, the following" resolutions were unanimously adopted : 

1. The people of the capital of the State of Tabasco support with all their 
will, and all their force, the decree issued on the 8th of November, 1865, by 
citizen Benito Juarez, prolonging the presidential term till the circumstances of 
the nation can enable a new election of some one to succeed him; and the 
people of Tabasco, in consequence, acknowledge no other legitimate authority 
than that now exercised by citizen Benito Juarez. 

2. The same people of the capital of Tabasco give a vote of supreme confi- 
dence in citizen Benito Juarez for the abnegation and constancy with which he 
has defended the independence and autonomy of the nation. 

And so this act concludes, and is signed by the present citizens, with me, the 
secretary, which I certify. 



G. Mendez. 

M. M. Moreno. 

Cornelio Castillo. 

Lawyer Mariano Pedreza. 

Francisco de P. Aguilar. 

Francisco Vidana. 

Justo F. Santa Anna. 

Thomas Fellices. 

Carlos Cebada. 

P. P. Rosado. 

J. M. de Codes. 

Filomeno Lopez de Aguado. 

Lawyer Rafael Oviedo. 

S. G. Sanaraz. 

P. A. Paillet. 

Isidro Delgado. 

Carlos Moguel. 

M. Payan Ortiz. 

Mateo Trinierete. 

Felipe Gonzales. 

J. M. Garrebino. 

Manuel. Perales. 

F. Sosa Barbosa. 

Antonio M. Hernandez. 

Ignacio Mayo. 

Tiburcio D. Vasquez. 

Oliverio Figueroa. 

Vicente Damas. 



Victoriano Peres. 

Juan Morales. 

Juan de la C. Torres 

Ventura Gallardo. 

Ricardo Pina. 

Trinidad de Sevilla. 

Antonio Gonzales. 

Jose M. Pergani. 

Darnaso Jesus. 

Felipe Lazaro., 

Felipe I. de Lopez. 

Juan A. Prado. 

Amado Morales. 

J. Medrano. 

Florentino Camacho. 

Ponciano de la Torre. 

Manuel Laray Marchena, 

Tranquilino Perez. 

Urbano Notario. 

J. Eustachio Ghapus. 

Jose Jesus Garcia. 

Jose de la Rosa Contreras. 

Eligio Mencloza. 

Nicolas Mendoza. 

Manuel D. Olan. 

Pedro Fuentes. 

Saturno Geronimo. 

Toribio Osorio. 



;32 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 



Leon A. Torres. 
Manuel M. Lombardini. 
Marcelino Garza. 
Prisciliano Jimenez. 
Lawyer Jose M. Burelo. 
Emeteris False. 
Isidoro Alfaro. 
Feliciano A. Cae. 
J. Longino Diaz. 
Anastasio Arjona. 
Manuel G. Fuentes 
M. Silenciario Rodriguez. 
Timoteo Sanchez. 
Estanislao Jimenez. 
Joaquin Garcia. 
A. Martinez Marini. 
Nicolas Herrera Morales. 
Manuel Mayo. 
Felix A. Diaz. 
Antonio Diaz. 
Bernabe Canto. 

Juan de la Rosa, Secretary. 



Benigno Mondragon. 
Francisco Jesus. 
Gregorio Cupido. 
Hilario Arias. - 
J. Sanlucas Perez. 
Pablo Oastaldi. 
Jose M Garcia. 
Vicente Jimenez. 
Alejandro Loreto. 
Tranquilino de la Rosa. 
Jose Eugenio Garcia. 
Nicolas Hernandez. 
Hermenegildo Chaves. 
S. Isaac Martinez. 
Fernando Lozano. 
Cenobio Jimenez. 
Casiano Gomez. 
Jose Brandespin. 

And one hundred and sixty-three 
others. 



[Enclosure No. 3. — Translation.] 

DEPARTMENT OF FOREIGN RELATIONS AND GOVERNMENT — GOVERNMENT 
BRANCH SECTION FIRST. 

With your despatch of the 17th of March last you sent me the act drawn 
up in the capital of your State, manifesting the approbation given to the decree 
of the 8th of November last declaring the prolongation of the term of the Pres- 
ident of the republic till the circumstances of the war will permit a new con- 
stitutional election. As expressed in the decree, it was issued because it was 
thought to conform to the spirit and provisions of the constitution, and to the 
will of the Mexican people. The citizen President justly appreciates the will 
of all the signers of the act, not only because it is spontaneous and the vote of 
free citizens, but because it is also the opinion of the government, as well as of 
the worthy sons of Tabasco, who have frequently given strong proofs of their 
patriotism in this war. 

Independence and liberty ! Chihuahua, July 9, 1S66. 

LERDO DE TEJADA. 

Citizen Gregorio Mendez, 

Governor of the State of Tabasco, at San Juan Bautista. 



[Enclosure No. 4.— From the official paper of the constitutional government of the Mexican 
republic, No. 18, Paso del Norte, May 31, 1866.] 

Department of Foreign Relations and Government, 

Consulate of Mexico in San Francisco, 

San Francisco, Ainil 13, 1866. 
J. Pantaleon Dominguez, the citizen governor of the State of Chiapas, writes 
me on the 15th of February as follows : 

" Informed of the contents of your worthy despatch of. the 15th of December 
last, and of the decrees issued by the supreme government of the republic relative 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 333 

to the prolongation of the functions of the actual President, and to the respon- 
sibility assumed by citizen General Jesus G. Ortega, I this day order this cir- 
culation and publication in the State under my command, and that they be made 
known to the citizen governors of Tabasco and Vera Cruz, to whom I also send 
your despatch and a copy of the letter written to you by the first magistrate of 
the nation. In communicating this information to you, with due respect, I have 
the honor to reproduce to you the vows of my singular appreciation and con- 
sideration." 

And I have the honor to transcribe it to you, that you may be so good as to 
place it in the knowledge of the supreme magistrate of the republic. 

I protest to you the assurances of my esteem and consideration. 

JOSE A. GODOY. 

Citizen Sebastian Lerdo de Tejada, 

Minister of Foreign Relations and Government, at Paso del Norte. 



[Enclosure No. 5.] 
GOVERNMENT OF THE STATE OF GUERRERO. 

With your despatch of the 15th of December last I have this day received 
two decrees issued by the citizen President of the republic, on the 8th of Novem- 
ber of the same year ; one of which declares the continuance of your functions 
till the condition of the war may permit a new constitutional election, and the 
other that there is cause of prosecution against General Jesus G. Ortega for 
remaining abroad without a permit from the supreme government, with the title 
of general, having resigned the place as president of the supreme court of justice ; 
and also a circular issued at the same time, explaining the fundamental causes of 
the issue of said decrees, with the copy of a private letter from the citizen Presi- 
dent recommending you to circulate the documents, and declaring his resolution 
to consecrate himself as ever to the defence of national independence, under all 
circumstances and in every emergency. 

As the reasons that induced the supreme government to issue said decrees are 
explained in the documents, and as there is no doubt the union congress has 
authorized him to issue the decrees, I will merely say to you that this govern- 
ment and all the inhabitants of the State agree that you should continue in the 
presidency of the republic on the said terms, assuring you if it had been other- 
wise it would have caused great grief in the State, which sees the principles he 
defends personified, and a certain triumph of the republican cause in the well- 
deserving citizen who has displayed so much constant energy in the defence of 
the inalienable rights of the country. 

I beg of you to make this known to the supreme government, and present my 
thanks for the patriotic resolutions, and accept for yourself my distinguished 
esteem and consideration. 

Independence and liberty ! La Providenza, March 8, 1866. 

D. ALVAREZ. 

Jose A. Godoy, 

Consul of the Republic in San Francisco, California. 



[Enclosure No. 6.] 

New York, May 31, 1S66. 
Esteemed Sir and Friend : Before leaving Washington a few days ago, 
you asked my opinion about what should be done in case the constitutional 
elections cannot take place in Mexico, on account of the occupation of many of 



334 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

the towns by the enemy that has invaded the republic. I will answer in a few 
words, for the question seems very plain to me. 

The Mexican constitution, like all democratic constitutions, consists of two 
principal parts : one establishes the authority and manner of executing it, and 
the other the periodical renovation of national official functions. If the nation 
is prevented from effecting the latter by vis major, it is not excused from obeying 
the functionaries constitutionally elected to carry on the government ; and those 
functionaries are not excused from their duties because the nation is prevented 
from complying with the precepts of the constitution for their succession. 

For this reason I think the present functionaries of the republic ought to 
continue in office as long as the nation is disabled from relieving them, accord- 
ing to the dispositions of the fundamental law. 

To think adversely would be believing in national dissolution, because an 
elective formula could not take place ; it would be believing the constitution 
could aid the invader by displacing the functionaries called to represent it and 
defend it against exterior attack. 

So far from thinking the present functionaries, chosen by popular election, 
ought to retire from their psots before the nation could relieve them, I think that 
natural law obliges them to continue in the discharge of their public duties, the 
continuation of which is prescribed by the supreme law of self-preservation. 

I am of the opinion that the authority of the high functionaries chosen by 
popular election ought to consider their offices continued till the nation is in 
a condition to relieve them ; and so the President of the United States of Mexico 
ought to declare by virtue of the power conferred upon him by the last national 
congress. 

Thus I answer your question, and subscribe myself your obedient servant, 

B. BRUZUAL. 

Mr Matias Romero. 

Washington, November 21, 1866. 



A true copy 



IGNO. MARTSCAL, Secretary. 



[Enclosure No. 7. J 

New York, November 16, 1S66. 

Dear Sir: With the greatest diffidence, by means of this letter, I comply 
with your request to state' in writing my opinion in regard to General Ortega's 
protest as president of the supreme court of justice against the decrees of Juarez 
prolonging his presidential term till a new election can take place. My want of 
confidence proceeds from the fact that most of our constitutions contain disposi- 
tions that have no precedents in those that have acquired an established juris- 
prudence by sanction of time, and I run a risk of venturing solutions to practical 
questions, that may be deemed fort ign, because the case in question is so strange. 

It is much to be desired, if Mexico recoveis her usurped territory, to have 
her constitution remodelled after those that have been tested in various countries, 
so that in cases like the present there may be sources and authorities to give 
antecedents and principles to satisfy the public conscience. 

The present condition of Mexico is a sad one! Just on the point of shaking 
off the foreign incubus, with two public powers differing in their understanding 
of an article of the constitution, in danger of falling into the flames of another 
civil war! Is it not to be feared that honest ci.izeus may embrace one or the 
other party without reflection, or as they may interpret the constitution according 
to their personal interests, or for the renovation of public powers? 

It is not the only country of Spanish America that is disputing about constitu- 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 335 

tional rights, obscured by want of plain rules that have given rise to civil wars 
and deplorable revolutions. 

For this reason it is very necessary to fix the constitutional dispositions in 
Mexico, by means of an explanation of its principles ; and to this end I wish to 
contribute the following brief considerations : 

All constitutions fix a limit to the extent of the dispositions that tend to 
insure the exercise of individual rights, and it is the preservation of the thing 
constituted the state, the nation. No disposition relating to a private interest, 
or ri°-ht, can endanger the preservation of the whole; and, therefore, when it is 
decreed that the sessions of congress shall be public — for the people have the 
privilege to know the reasons for law — it is provided they may be secret when- 
ever reasons of public convenience require it. It is the same with the first right 
of man, his personal liberty, which is guaranteed to him by the constitution 
whenever it is suspended without sufficient cause according to law ; but it is 
provided that in cases of insurrection or invasion, when public security requires 
it, the person arrested shall not be informed of the cause of his arrest. 

England and the United States acknowledge these limitations, and others too 
numerous to mention, to rights acquired by time at the cost of immense sacri- 
fices. Public safety, now threatened in Mexico, must, therefore, be the test, as 
long as the present situation continues, to prove the intrinsic value of secondary 
dispositions. The periodical change of the executive prevents the establishment 
of a despotism from habit or force ; but this precaution, laudable in peace times, 
in case of insurrection or invasion must be subordinate to the safety of the nation 
by means of force. As the part of the country that is free is under martial law, 
and the rest held by the enemy, the provisions for changing authorities are null, 
as they cannot be executed. 

The constitution of Mexico disposes that the president of the judicial power 
shall execute the duties of the executive, in its default ; and in this particular it 
differs from the other American republics, that confer the power upon the head 
of the legislature. 

The spirit of that disposition is easy to understand ; it intended to place power 
in the hands of an official who could have no interest in party questions, so that 
he could exercise no influence on the free vote of the people. 

The existence of a president of the supreme court supposes a fixed residence 
in the capital, in discharge of his official duties. Would the constitution make 
a president of the court that had no court to preside over, or no fixed residence 
in the place where the court ought to meet ? Is it a personal right granted to 
that functionary by the people, like that conferred upon the vice-president 1 No. 
The president of the supreme court of justice exercises his functions in a locality 
designated by the constitution. His name has nothing to do with the office ; 
whereas, in case of the president and vice-president, the name is everything. 
From this simple and rational principle, we ask : Can there be a president, of the 
supreme court of Mexico residing in New York, NeV Orleans, or anywhere in 
the United States ? Can the supreme court emigrate and act outside his juris- 
diction 1 Can a simple justice of the peace in Matamoras cross the Rio Grande, 
order arrests, and impose fines in the territory of the jurisdiction he has aban- 
doned 1 

It is the duty of the president of the supreme court to be always found at his 
post, by the notary, who informs him of causes under his jurisdiction. If he is 
not found, and it is known that he has left the country, the fact must be made 
known, so as to show the place is vacant, for his functions cannot follow him 
out of his jurisdiction. 

If there be a constitutional point solemnly recognized, it is certainly that the 
place is vacated when the functionary moves out of his jurisdiction. The right 
of governing England belongs to a family, and is hereditary by the laws of suc- 
cession ; and yet, when James the second left the country, going beyond the 



666 CONDITION OF AFFAIES IN MEXICO. 

limits of his kingdom, and not called out by duty, Parliament declared the throne 
vacant, and did not call his successor to fill it, because he was the heir of a 
deceased father, and not the heir of an absent person. If, then, a king ceases 
to be such by absenting himself from his country, can a judge, who has not 
officiated for years, and is living out of the country, continue to be judge? 

I must here call attention to an observation I have previously made, namely, 
that the person called by the Mexican constitution to exercise in certain cases a 
kind of regency is the president of the judicial power, and not the legislative head, 
as in most other republics. That is to say, an employe whose duties are con- 
fined to the seat of government cannot be governor of a state, general in the 
army, a traveller abroad, or an ambassador, without resigning his judgeship, the 
business of which confines him daily to his duties. Perhaps you ask, but what 
has this constitutional disposition to do with General Ortega, who appears to have 
an office abroad 1 Now come the considerations that show the danger to the 
safety of the country of offices held out of it. The person is exposed to the in- 
fluences of a foreign state, which he may use to the injury of his country, as 
is shown in the present case. General Ortega finds himself restricted in his 
pretensions by the policy of the United States, that favor Juarez. If we admit 
him to any legitimate right to the presidency, we must confess that the dignity 
of the republic has been tarnished by his imprisonment. If we take the opposite, 
and suppose him favored by the United States, we would have a President of 
Mexico under a foreign jurisdiction, and recognized by a strong neighboi giving 
him hospitality, and acting in the interests of a country that might not always 
be the interests of Mexico. 

These considerations seem to me to be of great weight in sulving the disposi- 
tions of the constitution. 

It is not now proposed to hold an election, for it is impossible. No tyranny is 
to be put down ; all that is to be done is to continue to resist foreign invasion ; 
and to succeed in this, the person who began it must remain in office, and this 
course is dictated by common sense. "Don't swap horses in crossing the stream," 
said Mr. Lincoln, in accordance with popular opinion that re-elected him to the 
presidency, so as not to derange the machinery of war, which is the executive. 

Taking advantage of the actual fact, General Ortega's high military qualities 
do not improve the present situation ; to do that, it must be so expressed by 
election, or we must suppose that a chief justice is expected to possess military- 
qualities. But the constitution does not make General Ortega regent ; it appoints 
to that office whomsoever is president of the supreme court ; and the only person 
who cannot be and ought not to be called to the presidency of the republic by 
the spirit of the constitution, while the country is struggling for independence 
against a foreign power, is the president of the supreme court of justice, who is 
supposed to be versed in the laws, to be just in his decisions, but not skilled in 
arms to defend with the sword his threatened country. Most likely Mexico is 
the only country in the world where a general is chief justice. If events should 
make it desirable to have military men as judges, the constitution would be vio- 
lated, and its intention frustrated, for the judge was to be a man having no 
party prejudices : but here we have one, a general, watching every opportunity 
to get into the presidency. 

President Juarez, now in exercise of the supreme power, carries on the war 
as President, which is not a theory of right, as is supposed, but a fixed fact that 
it would become necessary to destroy, and turn those arms that should be used 
against the common enemy against the governor of a State, the result of which 
would certainly be a deplorable civil war, and, possibly, the elevation of Gen- 
eral Ortega to the presidency. The fact that the United States do not support 
the pretender's aspirations, and continue to acknowledge the government of 
President Juarez, is of no importance to the partisans of the liberal interpretation 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 337 

of the constitution, but it is of great consequence to the people of Mexico, and for 
the success of the terrible war that is ending so gloriously. 

First save the thing constituted — that is, the country, the nation, the republic — 
that is of the greatest importance. 

Each clay has its task. When the time comes for the election of a President 
of Mexico free aud independent, then the venerable jurist who is fulfilling his 
daily duties as chief justice in the city of Mexico will be made regent during 
the interregnum of the country. It would be well for General Ortega to be at 
the head of victorious legions at that time, for I cannot think he is buried under 
the musty law tomes of his law library. 

General Ortega, in the United States, is beyond reach of the case provided for in 
the constitution. Let a general have all the influence possible; let himbe the head 
of a political party ; but he is not that president of the supreme court to whom 
the constitution proposes to trust the executive power during an interregnum. 

History has shown the troubles of regencies in war times, and the people of 
Mexico would be very unforeseeing to put such obstacles in the way of the 
present executive, embarrassing his action, only to comply with a simple rite of 
the constitution that could not provide for emergencies of such a serious nature 
as now exist. 

If there be yet doubt about the power of the executive to continue his func- 
tions during a congressional recess, or during the absence or resignation of the 
president of the judicial power, it is settled by the permanent nature of the 
office. Our constitution compels the annual meeting of the legislature. In 
some of the United States their sessions are biennial, and the English Parlia- 
ment did not order to be convoked regularly, at least once every five years, but 
in the reign of James the Second. The executive power has other rules. In 
monarchies a successor is legally named for every emergency, and a regent is 
appointed by law. " The king never dies," (mort le roy — vive le roy,J is the 
t; aditional formula to show that executive action never ceases for a moment. 
Republics provide for possible emergencies by naming a vice-president, or, in 
default, of him, presidents of the senate, or persons designated by other constitu- 
tions, succeed to the presidency. 

In the present case, where there is no death, resignation, or inability of the 
incumbent, and when no election can take place, no real interest of society re- 
quires a change of administration that might weaken the mere military power of 
the executive. On the other hand, all precepts of the constitution for ordi- 
nary cases ought to rest in abeyance, so as not to endanger the safety of the 
nation, which is of the most importance. 

1 will conclude by calling your attention to the pei*nicious effects of those 
differences from the practices of all other nations. That precept of the con- 
stitution that calls the president of the supreme court to succeed the chief ex- 
ecutive has not done the good that was expected ; for, instead of an impartial 
judge, we find in the place a general with titles, antecedents, and political de- 
signs ; and that certainly was not intended by the constitution. My opinion is, 
the best thing that can be done to provide for future events will be to suppress 
the interrex, aud create a vice president. 

With rny wishes for the prosperity of Mexico and your own happiness, I remain, 
with sentiments of particular esteem, your very obedient servant and friend, 

D. E. SARMIENTO. 

Mr. Matias Romero, 

Envoy Extraordinary and Minister 

Plenipotentiary of Mexico, in Washington. 

Washington, November, LS66. 
A true copy : 

IGNO. MARISCAL, Secretary. 

22 MKX. 



338 CONDITION OF AFFAIES IN MEXICO. 



[Enclosure No. 8. ] 

Washington, November 21, 1866. 
My Dear Sir : I had the honor to-day to receive your acceptahle letter of 
the 16th instant, in which yon express in writing, agreeably to my request, the 
opinion you gave me verbally in your visit to me on the 12th, in regard to the 
expediency and legality of the decrees issued by the President of the Mexican 
republic, on the 8th of November, 1S65, prolonging bis presidential term till a 
new election can take place. 

As your opinion is that of a distinguished South American statesman of ac- 
knowledged information and sound sense, who can have no low interest, or any 
other reason but the success of the American cause in general, it cannot fail to 
have a good effect upon persons outsit e < t JY'exico not acquainted with the sub- 
ject, and will remove some doubts concerning the pretended rights of General 
Ort'ga to the presidency of the Mexican republic. I say on persons outside of 
Mexico, because inside of the republic the opinion is unanimously in favor of 
the expediency and necessity of those decrees and considers the conduct of 
General Ortega as unpatriotic and seditious. It is a fact that no authorized 
voice in Mexico has been raised against the decrees, and it is now more than a 
year since they were issued. No military chieftain has regarded them as un- 
constitutional ; only a few discontented lugitives from the country in time of 
foreign war, and residing in the United States, support General Ortega's preten- 
sions. 

I send a copy of your letter this day to my government, and also to the State 
Department of the United States of America. 

I remain, sir, your most obsequious friend and obedient servant, 

M. ROMERO. 
Don Domingo P. Sarmiento, 

Envoy Extraorainary and Minister Plenipotentiary 

of the Argentine Republic, New York. 



A true copy 



Washington, November 21, 1866. 
IGNO. MARISC XL; Secretary. 



No. 113. 

Mr. Seward to Mr. Ilomero. 

Department of State, 

Washington, November 28, 1866. 

Sir : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of 
the 1 6 tli instant, containing a number of the official paper of the Mexican gov- 
ernment of the 22d of last October, in which is given some correspondence which 
passed between you and Sefior Lerdo de Tejada, in regard to Senor Don An- 
tonio Lopez de Santa Anna. 

I avail myself of this occasion to renew to you the assurances of my most 
distinguished consideration. 

WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 

Senor Don M. Romero, fyc, fyc, fyc. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 339 

Mo. 7. 

CONCERNING DE SANTA ANNA. 

List of papers. 

114. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward, (with two enclosure?) May 26, 1*66. 

115. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero July 6, 1866. 

116. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward, (with eleven enclosure.?) Aug. 12, 1866. 

117. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero Aug. 20, 1866. 

118. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward,' (with sixteen enclosures) .. ..Sept. 29, 1866. 

119. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero Oct. 9, 1866. 

120. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward, (with two enclosures) Nov. 16, 1866. 

121. Senor de Santa Anna to Mr. Seward Dec. 12, 1S65. 

122. Same to same May 21, 1866. 

123. Senor Mazuera to Mr. F. AY. Seward. . . May 26, 1866. 

124. Senor de Santa Anna to Mr. Seward June 26, 1866. 

125. Same to same . Aug. ] 0, 1866. 

126. Mr. Seward to Seiior de Santa Anna Aug. 16, 1866. 

127. Don Antouio Lopez de Santa Anna, jr., to Mr. Seward.. .Nov. 7, 1866. 

128. Mr. Seward to Don Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna, jr.. . .Nov. 8, 1S66. 

129. Mr. Seward to Mr. Courtney Nov. 8, 1866. 

130. Mr. Courtney to Mr. Seward Nov. 14, 1866. 

131. Mr. Seward to Seiior de Santa Anna Dec. S, 1S66. 



No. 114. 

Senor Romero to Mr. Seivard. 

[Translation. — Unofficial. J 

Mexican Legation in the United States of America, 

Washington, May 26, ] 866. . 
My Dear Sir : In conformity with the promise I made in my interview with' 
you in the State Department this morning, I have the honor to enclose the copy 
of a communication addressed to me, on the 21st instant, from Elizabethport, by 
Don Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna, in which he offers his services to the Mex- 
ican government, and my answer to it yesterday, informing that I was not au- 
thorized to consider the proposal, but would submit it to my government. 
Your respectful and obedient servant, 

M. ROMERO. 
Hon. William H. Seward, fyc., Sfc, $$c. 

(For enclosures see enclosures Nos. 5 and 7 in document No. 116.) 



No. 115. 

Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero. 

Department of State, 

Washington, July 6, 1S66. 
Sir : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of 
the 26th of May, containing copy of a letter addressed to you by Don Antonio 
Lopez de Santa Anna, and your reply thereto, and to thank you for the in- 
formation. 

I embrace this opportunity to renew to you the assurances of my most dis- 
tinguished consideration. 

WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 
Senor Don M. Romero, Sfc.. 8fc, Sfc. 



340 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 



No. 116. 

Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward. 

[Translation.] 

Mexican Legation in the United States, 

Washington, August 12, 1866. 

Mr. Secretary : Continuing my communications to the government of the 
United Stales, of the chief occurrences in the Mexican republic at this critical 
period of its political existence. I send you to-day the enclosed indexed docu- 
ments relating to Don Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna's offer of his services to 
the Mexican government, and the determination of my government not to accept 
them, as of no interest to the cause, and for other reasons given at large in Mr. 
Lerdo de Tejada's note, of -which I enclose a copy, (No. 8,) and to which I 
alluded in my interview with you at the Department of State on Thursday last, 
the 9th instant. 

1 embrace the occasion to renew to you, Mr. Secretary, the assurances of my 
most distinguished consideration. 

M. EOMERO. 

Hon. William H. Seward, Sf-c., fyc, fyc. 



Index of documents sent by the Mexican legation in Washington to tlie Depart- 
ment of State of the United, States, with the note of this date, in relation to 
Don Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna's offer of services to the Mexican govern- 
ment. 



No. 



Date. 



Contents. 



1 


186( 
May 


15 


2 


June 


5 


3 
4 


June 
May 


•20 


5 


May 


21 


6 


May 


25 


7 


May 


25 


8 


July 


6 


9 


Aug. 


6 


10 


July 


12 



Protest of the New York Mexican Club against Don Antonio Lopez de 
Santa Anna. 

Don Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna's manifest to the Mexican people, dated 
at Elizabethport, New Jersey. 

Reply of the New York Mexican Club to the manifest. 

Mr. Romero sends a copy of Don Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna's offer of 
services to Mr. Lerdo de Tejada. 

Don Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna makes a formal offer of his services for 
the Mexican government to Mr. Romero. 

Mr. Romero sends Mr. Lerdo de Tejada a copy of his reply to Don Antonio 
Lopez de Santa Anna. 

Mr. Romero infoims Don Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna that his offer will 
be sent to the government of the republic, as he is not authorized to 
decide upon it. 

Mr. Lerdo de Tejada informs Mr. Romero that the government of Mexico 
cannot accept the services of Don Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna. 

Mr. Romero informs Don Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna of that determina- 
tion. 

Decree of the usurper Maximilian ordering the secpiestration of Don An- 
tonio Lopez de Santa Anna's property in Mexico. 



Washington, August 12, 1866. 



F. D. MACTN, 

Second Secretary of the Legation. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 341 



[Enclosure No. ].] 

Protest of the Mexican Club of New York against D. Antonio L. de Santa 

Anna. 

Nkw York, May 15, 1866. 

Whereas, on account of the arrival of Don Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna in 
the United States, rumors have prevailed that he will attempt to interfere again 
in the affairs of the Mexican republic, which he has oppressed, impoverished, 
and betrayed, the Mexican Club of New York, whose members are republicans, 
attached to the independence of their country; considering that the aforesaid Don 
Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna has been the most obnoxious man to Mexico, 
the source of her evils and calamities, the promoter of disorder and anarchy, the. 
violator of every law, the destroyer of freedom, the oppressor of the people, the 
corrupter of society; considering that to all these titles, which render him odious 
and which created against his tyranny the most popular revolution recorded in 
the annals of Mexico, he adds that of traitor to his country; for, in 1S54, Avhile 
holding the dictatorship he usurped, he committed his greatest offence in the 
betrayal of his country by empowering Don Jose Gutierrez Estrada to ask in his 
behalf from the European nations the establishment of a monarchy in Mexico; 
considering that as soon as this crime was accomplished by the aid of French 
intervention, Don Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna, rejoicing over the foul deed 
he had originated, made haste to tender his fealty to the Archduke Maximilian 
of Austria, recognizing him as the emperor of Mexico; and, finally, considering 
that if he afterward issued manifestoes against the empire, they do not obliterate 
the crime which he perpetrated, and are but an evidence of his being consistent 
only in his inconsistency, and of his having not received from the invaders the 
reward he expected from his treason; 
They do hereby declare and protest: 

1st. That they see in Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna the most odious tyrant, 
who betrayed the cause of native independence', and abused the public power. 

2d. That they believe that his name alone would be sufficient to stain the 
noble cause which the Mexican people are struggling to maintain, and to en- 
danger the consolidation of liberal institutions, and make certain the impunity 
of every traitor; that the Mexican people cannot trust the word of the man who 
has ever abused them, and that were they to see him in the national territory 
they would claim that, in satisfaction to law and justice, he should be submitted 
to trial, and receive exemplary punishment, as guilty of high treason. 

The Mexican Club resolves that the foregoing declarations be published, to 
prevent public opinion from being misguided, and the candor of the men who 
sympathize with the cause of Mexico from being abused; and they entertain the 
warmest conviction that the republicans of Mexico shall never concur in the 
irreparable error of dishonoring their ranks by admitting among them the man 
who was always the foe of freedom, and who, abusing all honor, begged for 
Mexico the shameful foreign yoke she now wears. 

FRANCISCO ZARCO, President. 
Juan J. Baz, Jose Rivera y Rio, 

Francisco Ibarra, Pedro de Baranda, 

Pantaleon Tovar, Juan A. Zambrano, 

Jesus Fuentes Muniz, Juan M. Zambrano, 

Francisco Elorriaga, Rafael de Zayas, 

Santiago Vicario, M. Gamboa Pritchard, 

Juan N. Navarro, Eulalio Degollado, jr., 

Felipe B. Berriozabal, Fernando Maria Ortega, 

Jesus G. Ortega, Juan Urbina, 

Jacobo Rivera, Francisco Paz, 



142 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 



Epitacio Huerta, 

Luis Legorreta, 

Rafael Huerta, 

Pablo Roclia y Portu, 

Gaspar Sanchez Ocboa, general of 

the republican army of Mexico. 
Joaquin Villalobos, 
Francisco G. Morales, 
Joaquin G! Ortega, 
Manuel Quesada, 
Pedro Sautacilia, 
Francisco Gonzalez Rodriguez, 
Andres Bravo, 
Cipriano Robert, Secretary. 



Jose Montesinos, 
Guadalupe Garcia, 
Juan Keats, 
Francisco Venegas, 
Andres Trevino, 
Jose Maria J. Carvajal, 
Antonio L. Carvajal, 
Juan Moreno, 
Juan Galindo, 
Jose Maria Carvajal, jr., 
Jose M. Boves, 
Frederico G. Fitch. 



[Enclosure No. 2. 
General Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna to the Mexican people. 

From time to time nations are tried by Heaven in order to teach them that 
they should walk in the paths of reason, and to awaken in them noble senti- 
ments of justice and of duty. The city of Numa reached the highest point in 
the scale of human greatness while right remained her guiding star, virtue her 
counsel, and union the shield and strength of her sons ; but later, when those 
saving principles had become forgotten, the mistress of the universe, became a 
slave, and was forced to learn the language of Attilaand Alaric, in order to exe- 
cute the orders of her masters. Such is the destiny of those nations that abuse 
the gifts and advantages with which Providence favors them. History is full 
of great but sorrowful examples of this fact. A sad fate has fallen upon our 
beloved country. The s.lence inspired by tyranny and the despondency of our 
fellow- citizens have succeeded the joyous festivals of liberty. The most ener- 
getic and expressive words lack strength and meaning to depict the desolation 
of our fields and the mourning that fills our cities. Yet we will not despair. 
Mexico has within herself powerful elements to enable her to triumph over the 
evil and to even blot out her past record of misfortune. The heroic resistance 
of our compatriots confirms this hope, and we should not forget that "a people 
fighting ior liberty and independence is invincible." 

On casting a glance over the blood-stained plains of Mexico, it is a consoling 
thought that all our misfortunes have been useful for the present and fruitful 
in lessons for the future. Those misfortunes have developed and strength- 
ened the national sent ment; and from the midst of the nation's ruins we have 
begun to build up a new and a moral country, under the impulse of our common 
participation in misfortune. There were Mexicans, it is true, but no nation. 
Now all our domestic hatreds have been concentrated into one common cry of 
vengeance on the invaders of the sacred s< il left to us by our fathers. Yes, tire 
nation does exist in the hearts of Mexicans, and great are the lessons which we 
have gathered from the field of error and experience to guide us in forming the 
rule of our future conduct. Though having followed different routes, we meet 
to-day at the same point, tired, it is true, but not overcome by our constant fight- 
ing. Let us emlnace one another at this critical moment of our existence; let 
us work in concert for our common cause, as we did in those glorious days when 
we broke to pieces the chains of the conquest ; let the nation rise as one man, 
and the sceptre as well as the crown of Maximilian will fall and be buried in the 
depths of the seas. Our riches and prosperity in days gone by were the cause 
why our civic virtues, undermined by luxury and indolence, were disappearing 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 343 

from clay to clay ; but adversity and poverty commenced to develop aga ; n in the 
nation those same virtues which are the strength and the glory of every people. 
Let us learn in the great school of misfortune to give their fall value to those 
precious gifts of liberty and peace. Let every Mexican become, a soldier of the 
republic, and after the victory has been won and the clash of arms has ceased, 
he will be a good citizen, skilled in defending the conquests made by his pa- 
triotism and having an interest in their preservation. 

Although it is contrary to my character, and notwithstanding my natural re- 
pugnance to speak of myself, it is incumbent upon me to do so on this occasion. 
Never, not even for a moment, have I ceased to be a Mexican, whatever may 
have been, at different times, my opinions regarding the system of government 
suitable to my country. Nor can I with justice be accused of self-will or ego- 
tism, for the motive of my action has always been the happiness and prosperity 
of my native country. Providence has chosen that my history should be that 
of Mexico since 1821, when I figured as one of the leaders in the struggle for 
independence, and that heroic country should inscribe her name, with my aid, 
on the map of nations. I first proclaimed there the republic on the 2d of De- 
cember, 1S22, announcing a hitherto unknown divinity, as the Apostle did on 
the Areopagus ; and so little prepared were the people for understanding and 
worshipping it worthily, that at various times the doubt assailed me whether I 
had accomplished my work. In the plan according to which a Mexican na- 
tionality was first organized our independence had been brought about in connec- 
tion with the idea of constitutional monarchy. This was, at that time, the faith- 
ful expression of a very general desire in Mexico of an aspiration that was not for- 
eign to honorable motives. Besides, in the other sections of Spanish- America the 
cry for independence has arisen, protesting against the intruding government of 
Napoleon I, and swearing fealty to Ferdinand VII, son of the dethroned mon- 
arch. It is well known that the bad policy of the sovereign turned that senti- 
ment into one in favor of complete emancipation, and that the genius of leaders 
like Bolivar and San Martin did the rest. Many distinguished and patriotic 
Americans had their thoughts bent upon monarchy at the time of organizing the 
new governments ; and some of the ministers sent to Europe carried with them 
instructions to negotiate on that basis. The idea of a republic, however, pre- 
vailed, and Spanish America was divided and organized under that form, and 
the flag which covered her indomitable legions in a hundred battles was tri- 
colore.il. 

This is not the proper place to speak of the armed European intervention, 
nor does it belong to me to speak now of that diplomatic combination, much less 
to write its history. 'Withal, it is necessary to state that- the tripartite inter- 
vention, as it was presented to us, differed totally from the manner in which it 
has been understood and carried out by a single one of the conflicting parties. 
The intervention of three nations, each one powerful enough of itself to carry 
out any definite resolution regarding Mexico, could not be considered as a com- 
bination to usurp our rights, since its co-operation was generally regarded as a 
neutral element, and as a means afforded to the Mexicans for putting aside par- 
tisan excesses so that they might be able to discuss, to reason, and come to an 
understanding as to the most adequate and convenient manner of constituting 
their form of government for the maintenance of their nationality, independence, 
and autonomy. But the original plan of the intervention having been broken 
up by Erance, in taking upon herself alone the initiative in the matter, there 
came a total change over what had appeared to be the means of arriving at a set- 
tlement; and, from appearing as a mediator, the foreigner changed himself into 
the arbiter of our destinies. It was necessary at all hazards to visit the theatre 
of events in order to investigate the proceedings and attempts being made by 
the new interventionists. With this conviction, and following the suggestions 
of old friends, I resolved to go to Vera Cruz. What took place on my arrival 



344 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO 

is known to all. General Bazaine rudely drove me from the Mexican territory, 
and I was obliged to re-embark shortly after my arrival. I bear no resentment 
on this account. I am rather glad that the outrage was committed, because it 
may have saved me from making certain compromises which circumstances 
might have imposed upon me, and because it opened my eyes regarding the in- 
tentions of the interventionists. Having been absent from Mexico since LS55, 
other agents took upon themselves to represent and direct public opinion, en- 
tirely free from my influence. It was others who were the guides of the allied 
invasion, who negotiated with the archduke, and who finally escorted him to the 
capital. My antagonists say that I went thither in search of an elevated posi- 
tion near the archduke. The truth is that I went thither in order to look after 
the interests and liberties of my compatriots, and not to separate myself from 
the real interests of the people. 

To what greater glory could I aspire ? What more could he have given me 
who was styled emperor ] Open the history of Mexico, and it will be seen 
that all my ambition has been satisfied. Nothing could be of greater value in 
my eyes than the sash of general of division and the title of " well deserving 
of his country," with which, in 1829, on the banks of the Panuco, the people's 
gratitude rewarded my patriotic efforts in achieving the national independence. 
For no other honor have I more regard than for the wounds with which I am 
covered — memorials of our glorious struggles against powerful nations. 

I have thus in no manner compromised myself with the empire. I belong 
entirely to the republic, and, in presence of the danger that menaces our coun- 
try, the names of all parties disappear from my sight. I am not a conservative, 
nor am I a liberal. I am a Mexican. 

It becomes me now to set forth the conduct which I have followed in my last 
administration, and that which has governed me since. In February, 1853, 
while I was living in a city of New Granada, I was called by my compatriots 
to exercise discretionary powers — a measure believed to be salutary in the 
midst of the nation's conflicts, divided as she was by hatreds and under the 
rule of anarchy. I was obliged not to hesitate. Duty, patriotism, dictated my 
resolution, I flew at the call of my fellow-citizens, and in April of that year I 
assumed charge of the supreme direction of affairs. The power of dictator is a 
tremendous one, but I accepted it with the consciousness of doing good, and 
with the determination to use prudently so formidable a trust. I felt in my 
heart enough patriotism not to go beyond the wishes of my fellow-citizens, 
sufficient love of glory not to render myself unworthy of its favors, and a pro- 
found respect for posterity not to render myself unworthy of its applause. 
Fortified with these convictions, I undertook the struggle' against the obstacles 
which the genius of discord was heaping up on the road to peace, to order, and 
to the progress of the nation. Two years and four months did I bestow upon 
that task, with a vigorous energy and an unshakable resolution. Confidence on 
all sides was awakened, trade flourished, the arts sprung up, and the domestic 
as well as the foreign credit of the republic was re-established, as it were, by 
magic. 1 have the approval of my conscience ; it tells me that I have done my 
duty. Supported by the whole nation, the acts of my administration were 
received with respect; sustained by a splendid army, full of courage, disciplined, 
and addicted to my person, and having in my hands the destinies of the people 
and army, which they had placed there themselves, what better chance could 
there be to revive in my favor the plan of Iguala ? But, say what my adver- 
saries will, I am a stranger to the ambition of vulgar souls ; sentiments more 
elevated find a home in my soul, as well as higher aspirations. In order to have 
worn the imperial diadem, it would have sufficed for me to have stretched 
forth my hand ; but never has the royal purple dazzled my eyes ; and if at 
any time I could have dreamed of it, the bloody picture of Yturbide would 
have aroused me in time to fly from the seductive and treacherous delusion. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 345 

Generals and even governors of departments awaited only my acquiescence in 
order to proclaim me emperor on my birthday; but, faithful to my principles, 
I was obliged to use even threats in order to silence the proposals of those who 
thought it a personal honor to me and an advantage to the nation that I should 
wear the crown. In the midst of intestine convulsions minds were blinded by 
the extreme exaggerations of party, and despairing of being able to constitute 
ourselves in any stable manner under a republican system, persons were not 
wanting to blame me publicly as the prompter or the originator of the inter- 
pretation that was given to the plan of Iguala, after Yturbide's failure. A few 
years afterwards, in Mexico, as well as in other sections of Spanish America, a 
feeling of disappointment sprang up on witnessing the sad results produced by 
the trial given to our new institutions ; and many men of well-disposed and of 
strict principles became disabused to such an extent that Generals Bustamente, 
Bravo, and Paredes, among us, and the illustrious San Martin, in South Amer- 
ica, believed it to be their patriotic duty to advocate the establishment of a 
monarchy. There had been, on other occasions, attempts made to call a con- 
stituent assembly, in order to submit this retrograde step to its decision. Many 
worthy persons, during my last administration, wished to revive the same idea, 
and for this reason Senor Gutierrez de Estrada was authorized to have an 
understanding with the different courts of Europe, and to inquire what were 
the ideas of foreign sovereigns on the subject before such a project should be 
undertaken. But the war, which at that time absorbed the attention of Europe, 
prevented said mission from having any result ; hence the project was for the 
time abandoned. 

From this exposition it follows that the document which has been presented 
as overwhelming and conclusive against me is, on the contrary, a source of 
satisfaction to me, as it shows forth an act of disinterestedness and self-denial on 
my part. As if to give greater force in my detriment to the publication alluded 
to, there have been likewise printed, with some alterations, certain letters, which 
have been confided to the discretion of friends for circulation. I will not under- 
take to call such conduct by its proper name, but I may be allowed to ask 
whether, by any chance, the ideas contained in said letters brought the inter- 
vention to Mexico and seated Maximilian upon his throne? How can my 
supposed complicity in such acts be explained when contrasted with the action 
of the French authorities in driving me from Vera Cruz, after having forcibly 
made me sign a paper recognizing events that had already taken place ] In 
what document of that time, public or private, did my name appear as an accom- 
plice of the intervention 1 What favors have I received from the archduke 1 His 
silence gave full sanction to the violence used against my person. My adver- 
saries admit that they have failed to bring the matter home to me, and that 
their deductions, with regard to the letters in question, are not as tenable as 
has been maintained. 

On the other hand, is it just to make me alone responsible for an idea which, 
in addition to the examples already cited, has occupied the attention of other 
thinking and patriotic men, who, while they erred in judgment, did not do so 
knowingly, but in perfect good faith ? Bolivar, who indignantly spurned San 
Martin's views, became subsequently the advocate of the form of a republic 
called Bolivian, which has been denominated monarchical by a number of libe- 
rals ; and yet three or four years later many eminent Colombians favored the 
establishment of a constitutional monarchy in South America, and made certain 
diplomatic moves in the premises for the purpose of causing the new states to 
be ruled by European princes. Iturbide, the liberator, was less disinterested, 
as he derived personal advantages by his own interpretation of the sentiments 
upon which the Iguala plan was based. That error cost him his life ; but his 
countrymen speedily discovered, after his death, the great services rendered by 
him to the nation, and how patriotic and generous were his imperial projects. 



346 CONDITION OP AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

I refer to these facts as the most convincing record in the annals of Spanish 
America, and, I ask, may I not also have erred in good faith, as well as so 
man}' other men of sound principles and recognized ability'? Wherein is it 
criminal or unpardonable that I should have despaired, as many others have 
done, of our republic, and allowed a tiial of a constitutional monarchy, estab- 
lished without my co-operation, and when the sceptre was not to be held by me? 

A bandage covered the eyes of our people and my own. We have jointly 
erred and suffered, and we have now warning and experience. I am not ego- 
tistic, and I desire to take part in repairing our error. 

Where is the Mexican who can refuse my services without incurring the 
opprobrium of history, or deny me the right to fight, and die, if necessary, in 
the defence of our desolate hearths? If it is desired to achieve a solid and 
enduring peace, is it just or right to turn the back upon an old soldier of the 
nation, who only asks his countrymen for a spot of ground where he can stand 
and fight against the usurpers of our rights? Who is there that has sufficient 
authority to say to me, "Stand back ! you are a Mexican, but you cannot be 
allowed to draw your sword, as of yore, in defence of the country which gave 
you birth, and of the republic which you yourself founded?" Upon what prin- 
ciple, whether liberal or conservative, could such injustice be upheld? In the 
great struggle of our country no element, however insignificant it may appear, 
that can be used to the advantage of a nation, can be considered useless. 
Further, I perceive, in view of the facts already stated, and of the events that 
have taken place in our country during the last five years, that the gener.il ten- 
dency of the people is in favor of a republic, and that monarchy is an impossi- 
bility in Mexico. In Spanish America the throne is the forerunner of the 
scaffold. Party sentiment must not be made the criterion of the course of con- 
temporary actors. It rests with history to give an impartial version, and I am 
certain that history will do me justice. 

Staid together, my countrymen ! Let us consign all such recriminations to 
oblivion, for they are detrimental to our country. I have given an explanation 
of my public acts, and in like manner I am ready to give any guarantees for 
my sincerity that may be required. Do not forget that domestic dissension, 
when the soil of our country is being profaned by foreign invaders, is equiva- 
lent to desertion in the face of the enemy ; and that, although there is no mili- 
tary law whereby it can be punished, yet we must pass through the ordeal of 
an inflexible and avenging posterity, which will reward only self-denial, patriot- 
ism, and true magnanimity. 

Juarez is a good patriot, and Ortega is a worthy son of Mexico. Why are 
they not united ? Why augment, through their disunion, the afflictions of our 
fellow-citizens? I hope yet to see them friends. It is not for me to say who 
has a right to the presidency, nor on whose side is the law ; my object is to 
avenge the affront offered to our country by driving far from her midst the im- 
placable tyrants that oppress her. Let all dissensions among our compatriots 
cease, and let all hatred be reserved for the foreign domination that covers us 
now with ignominy and shame. Juarez and Ortega should put an end to their 
resentments by a cordial embrace. Long and strenuously have the defenders 
of the republic struggled in Mexico ; and, notwithstanding such great heroism, 
so firm a constancy, and so much sacrifice, the work is to-day no further ad- 
vanced than it was in the beginning. 

By reason of my antecedents, of my position in the conservative party, and 
even of my long absence from the country, I believe myself to be the one called 
upon to reconcile all minds, setting the example of submission to the constitu- 
tional government, as I now sincerely do. Thus I perform a patriotic duty, I 
obey the impulses of my own heart, and I satisfy the desires of hundreds of 
Mexicans who have called me to action. It will not surprise me to find my con- 



\ 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 347 

duct misconstrued and base intentions attributed to me, inspired by egotism. I 
expect that already ; I am prepared for all. But I shall nevertheless feel for 
my country at the sight presented by some of my fellow-citizens rejecting all 
association with me in these solemn moments of our country's life. I shall have 
fears lest our past experience and the warnings which we have received prove 
of no avail in producing union. Those who so oppose me will have given an 
eloquent explanation of our past misfortunes ; but let them take note that I will 
never cowardly abandon the cause of the reptiblic. Should my hopes be frus- 
trated by unexpected events, or through the influence of bad passions, I shall 
have fulfilled my duty at all events, and the world can judge whether others 
have done theirs more faithfully than I have. My heart is young enough and 
my arm is strong enough to take part in the glorious struggle which is destined 
to achieve the second independence of Mexico. I feel that this is in accordance 
with my antecedents, my position, my years, and the glory which I desire for 
my name. I do not wish to give up the sole ambition that impels and rules 
me — namely, to drive our oppressors beyond the ocean, to re-establish the re- 
public, and then withdraw to private life once more. No throne on earth could 
tempt me from that retirement, and I solemnly declare that on the day of vic- 
tory I will demand no other reward. 

Let us advance and unite the standards of our country which have been torn 
by the hands of the usurpers. Let us set again on its sacred pedestal the statue 
of Lberty, thrown down by the invaders. Let us give no rest to the tyrant who 
oppresses us. He has changed our vast plains into frightful deserts, where the 
bones of our brethren, immolated on the altar of duty or victims to the hired 
assassins of an empire, lie bleaching. He ruins the nation's exchequer and 
makes monetary contracts abroad that are unwarrantable, believing that it will 
he easy for him to throw their weight upon the shoulders of- our martyred peo- 
ple. The Austrian prince has spread a veil of mourning over the glory of our 
annals, and in place of the prosperity which he promised, In; has loaded us with 
misfortunes, and has covered us with contempt and ignominy. Thousands of 
widows and orphans cry out for vengeance. Let us avenge them, compatriots ! 
Union and fraternity be among us until we accomplish this ! 

It is now time, Mexicans, to forget forever our past contentions, and to make 
a strenuous effort, at once terrible and simultaneous, against our enemy. The 
tremendous onslaughts of our indomitable soldiers will bring the reveille of 
■liberty, joy to the hearts of mothers, and rejoicing to our country. Heaven 
grant that the contentment which I foreshadow be not disturbed by new fratri- 
cidal dissensions! Union shall be my watchword before the fight! Union, 
again, after our victory. 

God alone is infallible, and it would be monstrous presumption on my part 
were I to set myself up as free from error during my long public career ; but, 
with my hand on my heart, I can say that never has my will been an accom- 
plice in my faults, but rather in impotence of human nature to accomplish good 
in the absolute. 

Trust to the sincerity of my words and intentions. I cannot, I should not, 
nor will I, close the book of my life with a falsehood. I only seek for my tomb 
a new laurel tree, whose shadow shall cover it in the midst of peace. 

Let us hasten the hour of our national triumph. Confide in my words, and 
he ready. 

Down with the empire! Long live the republic ! 

A. L. DE SANTA ANNA. 

Elizabbthport, New Jersey, June 5, 1866. 



348 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

[Enclosure No. 3.] 

Mexican Club in New York, 

Neio York, June 20, 1866. 

The manifesto issued by Senor Don Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna at Eliza- 
bethport, on the 5th instant, suggests many and various reflections to any one 
acquainted with the history of Mexico. As soon as we knew that Senor Santa 
Anna was desirous to intrude himself again into our political affairs, we published 
a protest against his pretensions. It will, then, astonish no one if we present 
now some of the main reflections occurring to us on reading this last address. 

Senor Santa Anna begins by laying down certain general maxims of historic 
morals, which, if they can be applied in any manner to our country, involve 
ideas absolutely erroneous. He speaks of the punishments that Heaven sends 
upon people who abuse the gifts and advantages that Providence bestows upon 
them, and then applies them to our country in these words : 

" Our riches and prosperity in days gone by were the cause why our civic 
virtue, undermined by luxury and indolence, were disappearing from day to 
day." (See Manifest, p. 4.) 

We regret that Santa Anna, who has played such a prominent part in the 
history of Mexico for so many years, should make an assertion so ridiculous to 
men of sense, though it has been very often repeated. We have never been rich, 
happy, and lazy. Though our country has many elements of wealth, chiefly 
mineral, they have not been developed, nor can they be, from natural causes 
and for social reasons entirely foreign to the will of the Mexican people. 

The natural features of our country, its numerous and immense mountains, 
its want of navigable rivers, and even of spring-water in many parts, are nat- 
ural disadvantages that have retarded the progress of civilization, impeding 
moral and material progress, and easy modes of communication. 

The lamentable condition in which we were left by the ignorance of our con- 
querors, the ideas of intolerance and fanaticism we inherited from them, have 
been some of the obstacles to the prosperity of Mexico, and, in general, of all 
the Spanish American countries. 

For these causes, entirely independent of our will, we have been poor and 
miserable, and hence the revolutions that have troubled us ; it was not the sup- 
posed abuse of gifts and advantages, so lightly spoken of by soma. Mexico can 
be, and will be, rich and happy; but it has not yet become so, because, in the 
order of nature, it is impossible for a new-born infant to have the strength of a 
giant. 

Is not the four years' brave resistance of the people against their invaders a 
proof to Santa Anna that the civic virtues of the people have increased, and not 
diminished ? 

But you should not be surprised, continues Santa Anna, that the great men 
of Mexico and South America should have similar ideas ; mine was a project 
never realized. 

If crimes are to be excused because notable men have committed them, courts 
of justice had as well be shut, and the word moral blotted from the dictionary. 

Traitors have lived in every nation, and, without going back to remote times, 
Santa Anna may look at the late President of Santo Domingo as a notorious 
example. 

In regard to the failure of his project, Santa Anna takes care to tell us that 
it was not through him it failed, " but on account of the war that then absorbed 
the attention of Ezirope" (See page 10 of the Manifest.) 

We will here mention his reason for recognizing the Maximilian intervention 
at Vera Cruz, in another mauifest published at St. Thomas, the 8th of July, 
1865, after General Bazaine's rude treatment made him suddenly change from 
monarchist to republican. 



CONDITION" OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 349 

"1 must explain," said Santa Anna to the Mexicans. "The newspapers of 
the capital published my recognition of French intervention. That act was not 
of my free will ; it was forced upon me by circumstances." 

" The steamer in which I came had hardly cast anchor in the port, when the 
French commander of Vera Cruz came on board and informed me that 1 could 
not land till I signed, a conditional paper. If 1 did not sign I was to go back 
on the same steamer. The conditions were that I recognized the intervention, 
and the monarch elect, and I should address no manifest to the Mexican people. 
This insolence excited my indignation ; but a long voyage made my wife very 
sick, and the advice of friends who came on board to see me persuaded me to 
sign the condition " 

In Santa Anna's reply to General Bazaine at Vera Cruz, on the 12th of May, 
1864, he says, as he did not understand French, when he signed the paper, he 
thought he was only required to recognize intervention and Maximilian, Nut not 
to remain mute. Both these documents say that Santa Anna recognized the 
emperor Maximilian and French intervention ; but the explanation is not very 
satisfactory. 

In 1864 he told General Bazaine he did not know what he was signing, be- 
cause the writing was in French ; and in 1865 he said the proposals of the com- 
mander of Vera Cruz had caused him great indignation ; and this is a certain 
proof he knew what he was signing. 

When General Santa Anna speaks of himself, he does not wish to be accused 
of inconsistency. Perhaps not ; but whoever looks at any of the periods of his 
life cannot but confess that he changes his opinions with considerable facility. 
He was a warm republican in 1822-r— lukewarm and discouraged after a little 
while; he was a monarchist from 1853 to 1S64, at least; and again he is a de- 
cided republican and a partisan of constitutional liberty in 1866. If we add to 
this the time in which he was partisan and defender, as a military man, of the 
Spanish domination, we shall see that the charge of inconsistency, which he thinks 
very hard, is justly deserved, and he cannot deny that we have a reason to call 
him changeable. 

One of the proofs of levity given by General Santa Anna is to have believed 
and said that one of the objects of the tripartite intervention was to secure the 
happiness of Mexico. Any one having the slightest acquaintance with history 
and with the human heart would have known that natives are not in the habit 
of shedding their blood and expending their treasures disinterestedly, and for 
the simple pleasure of doing good. Still further, all sensible men, all independ- 
ent newspapers of every country, pointed out with the greatest clearness the 
true object of the three Powers in interfering in the business of Mexico — the 
destruction of republican institutions during the civil war which reddened the 
territory of the United States. Every one said — and among them General Prim, 
whose official opinion cannot be doubted — that the Mexican republic was to be 
destroyed and a, monarchy substituted in its place, and that the Archduke Maxi- 
milian of Austria was to be at the head of that monarchy. On the 30th of No- 
vember, 1864, the same Senor Santa Anna wrote from San Thomas to his old 
friend and agent Don Jose Maria Gutierrez Estrada, and this before the allied 
forces had reached Vera Cruz, the following : 

" The candidate of whom you speak to me (his Highness Archduke Fernando 
Maximiliano) is the best you could find; therefore I hasten to give him my ap- 
probation." 

It seems that Senor Santa Anna knew as well, or better than any other, that 
the true object of the intervention was to destroy the republic and substitute 
for it a foreign prince supported by foreign bayonets. Nevertheless, he asserts 
that he was ignorant of what was going on, and on that account lie thought it 
was necessary for him to go over to the intervention in order to investigate its 
proceedings and its attempts, and to watch over the guarantees and freedom of 



350 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

Lis countrymen. This is the natural explanation of his visit to his country in 
1864. 

Here he will allow us to remind him of the following facts : 
On the 28th of February, 1864, the clay following his arrival at Vera Cruz, 
he addressed to Don Juan d"e Dios Peza, who styled himself Under Secretary of 
War and Navy of the Regency, a communication, in which, after acquainting 
him with his presence in that city, he uses the following words : 

" In coming back to my native country, my intention is to co-operate, as much 
as I can, in the consolidation of the form of government that the nation has 
thought proper to adopt under the beneficent protection of the illustrious Prince 
designated in the high counsels of Divine Providence to raise the nation from 
the abyss of misfortune into which she was plunged by anarchy. 

" I bring to the knowledge of the regency that it can have my humble ser- 
vices, and dictate the orders it wishes to the oldest veteran of the Mexican 
army." 

This very clear expression of sentiment, signed by Senor Santa Anna, per- 
fectly agrees with a humble letter which he previously addressed to Archduke 
Maximilian on the 22d of December, 1863, and with the manifesto of the nation 
published in Orizaba. This manifesto was the cause of the order of General 
Bazaine compelling him to re-embark. Amid his thousand praises of the arch- 
duke, and a thousand protestations of obedience, Senor Santa Anna says : 

" If it had been possible for me to follow the Mexican commission, your high- 
ness Avould have heard through the lips of one of the pioneers of independence, 
who occupied for so many years the first place among his countrymen, the rati- 
fication of what the worthy president of that c mmission has expressed with so 
much eloquence and sincerity." 

In the same letter he says that the empire with Maximilian at its head was 
the only remedy capable of curing the disease of Mexico, and the last dawn of 
its hope, and he concludes it with these expressive words : 

" I hope your imperial highness will condescend to acknowledge in the 
oldest veteran of the Mexican army a devoted and disinterested friend, and your 
most obedient servant, who wishes you the greatest happiness, and humbly 
kisses the imperial hands of your imperial highness." 

At that (bite, not very remote, SeQor Santa Anna showed an enthusiasm and 
a devotion to the empire which strongly contrasts with his present declarations 
in favor of the republic. 

The former manifesto resembles the latter only in this, that it describes with 
glowing colors the good and prosperous state of Mexico during the last dictator- 
ship of Senor Santa Anna — an opinion which the Mexican people undoubtedly 
does not share, for they rose in mass against his Highness (a title which he took 
and compelled other people to acknowledge) and forced him to leave suddenly 
the territory of the republic. The rest of that document strongly censures all 
the republican governments of Mexico, and all those of the Hispano-American 
countries, and especially that presided over by Senor Juarez, that good patriot, 
as he calls him himself so deservingly in his present manifesto ; and at the same 
time shows his complete attachment to monarchy and to Maximilian 

" At solemn moments the good man sought to speak the truth with frankness 
and sincerity. The illusions of youth are gone ; in presence of so many disas- 
ters produced by that system (the republican) I will not deceive anybody; the 
last word of my conscience and my conviction is, the constitutional monarchy." 
Senor Antonio Santa Anna does not confine himself to praise of the monarchy 
and the archduke, but entreats the Mexicans in the most pressing manner to 
preserve the memory of the magnanimous monarch Avho has extended to them, 
so opportunely and generously, his powerful hand. 

Are we not justified, with such facts before us, in doubting the assertions of his 
last manifesto, " that he went to investigate the proceedings of the intervention- 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 351 

ists and look after the interests and liberties of his countrymen, and that he never 
aspired for a high position in the gift of the archduke 1" 

In his present manifesto Senor Santa Anna says : 

" I have in no manner compromised myself with the empire ; I belong entireljr 
to the republic, and in presence of the danger by which our country is menaced, 
the name of all parties disappears from my sight. I am not a conservative, nor 
am I a liberal ;lama Mexican." 

The contrast between Santa Anna's manifesto of 1S64 and his manifesto of 
1866 is so strong, that everybody will naturally feel inclined to inquire after 
the cause of this marvellous conversion. Mr. Santa Anna having prepared the 
question, we proceed to give the answer : 

" General Bazaine " says he, " rudely drove me from the Mexican territory, and 
I was obliged to re-embark shortly after my arrival. I bear no resentment on 
that aceount. I am rather glad the outrage was committed, because it may 
have saved me from making certain compromises which circumstances might 
have imposed upon me, and because it opened my eyes regarding the intentions 
of the interventionists." 

In one word, the rude treatment of General Bazaine is the reason why Senor 
Santa Anna extricates himself from his precedents, and forgets his warm ad- 
vocacy of the intervention. We do not think that we do him an injury in 
believing that he would now be one of its strongest supporters if, instead of 
having received the order to re-embark, he had received with the imperial deco- 
ration his appointment as commander in some of the corps of the imperial army. 

It is impossible to deny, however, that he proceeds systematically. Opposed 
to the intervention because ill-treated by General Bazaine, who represented it, 
he addressed, or at least said he was going to address, his complaints to the 
French Emperor in order to obtain the justice to which he was entitled. This 
monarch undoubtedly approved the act of the commander of his armies, as 
Senor Santa Anna did not receive (at least nothing is known on that subject) 
the apology which he expected. 

What was the reason of his anger against Maximilian 1 Mr. Santa Anna 
tells it : 

" What favor did I receive from the archduke ? Does he not by his silence 
fully approve the violence which was committed against my person'?" 

Few explanations can be as conclusive as this. Senor Santa Anna knew 
that the intervention was in opposition to the wishes of his countrymen, because 
General Bazaine bids him to re-embark ; he lost all faith in monarchy and all 
his enthusiasm for Maximilian, because the latter approved by his silence the 
conduct of the French general. We appeal to all sensible men to say if it is a 
temerity on the part of the antagonists of Senor Santa Anna to doubt of his 
conversion, and to suppose that in 1864 he went to Mexico to look for a high 
position from the archduke, and not to look for the security and the liberties of 
his countrymen. 

In following the examination of the present manifesto, we find that Senor 
Santa Anna attempted to get rid of the accusation of having once aspired to the 
imperial crown, yet appearances condemn him. 

During the dictature which he exercised in Mexico from the month of Febru- 
ary, 1853, down to the month of August, 1855, his policy assumed such a course 
that everybody, the ignorant and the wise, foreigners and Mexicans, supposed 
that he was ready to proclaim himself emperor of Mexico. He suppressed all 
shadow of national representation, all vestige of popular election. All public 
officers, beginning with the governors of departments, and ending with the most 
insignificant of them all, the sub-prefect, were directly or indirectly appointed 
by him. He also ordered every one of his officers to be called by his respective 
title, while, according to the laws of the republic, these titles were to he given 
in writing only. He revived the order of the Knights of Guadalupe, which 



352 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

was established by Emperor Iturbide, and appointed himself, of course, master 
of the order, changing the title of excellency, which had hitherto been given to 
the President of the republic, into that of serenissima highness. He created an 
army, which he- dressed richly, and which he called his highness's guard ; in 
short, he behaved in such a way that he cannot accuse the people of levity in 
attributing to him the intention of wearing the crown. This happened iu 1853 
and 1854, at a time Avhen the memory of the prince resident of the French re- 
public, and that of the coup d'etat of the 2d of December, was still fresh in all 
minds. 

There is a circumstance which we ignored, and that Senor Santa Anna has 
just revealed to us : 

" Generals, and even governors of departments," says he, " awaited only my 
acquiescence in order to proclaim me emperor on my birthday. * * * It 
was enough for me, in order to wear the imperial crown, to stretch out my hand.' 

Senor Santa Anna will allow us a slight observation. We do not doubt for 
a single moment that the generals and governors appointed by his serenissima 
highness would have been disposed to proclaim him emperor, because worse 
things were seen in the Roman senate in the time of Tiberius; but we doubt very 
much that the Mexican people, who could not suffer him as dictator, and com- 
pelled him to fly in August, 1855, would have tolerated him as a king. Perhaps 
we are mistaken ; but Seiior Santa Anna will agree that our doubts are not 
without foundation. 

If this is not sufficient, there is another conclusive proof: the full power 
which he gave to Seiior Gutierrez Estrado on the 1st of July, 1865, "to enter 
into arrangements and make the proper offers to the courts of London, Paris, 
Madrid, and Vienna to obtain from those governments, or from any of them, 
the establishment of a monarchy derived from any of the royal races of those 
powers." 

Here Ave cannot biit confess that the arguments of Seiior Santa Anna are 
extremely happy. This document proves conclusively that on the 1st of July, 
1854, he did not think to make himself an emperor, but to sell his country, 
preparing to transfer it, with its hands and feet tied up, to the power of its 
conquerors, or to some other foreign princes. This, which, in accordance with 
the most obvious principles of universal morals, we call treason, Seiior Santa 
Anna calls a master-stroke of disinterestedness. Of such a disinterestedness 
Seiiores Almonte, Marquez, and other traitors, supporters of Maximilian, could 
boast with as much reason. * * * He thought himself bound only 

to recognize the French intervention and Maximilian. 

" But why insist iu charging me?" says Seiior Santa Anna in his last mani- 
festo. "I sinned, and I repent; and to cause all my wrongs to be forgotten I 
am here now ready to fight, and die, if it is necessary, in defence of the inde- 
pendence of the republic, of the constitutional government to which I submit." 

" Where is the Mexican who can refuse my services without deserving the op- 
probrium of history, or deny me the right to fight, and die, if necessary, in de- 
fence of our desolated hearths ? * * * Do not forget that domestic 
disunions, when the soil of our country is being profaned by foreign invaders, is 
equivalent to desertion in the face of the enemy. * * * Let all dis- 
sensions among our countrymen cease, and let all hatred be reserved for the for- 
eign domination that covers us now with ignominy and shame." " By reason 
of my antecedents, of my position in the conservative party, and even of my 
long absence from the countiy, I believe myself to be the one called upon to re- 
unite all minds. * * * Confide in my words and be ready." 

However inclined we are to believing what Seiior Santa Anna tells us, Ave cannot 
erase from our memory that the same arguments he presents now in favor of the 
republic, he presented a few months ago in behalf of the intervention and of 
Maximilian. Then, upon his heart he swears that his last words were in favor 



CONDITION OP AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 353 

of monarchy; now, he assures us that they were in favor of the republic. What 
reasons can we find to believe the last better than the first ] 

As he wishes, however, to fight now for the republic, and to contribute to it3 
triumph, we concede that Senor Santa Anna is right in the desire. Nobody can 
prevent him from doing it. Let him disburse a portion of his immense wealth 
on the purchase of arms to increase the number and the power of the independent 
soldiers. Let him go to Mexico, unfurl the tri-color banner, and precipitate him- 
self against the invaders who are profaning the soil of our country. It may be 
so, but let us understand each other. 

If we are to believe the city newspaper which has taken charge of assisting 
Senor Santa Anua, the latter wishes that the constitutional government should 
appoint him general-in-chief of the republican armies. Can Senor Santa Anna 
imagine that any one of these deserving, hungry, naked, disarmed citizens, who 
have been constantly struggling against the power of France for the last four 
years for independence and the republic would consent to obey him 1 Does he 
believe it possible that the constitutional government which represents that people, 
who keeps still fresh in its memory the defection of Urugua and others, could 
forget the protest Senor Santa Anna made yesterday in opposition to that of to- 
day, and give him command of that army which is the pillar of Mexican nation- 
ality ? We are ready to concede that Senor Santa Anna's conversion is genuine. 
But who can tell us that if Senor Santa Anna was sick again, or if the French 
were to lay a snare for him like that of making him sign a document in the 
French language he does not understand, he would not transfer the army given 
him by the government for the defence of the republic to its enemies 1 

We beg Senor Santa Anna to dismiss his fervor, and lie will be convinced 
that these mistrusts and doubts are all natural ; that every person, however in- 
different to our party divisions, is led to entertain them. 

There is yet another reason which we beg Senor Santa Anna to weigh with 
impartiality. This very party, which has not bargained nor ever will bargain 
with the invader — those armed citizens whom he justly called heroes — they are the 
same who have been fighting till they have achieved the conquest of great princi- 
ples, upon which rests now the Mexican constitution as well as its civil and religious 
liberty. That conservative party to which Senor Santa Anna formerly belonged, 
over which he has now, according to his own confession, a great influence, has been 
the constant adversary of that principle. Supposing Senor Santa Anna to act 
in good faith in defence of independence; will any one be accused of levity who 
fears that he would destroy, after his triumph, the work that Maximilian and 
the French did not dare to touch — a work that they wished to consider as a title 
of glory and popularity 1 Does Senor Santa Anna believe that these doubts 
and fears, so well founded, would give him such a fame as to enable him to 
conciliate opinions ? 

We could add more, but enough has been said to prove that we bear no per- 
sonal hate to Senor Santa Anua, nor are we moved by a spirit of partisanship. 
None of these motives inspired the protest we signed on the loth of last May. 
Simply citizens for the most part, and far remote from the influence of office, no 
one can say that we see in Sefior Santa Anna a terrible rival and obstacle to 
our aspirations. All of us are moved solely by the love of our country, and by 
the wish to see it independent, for which we have fought and are ready to fight 
again. 

FRANCISCO ZANCO, President. 
CIPRIANO ROBERT, Secretary. 
23 MBX. 



354 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

[Enclosure No. 4.] 

No. 389.] Mexican Legation in the United States of America, 

Washington, May 24, 1866. 

Messrs. Louis Gr. de Vidal y Rivas, Dario Mazuera, Rafael Pombo, and A, 
Baiz called on me this morning. 

The first mentioned delivered me a letter from Don Antonio Lopez de Santa 
Anna, dated in Elizabethport, the 21st instant, of which I enclose a copy. 

After seeing the commissioners I will reply to Mr. Santa Anna's communica- 
tion, and will send a copy of my answer to your department. 
I repeat the assurances of my distinguished consideration. 

M. ROMERO. 
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Paso del Norte. 



[Enclosure No. 5.] 

Elizabethport, New Jersey, 

May 21, 1866. 

My Distinguished Compatriot : I Lave arrived in the United States on 
my way to our country, so worthily represented by you here, and I would have 
been pleased to visit you in Washington to inform you of the object of my jour- 
ney ; but as this is impossible at present, I have commissioned my friends Don 
Louis Vidal y Rivas, Colonel Dario Mazuera, and Don Abraham Baiz, with Don 
Rafael Pombo, who volunteers to accompany them, to represent me. They will 
present to you this letter, and I beg of you to receive what they may say as 
coming from myself. 

I cannot remain an indifferent spectator of the misfortunes of our country, 
and I comprehend that my apparent indifference would be a crime. Under the 
present circumstances it is of the most urgent necessity for the triumph of the 
national cause that all factions should be reconciled ; and that confidence should 
be restored both in the country and abroad, there must be a vigorous organiza- 
tion and unity of action. 

My antecedents, and numerous manifestations that have been addressed to 
me from all parts of Mexico by former friends and even political opponents, by 
disappointed imperialists and by indifferent republicans, persuade me that I am 
the one who is called upon to set the necessary example as a loyal soldier and 
disinterested citizen, and to reconcile the national elements in order that the en- 
tire nation, as a single man, may work under the direction of its chief magis- 
trate, and that the triumph may be as we cannot but desire, truly national, sat- 
isfactory to all, and giving sufficient assurance of a final, powerful, and respecta- 
ble reorganization. 

It is not strange that I am not yet judged with the impartial judgment of 
history ; that day has not yet come. When it does, then can be applied to me 
the words of Montesquieu : " The errors of statesmen are not always voluntary ; 
they are often the necessary consequences of the situations in which they are 
placed, where difficulties reproduce difficulties." 

My enemies have seen in me only a Sylla ; but now my greatest desire is to 
prove to them that I should not be compared to that ferocious Roman, except 
in entirely separating myself from public affairs when I still had power to con- 
trol them. 1 have already once voluntarily given up public position when I 
still had powerful means for sustaining myself. Now it is my intention to co- 
operate towards the restoration of the constitutional republican government in 
the capital of Mexico ; to see the people in the way of freely reorganizing them- 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 355 

selves by means of their representatives, and then immediately to withdraw to 
private life, in order to die respected and tranquil in the bosom of my country. 
My ardent dream, my ambition, is to struggle once more for the independence 
of my country, and to re-establish the republic I was the first to proclaim in 
1822, to pass the remainder of my years in the enjoyment of the love of my 
fellow countrymen, and to merit that there shall be inscribed over my tomb the 
glorious title of a good citizen. 

Of the firmness and sincerity of my intentions, if it is possible there can be 
any doubt, I am disposed to give whatever proofs may be exacted ; and very- 
far from wishing to act on my own account and thus promote still another con- 
flict and a new dissension in the constitutional camp, I commence bv addressing 
myself to you in order that we may come to an understanding with regard to 
the manner of my co-operation ; and I beg to request that you will transmit 
this communication to Sefior Juarez, as if addressed directly to him in asking 
his commands. 

I do not doubt that the people of our country will in the end profit by the- 
experience we have had. I am now neither conservative nor liberal; I am only 
a Mexican, and I open my arms to all my countrymen. 

In a few days I will publish a manifesto, which I hope will satisfy all who 
desire to know my sentiments and the object of my journey. The gentlemen, 
in charge of this letter will give to you all necessary explanations, and you carti 
speak to them as you would to me. 

I hope, however, to have an opportunity to see you and to renew to you per- 
sonally the assurances of my high appreciation and esteem. 
Your obedient servant and countryman, 

A. L. DE SANTA ANNA. 

His Excellency Don Matias Romero, fyc, Sfc, fyc. 



[Enclosure No. 6.] 

No. 391.] Mexican Legation in the United States of America, 

Washington, May 25, 1866. 

The commissioners of Don Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna called upon me- 
again to day. 

********* 

I answered Mr. Santa Anna's letter, of which I sent you a copy yesterday, im 
the terms which you will see in the enclosed copy of my answer. 
I repeat the assurances of my most distinguished consideration. 

M. ROMERO.. 
The Minister of Foreign Relations, Paso del Norte. 



[Enclosure No. 7. ] 

Washington, May 25, 1866; 

Dear Sir: Your commissioners, Don Louis Vidal y Rivas, Colonel Dario' 
Mazuera, Don Abraham Baiz, and Don Rafael Pombo, placed in my hands yes- 
terday the letter which you have been pleased to address to me under date of 
the 21st instant, from Elizabethport, advising me of your arrival in this country, 
on your way to Mexico, where, as you inform me, you desire to go to fight for 
the independence of the country, under the direction of its chief magistrate. 

In compliance with your request in the said communication that I would 
transmit the same to the President of the republic, I forwarded yesterday a copy- 
to the minister of foreign relations and of government. 



356 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

I have listened with interest to what your commissioners have stated, to me, 

in your name, with regard to your intentions and the motives that have guided 

.your conduct. To avoid any misunderstanding, I think it proper to put my 

reply to them in writing, to be delivered to you as the result of their mission. 

It' you had not been the first to propose the establishment of a European 
monarchy in Mexico, when you were at the head of the nation, and had not 
recognized and sustained the intervention which the Emperor of the French is 
inflicting upon our country, as is proved by the documents recently published, 
I do not think there would be any difficulty in the government of the republic 
accepting and making use of your services, for, in a foreign war so holy as the 
present, all party differences should disappear; and, in my opinion, not even the 
President would have the right to prevent any Mexican, desirous of defending 
his country, from complying with his duty in this regard. 

But, unfortunately, in your case, there are peculiar circumstances that change 
the aspect of the question. Besides resting now under the stain of having 
recognized and given all the weight of your influence to the treasonable project 
of overturning the national government of our country and establishing another 
that would make it a mere dependency of France, there is the circumstance that 
during the later years of your life you have been intimately associated with the 
reactionary party of Mexico, which is the party, as is well known, that has been 
the promoter and supporter of the unpatriotic designs that I have mentioned. 

This is calculated to give rise to apprehensions that in the participation you 
are seeking to secure in the affairs of the republic you might undertake either 
to promote another revolution, as you have often done before, in favor of that 
party, or for the purpose of protecting the guilty members of it, which would 
be a new cause of disagreement and a great evil to our country, as thus the just 
expectations of our people would be frustrated ; or, at least, that you might try 
to create a new party, and thus give rise to other dissensions which could only 
result in the benefit of our invaders. All these circumstances render it a difficult 
•question, in my judgment, to decide whether it would be for the interest of our 
country that your services should be accepted or not. This question, as well from 
its grave importance as from the knowledge it requires of the circumstances of 
the nation, can only be decided by the chief magistrate of the republic to whom 
the Mexican people have confided its destinies. 

1 do not doubt that you are disposed to make the proper explanations and to 
give the necessary securities ; nor do I doubt that, in view of all this and of the 
circumstances of the republic, the President will decide as may be best for the 
interests of the country. 

Without awaiting his decision, I can say that I believe it to be your duty not 
to undertake any proceedings that may create difficulties or complications for 
the government or the nation if your services are not accepted. 
I am, very attentively, your obedient servant, 

M. ROMERO. 

Senor Don Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna, 

Elizabethport. 



[Enclosure No. 8.] 

No. 289.] Department of Foreign Relations and of Government, 

CJiihuahua, July 6, 1866. 

With your note (No. 389) of the 24th of May last you enclosed to me copy of 
the communication addressed to you, under date of the 21st, by Don Antonio 
Lopez de Santa Anna, and with your note (No. 391) of the 25th of the same 
month you enclosed to me copy of your reply. 

In this communication Senor Santa Anna manifested to you his desire to now 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 357 

lend his services to the cause of the republic against the foreign intervention, 
and he asked you to transmit his communication to the government. You re- 
plied that you had so transmitted it, and explained to him the reasons why you 
judged it proper that you should leave it to the government to determine whether 
his services should be accepted or not. 

Your two notes have been laid before the President of the republic, and he 
has approved your conduct in the affair. 

Since the commencement of the existing war, in which Mexico defends her 
independence and her republican institutions against the pretensions of a for- 
eign intervention, it has been the constant rule of the government of the repub- 
lic never in any manner to refuse to accept, on account of past differences of a 
purely political character, the services of all Mexicans who in good faith desire 
to volunteer and loyally to defend the cause of their country. Far from op- 
posing difficulties to those who have so proceeded, impelled by a noble patriot- 
ism, the government has justly esteemed and has accepted with satisfaction the 
services of those whom it might before have considered as political adversaries. 
Many of these are now combatting under the flag of the government, and others 
have already consummated their consecration to the country by a glorious death. 

If the government could consider Senor Santa Anna in this condition, it 
would not hesitate for a single moment in thankfully accepting the offer of his 
services ; but the grave charges which appear in all his previous conduct do not 
permit it to have any security in the loyalty of his intentions, nor even is there 
any doubt which might incline it in his favor. 

This is not the occasion to enumerate the numerous charges that have been 
made and are now being made against him by honorable men of all parties and 
of all opinions, who consider him as the first and most constant promoter of an- 
archy, of immorality and of corruption. It is sufficient now to notice particu- 
larly the principal part which he has had in placing in peril the independence 
of the country, and in bringing upon it all the evils of a foreign intervention. 

In the documents which have been published by his own accomplices, it is 
seen that when at the head of the government of the republic he solicited in 
1854 European intervention, that he continued laboring for the same object 
thereafter, and that when Maximilian was proposed as its instrument he hum- 
bly offered to him his person, his influence and his services. Scarcely two years 
have passed since Senor Santa Anna came to the national territory with the 
hope of obtaining the reward of his treason, and solemnly protesting that the 
last conviction of his life was the monarchy, and his last desire to submit him- 
self to a foreign power. 

Defrauded in his hopes, rejected and banished by his own accomplices, who 
feared they might afterwards be betrayed by him, he did not even then resolve 
to serve his country, even although impelled by resentment at the insults he had 
received. The intervention then appeared powerful, and he did not wish to 
participate in the perils of the defenders of his country. Not until two years 
afterwards has he come to offer his services, when he has seen that the last hour 
of the intervention is about to strike 

If those who, led by him, have called in the foreigner, have believed that they 
had well-founded motives to distrust and fear that he would afterwards prove a 
traitor to them, how much greater would be the distrust and apprehension, upon 
seeing him at their side, of the defenders of the republic. Remembering that he 
had affiliated with all parties, that he had proclaimed every cause, and that he 
had recently protested his final adhesion to the foreign monarchy, they would 
not wish to combat in the same camp, fearing that he would deliver them up, 
and they would not wish to unite with him, much less place themselves under 
his orders, fearing that he would contrive their destruction. 

They would even fear, as already some have said, that he came sent by the 
foreign intervention in order to introduce an element of discord among the de- 



358 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

fenders of the republic, and in order that, on the termination of the intervention, 
those who have favored and sustained it might have in him a friend and sup- 
porter. 

Even supposing that the intentions of Senor Santa Anna should now be loyal, 
the constant suspicion which would be awakened by his past acts would render 
not only useless under the present circumstances, but even prejudicial, the ad- 
mission of his services. 

Although the government might wish to place in him some confidence, it does 
not believe it possible that it would also be felt by the defenders of the national 
cause. 

In order not to believe in his new protests of patriotism, they would repeat 
that he has violated before all his oaths, and that he has broken before his most 
solemn engagements. 

In order not to believe his new protests of loyalty to the republic, they would 
repeat the charges that have been made, that as an officer he has been disloyal 
to all the governments that have employed him ; that as the head of the govern- 
ment he has been disloyal to all the parties who have aided him to power ; and 
that as a Mexican he has been lately disloyal to the cause of his country. 

For these considerations the President of the republic does not believe it in 
any manner compatible with his duty to admit the offer which Senor Santa 
Anna has 'now sought to make of his services. Nor does he believe that his 
manifestations or protests of patriotism can be in any manner considered as 
sufficient to relieve him from the very grave charges which exist against him. 

Senor Santa Anna having asked you to transmit to the government his com- 
munication, you will be pleased to transmit to him this reply. I renew to you 
my most distinguished consideration. 

LERDO DE TEJADA. 

The Citizen Matias Romero, 

Minister of the Mexican Republic in the 

United States of America, Washington, D. C. 



[Enclosure No. 9.] 

Mexican Legation in the United States of America, 

Washington, August 6, 1866. 

In my letter to you on the 25th of May last, in reply to yours of the 21st of 
the same month, I informed you I had sent your note of that date to the gov- 
ernment of the republic, in accordance with your wishes. This day I received 
a note from Mr. Lerdo de Tejada, minister of foreign relations and government 
of the republic, dated in Chihuahua, the 6th of July last, and numbered 289, 
containing the answer of our government to your offer of sendees. 

In accordance with instructions to me in that note, I send you a copy of it. 

I embrace the occasion to renew the assurances of my most attentive con- 
sideration. 

M. ROMERO. 

Senor Don Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna, 

New York. 

Washington, August 12, 1866. 
A true copy : 

F. D. MACIN, 
Second Secretary of the Legation. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 359 



[Enclosure No. 10.] 

We, Maximilian, emperor of Mexico, decree : 

Article 1. There shall be appointed a receiver to take an inventory of the 
property which Don Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna possesses within the limits 
of the empire. 

Art. 2. Said receiver shall keep an exact account of the revenues yielded by 
such property, and shall make deposit of said revenues for safe-keeping, without 
deducting any sums except such as, with the approbation of this government, 
shall be allotted to the members of Santa Anna's family actually residing within 
the territory of the empire. 

Art. 3. No contract having relation to the said property shall have the force 
of law without the written approbation of the said receiver. 

Our minister of the interior is charged with the execution of the present 
decree. 

Given at the palace, in Mexico, the 12th day of July, 1S66. 

MAXIMILIAN. 



By order of the emperor 



JOSE SALAZAR LLARREGUI, 

Minister of the Interior. 



No. 117. 

Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero. 

Department of State, 
* Washington, August 20, 1866. 
Sir : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of 
the 12th instant, containing some documents with regard to the offer of General 
Santa Anna of his services to your government and the refusal of the same to 
accept them, for which be pleased to accept my thanks. 

I avail myself of this opportunity to renew to you the assurances of my most 
distinguished consideration. 



Senor Don M. Romero, Sfc, fyc, 8fc. 



WILLIAM n. SEWARD. 



No. US. 

Mr. Romero to Mr. Seivard. 

[Translation. ] 

Mexican Legation to the United States of America, 

Washington, September 29, 1866. 
Mr. Secretary : I have the honor to transmit to you, for the information of 
the government of the United States, the documents mentioned in the accom- 
panying index relative to Don Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna's offer of his ser- 
vices to the government of Mexico, to which I alluded in my notes of the 26th 
of May and the 12th of August last to your department. 

I am pleased to avail myself of this opportunity to renew to you, Mr. Secre- 
tary, the assurances of my most distinguished consideration. 

M. ROMERO. 
Hon. William H. Seward, §c, 8fc., fyc. 



360 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 



Index of documents sent by the Mexican Legation in Washington to the De- 
partment of State of the United States, with its note of this date, relating to 
Don Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna. 



No. 




Contents. 



1 


1866. 
Sept. 5 


2 


Sept. 


20 


3 


Sept. 


25 


4 


July 


29 


5 


Aug. 


5 


6 


Aug. 


16 


7 


Aug. 


19 


8 
9 


Sept. 
June 


7 

28 



10 



July 16 



11 

12 


July 
Aug. 


17 

27 


13 


Aug. 


28 




Aug. 


28 


14 


Sept. 


1 


15 


Sept. 


5 



Don Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna's reply to Mr. Eomero's letter of the 
25th of May last, and Mr. Lerdo de Tejada's note of the 6th of July 
following. 

Mr. Romero's refutation of Don A. L. de Santa Anna's charges and impu- 
tations in the preceding letter. 

Mr. Mariscal sends a copy of said letter to Mr. Ferrer de Conto, to be pub- 
lished in the Cronica. 

Protest of Mexicans residing in San Francisco, California, against Don 
Antonio L. de Santa Anna's interference in public affairs in Mexico. 

Protest of Mexicans residing in New Almaden, California, on the same 
subject. 

Protest of Mexicans residing in San Andres, California, for the same 
purpose. 

Protest of Mexicans residing in Virginia City, Nevada, for a similar 
purpose. 

Protest of Mexicans residing in San Juan Bautista, with the same intention. 

Extracts of the case of Taylor against Montgomery and Canedo, about the 
purchase of the steamer Agnes, in the name of Don A. L. de Santa 
Anna, to bring him from St Thomas to the United States. 

Extracts from the report of the suit of Don A. L. de Santa Anna against 
Abraham Baiz, for embezzlement of money given to him intrust. 

Reply of Abraham Baiz's lawyers. 

Santa Anna's case in the supreme court of New York, before Judge Bar- 
nard, against Dario Mazuera and Abraham Baiz for breach of trust. 

Notice of the suit of L.fUartin Montgomery against Don A. L. de Santa 
Anna, demanding $60,000 for services rendered as his agent. 

Santa Anna's power of attorney given to Dario Mazuera, in St. Thomas, 
on the 12th of December, 1865, authorizing him to act for him in tbe 
United States. 

Notice of L. M Montgomery's suit against Don A. L. de Santa Anna, for 
services rendered. 

Notice of Emilia Cupia's suit against Don Luis G. Vidal y Rivas, for debt 
and his imprisonment. 



Washington, September 29, 1866. 



IGNO. MARISCAL, Secretary. 



[Enclosure No. 1.] 

No. 8 West Twenty-eighth Street, 

New York, September 5, 1866. 

Sir : I acknowledge receipt of your note of the 5th ultimo, enclosing a copy 
of that of Don Sebastian Lerdo de Tejada, secretary for foreign affairs, dated 
at Chihuahua, July 6, 1866. 

I had previously received your letter of May 25, in reply to my own of the 
21st of the same month, in which I tendered once more my services for the de- 
fence of the national cause. The singular terms of which you make use in this 
letter, casting highly offensive and unjust imputations on my character, had re- 
strained me from answering it ; but, as the two notes mentioned at the begin- 
ning of this communication reproduce and officially approve those terms, I am 
compelled to reply to those imputations once for all. Before going any further, 
allow me to observe that the rude and aggressive tone in which you respond to 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 361 

the courteous offer of my services in so solemn a cause seems to me not only- 
out of place, but wholly unworthy of a public man. 

In the notes alluded to, you see fit to make me the object of the most black- 
ening charges. Senor Lerdo de Tejada, with equal disregard, adopts the same 
course. I feel, therefore, in duty bound, for the sake of truth, to oppose to said 
charges my most explicit and emphatic denial. 

You say in your letter of May 25 (subsequently approved by Senor Tejada) 
that <; I was the first to solicit the establishment of a European monarchy in 
Mexico when I was at the head of the supreme government," and that " I have 
recognized and supported the intervention of the French Emperor in our coun- 
try's affairs, as appears from documents recently published." I had, until now, 
no idea that any one would regard as real evidence the gratuitous charges of 
persons who, among our own couutiymen as well as among other people, are 
ever found ready to attack the members of any government without specifying 
or proving in proper form any of their accusations, but content themselves with 
uttering vain and declamatory accusations that have no weight except in the 
estimation of the ignorant. If the urbanity and courtesy with which I have 
always treated even those whom I have had to oppose has induced you to sus- 
pect me of supporting this or that form of government, you have fallen into a 
very serious mistake. In our past national struggles I have always treated 
Frenchmen, Spaniards, and North Americans, even on the field of battle, with 
that politeness which is invariably observed among cultivated men. It was re- 
served for you and Senor Lerdo de Tejada to reject the offer of my services to 
our country under the very strange pretext, indeed, of my alleged treason to all 
causes and parties. 

If we except the present struggle, (and, as you say, it was brought upon our 
country, not by me, but by our evil passions and domestic discords,) there has 
not been a single instance in which Mexico v from the time of her political trans- 
formation in 1821, has been engaged in war that I was not the first to come 
forward to serve her unreservedly with my person and private resources. Thus 
you see that the courtesy and politeness with which I treated the imperial au- 
thorities, when it became necessary, is inadvertently made the basis of a charge 
of treason against me, and it is taken for granted that my obedience to the plain 
dictates of prudence is nothing but infidelity to my country. Facts, with their 
irresistible logic, are justifying me. Those decrees of expulsion with which the 
French intervention has favored me do not certainly afford e7idence of that sup- 
port given to the usurpers which has been so gratuitously attributed to me. 

Further on you state your reasons for not accepting my services on behalf of 
the republican cause, remarking that '' during the late years of my life I have 
appeared associated with the conservative party of Mexico, a party which," you 
say, " has promoted the anti-patriotic project of subjugating Mexico." " This," 
you continue, " would cause every one to fear that by having a share in the 
affairs of the republic I should contemplate a new revolution, as (so you say) I 
have done at other times in favor of the same party, and with the decided ob- 
ject of securing the impunity of its guilty members, thus disappointing the 
reasonable hopes of our people." 

I do not understand how ideas so erroneous and incoherent can have occurred 
to you. If any real fear is entertained of my supposed design to lead a new 
revolution in the exclusive interest of one party, let me ask how could I start 
such a scheme by placing my sword at the service of its most bitter antagonists 1 
If such were the case I should be commencing in the worst possible manner, and 
should sacrifice by such a step that irresistible influence which you say that 1 
hold over the conservative party. Moreover, it would become impossible in 
such a way for me to make a whole, uniform, and compact body of that party. 
If I had any other object in view than that of uniting all parties in the defence 
of the republic and its independence, I would not have placed my services at 



362 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

the disposal of those very leaders whom I had heretofore to oppose in arms 
while I was at the head of pubic affairs, and they were trying to disturb public 
order and to upset our political institutions. By this step I have tried to set an 
example, for our ruin is certain if, in the interest of our common country, we do 
not aU forget our domestic dissensions and discords, and use our united endeavors 
in defence of the republic against all foreign and domestic enemies. • 

You, as well as Senor Tejada, charge that I did not offer my services to the 
republic in the day when the intervention appeared too powerful, but that now 
I do, when the intervention is about to be abandoned. I never looked upon the 
intervention as a very powerful and permanent institution. There is no foreign 
yoke so strong that a people, however weak they may be, cannot finally shake 
off. But it is sad for one who loves his country to see ill ft- elings, hatred, and 
revenge preside over the councils of even those who are at the head of a move- 
ment so worthy of the best success. 

I do not, indeed, deplore so much the calumnious imputations of which I am 
made the object as that inexorable disregard with which the extermination of an 
important and valuable circle of Mexican society is boldly proclaimed. The 
terms in which you and the government at Chihuahua proscribe a numerous 
party of the Mexican people, form a perfectly horrible programme of death and 
desolation. It is an easy matter to set a place on fire, but not so easy to set 
bounds to the damage it may do, or to foretell the number of victims it may 
sweep away. 

I clo thinly believe that unless our domestic quarrels and hatreds be stifled, 
we can never expect to witness a cessation of this effusion of blood by our coun- 
trymen, or an end to the calamities that now afflict our unfortunate nation. Out 
of decorum I have carefully abstained from making any personal imputations 
while repelling the charges with which you and Senor Tejada have sought to 
overwhelm me, and which rest on the supposition that I am influenced by the 
worst of motives, and to judge even my inward intentions. Are you not aware 
of the confiscation of my valuable estates by the imperial authorities in punish- 
ment of my adhesion to the national cause 1 

I might as well have made no reply to the vague and unfounded charges con- 
tained in your notes alluded to, but I feared that my silence regarding points of 
so much delicacy may be construed in an unfavorable sense. 

As to my past career, to which you allude by saying that I have served all 
parties, allow me to inform you that no partisan feeling has ever actuated my 
official conduct. As a soldier I have always been found at the post assigned to 
me by my duty. You cannot be ignorant that, in our international conflicts, I 
have always fought under that same flag which I was the first to unfurl before 
the civilized world — even before the formation of our republic. The rough 
terms in which your notes reject my services do not deter me from doing my 
best in behalf of our people. I am still influenced by the same desire. I ac- 
knowledge the same duty of using in the service of my country that sword with 
which she honored me in her brightest days. The people to whom you appeal 
will know how to appreciate my devotedness in thus disregarding the scorn of 
men whom I had to oppose, in former times, in the defence of our Mexican in- 
stitutions. For my part I will always continue to promote union among our 
countrymen, considering it an indispensable condition for the triumph of the 
republic. 

I am, very respectfully, your most obedient servant, 

A L. DE ST A. ANNA. 

His Excellency Don M. Romero, 

Minister from the Republic of Mexico, at Washington, D. C. 

Washington, September 29, 1866. 
A true copy : 

IGNO. MAEISCAL, Secretary. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 363 

[Enclosure No. 2.] 

Washington, September 20, 1866. 

Dkar Sir : Night before last I received your communication of the 5th in- 
stant, in reply to mine of the 25th of May last and 6th of August following, with 
the last of which 1 sent you the answer of our government to your offer of ser- 
vices in your letter of the 25th of May, already mentioned. 

The reason why it was so long reaching me was, it was mailed unpaid to the 
post office, most likely through the oversight of jour secretary, as you will see by 
the envelope which 1 return to you, and was not forwarded, but sent to the dead 
letter office of the department in Washington, whence it was sent to me by cour- 
tesy the night before last. I make this explanation to excuse myself for not 
answering your communication sooner. 

Here I ought to conclude this letter were it not for your remarks and charges 
made upon the government I represent, and upon me in person, which compel 
me to give a more lengthy "reply to your communication. This I prefer doing 
in a private letter, because I can thus speak to you more frankly than I could 
in the official style. 

You call the language used in the reply to your offer of services as seeming 
rude and offensive, and you term it improper and altogether unsuited to public 
men. These complaints, which I think without foundation, reached me since 
my letter of the 25th of May was in the hands of your commissioners. If you 
had confined yourself to making an offer of your services in writing, I would 
have done no more than acknowledge the receipt of your communication, and 
informed you that I would transmit it to my government ; but, besides writing, 
you saw proper to send a committee composed of four gentlemen, who were to 
explain your wishes and plans to me. According to your instructions, and the 
tenor of your letter of the 21st of May to me, they entered into minute expla- 
nations, with great candor on my part, about the condition of our country, 
and the propriety of accepting or declining your services. After two long in- 
terviews with them, I thought it my duty to put the principal points of my 
remarks in writing, so that there should be no doubt about my meaning. In 
my letter I did my best to be frank without being disrespectful to you. I had 
no cause to offend you, nor would I have used it had there been a reason. I 
have too much respect for the position in which my government has placed me 
to abuse it by entering into personal disputes. Moreover, it would have been 
very ungenerous in me to seek to offend you, when you were offering your ser- 
vices to our country. This is not my nature. If, therefore, you found some 
sentences in my letter which you thought harsh, and perhaps so might have 
been, you must attribute them to the circumstances and facts emanating from 
your antecedents, and not to any inoble desire to insult you. 

Allow me, sir, to inform you, once for all, that, as I took no part in the public 
affairs of our country while you were in it — for I have only been connected with 
politics in Mexico since December, 1855, and you left Vera Cruz in August of 
that year — I have never had you for an opponent in politics, nor have I suffered 
any injury from you or your government, and, of course, have not the slightest 
cause of resentment against you. I look upon you as a historical character, and 
I judge you, and have always judged you, as far as I was able, with the same 
impartiality you might expect from future generations. 

You complain that I made charges against you in my letter of the 25th of 
May, which yuu term defamatory, and say are without foundation. They are 
two, namely : 

First. That you were the first to solicit the establishment of a foreign mon- 
archy in Mexico when you exercised the supreme power. 

Second. That you recognized and supported the intervention which the Em- 
peror of the French has brought to our country. 



364 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

These two facts are so well known, and have been acknowledged by you on 
so many occasions, and in so many ways, that I am surprised that you now 
attempt to deny them, and that you term them "gratuitous imputations." You 
may allege, as an extenuating circumstance, that you were mistaken, as you 
have already said ; you may say that the error was in good faith ; that thus 
you thought to promote the well-being and prosperity of our country ; but the 
fact that you solicited the establishment of a foreign government in Mexico, and 
that you acknowledged and submitted to French intervention, and gave it the 
support of your name, is altogether undeniable. 

To convince you that I am not " repeating the imputations that have been 
thrown upon you without proof or substantiation of the charges," I would inform 
you, at the risk of being prolix, that the publications recently made by your 
late political friends furnish all the proof necessary in this particular. The full 
powers you gave to Don Jose Maria Gutierrez de Estrada, on the 1st day of 
July, 1854, while you were dictator in Mexico, "authorizing him to negotiate 
with the courts of London, Paris, Madrid, and Vienna, and to make due efforts 
to obtain from these governments, or any one of them, the establishment of 
a monarchy, derived from one of the dynastic houses of those powers : " This 
might prove whether or not how disinterested you were, when you were ready 
to give up your place to a foreign prince at a time when you could have made 
yourself monarch, as you assert in your manifest of the 7th of June last ; but it 
leaves the fact that you did solicit the establishment of a European monarchy 
beyond doubt. 

In the same documents before quoted, published in January last in numbers 
20 and 22 of the so-called Diario del Imperio, the authenticity of which you 
have never disputed, it is seen that as soon as you heard that the Emperor 
Napoleon had decided to send the Archduke Maximilian to Mexico — that is, on 
the 30th of November, 1861, even before the allied forces had arrived upon the 
territory of the republic you wrote to Mr. Gutierrez Estrada from the island of 
St. Thomas, as follows : 

" The candidate of whom you speak (his imperial highness the Archduke 
Maximilian) is unexceptionable, and, of course, I hasten to give him my appro- 
bation." Not yet satisfied, you wrote a letter to the archduke himself on the 
22d of December, 1863, expressing great admiration for him personally, and 
making protests of submission of such a nature they might serve as a model of 
epistolary style for despotic governments. 

You next went to Vera Cruz, and on the 28th February, 1864, you wrote to 
Don Juan de D. Peza, so-called under secretary of war and marine of the re- 
gency established by the French, informing him you had returned to Mexico 
"to co-operate, as much as you could, in the consolidation of the government 
created by the intervention ; " and you concluded by asking that the so-called 
regency might give you any orders it esteemed convenient. 

If, after this, you persist in saying you did not recognize the acts of the 
French intervention, we must confess that language with you has a different 
meaning from what the generality of men give to it. 

In the communication I am now auswering you say : " If you take the polite- 
ness and civility with which I am accustomed to treat even those who are 
opposed to me as evidences of a support to this or that government, you are 
very much mistaken." 

If you call your support of French intervention in Mexico by the name of 
civility and politeness, we can hardly believe your offer of services to us in May 
last to be serious. Perhaps you will hereafter call that mere politeness and 
civility, particularly when, on comparing the terms of the two offers, we find 
the language of the latter much more expressive than that of the former. 

Continuing your very difficult task to prove that you did not recognize inter- 
vention, you say : 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO 365 

" Facts are in open conlradiction to you. Did the partisans of Maximilian, or 
the French who sustained him, allow me to stay a moment on the soil of our 
country ? " 

And further on you add : 

" Do you not know that my immense estates have been confiscated as a pun- 
ishment for my adhesion to the national cause?" 

Because the French and traitors did not admit you, it is no proof that you 
did not offer them the influence of your name, and even the assistance of your 
sword ; bat it is a proof that, on account of your past conduct, and from the 
peculiarities of the present, you did not inspire them with confidence. 

The fact that the usurper has ordered the sequestration of your property in 
the State of Vera Cruz, far from demonstrating that you did not recognize him, 
is a proof that you are a traitor to his cause. The property of Mexicans who 
did their duty from the first by opposing French intervention and all its conse- 
quences, has not been systematically sequestrated or confiscated, while yours 
has been. This goes to show that you have been with them, and they have 
reason to treat you with especial severity. 

These two points settled, I now proceed to the others mentioned in your com- 
munication. 

You say in two places that I rejected your services, which I do not think is 
exactly so. You offered them to my government, through me. I immediately 
sent your offer to the President of the republic, and in my conference with your 
commissioners I told them frankly why I thought it was doubtful whether they 
would be accepted, and why I could not accept them. The goverment could 
have accepted them even after what I said, if it deemed it would be for the 
interest of our country. 

Among the reasons I then gave for thinking of doubtful expediency the 
acceptance of your offer, I mentioned that your alliance during the last years of 
your life with the conservative party of Mexico, who have been the originators 
and supporters of the anti-patriotic project to constitute Mexico a dependency of 
France, would cause a fear that in your participation in the affairs of the repub- 
lic you might try to excite a revolution in favor of that party, so as to leave 
guilty persons unpunished, or attempt to establish a new party. 

You are pleased to term these powerful considerations " incoherent and con- 
tradictory arguments," and proceed to explain why you say so. No one who is 
acquainted with your antecedents, and who judges you impartially, can fail to 
see the foundation of those fears. 

The fact that the republic as well as the French have rejected your offers, 
shows that both Mexicans and French doubt your good faith and fear your 
defections. No one can doubt that you have given cause for this mistrust. 

You say, in speaking about the parties of Mexico, you are favoring no party 
in Mexico, but your only desire is to unite all in defence of the republic and 
independence. 

Further on you say : " Certainly I do not deplore the defamatory imputations 
made upon me so much as I do that inexcusable blindness with which the 
extermination of a valuable portion of our society is openly proclaimed. The 
terms in which you and the government of Chihuahua proscribe a large portion 
of the Mexican people presents a programme of death and desolation too horrible 
to contemplate." 

I might agree with you in some of your remarks about the conciliation of 
parties ; in regard to the others, I must say to you that nothing in my letter of 
the 25th of May, nor anything in the note from Mr. Lerdo de Tejada of the 
6th of July, justifies the interpretation you give to both documents. 

There must be parties in republican governments to serve as barriers to usurp- 
ation of those in power and as a counterpoise to the executive ; and as long as 
they keep within legal limits, they are an advantage rather thau an evil to the 



366 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

• 
nation. Their organization and aims depend upon questions of the clay, and 
end with them. The principal question discussed in Mexico since the estab- 
lishment of the republic is progress, and the party advocating it is termed the 
liberal party ; the party in favor of the statu quo or retrogression is called the 
conservative party. 

The members of this last party exceeded the limits of law and patriotism 
when they solicited the intervention of a foreign nation in the domestic affairs 
of its country, to overthrow the national government and establish an order of 
things which, whatever may be the appearance, could only constitute it a Euro- 
pean dependency. Now, this party, with few exceptions, recognized the inter- 
vention which some of its leaders had solicited, and have continued to support it. 
From that moment it ceased to be a political party and changed into a traitor 
faction. 

The liberal party, with the exception of a few renegades, believed it a duty 
to oppose foreign intervention and defend the independence of the country at 
all hazards. From that time the names and objects of the parties changed. 
One is the national or independent, struggling against foreign conquest ; the 
other is the traitor Frenchified party, composed of those who favor the invader 
of the country. 

All the former conservatives who were animated by patriotic sentiments, and 
did not choose to follow their party, have met with a kind of frank welcome 
from the national party; and the few liberals who joined the usurper now 
belong to the traitor faction. The efforts of the national government to rally 
around its flag all Mexicans, without distinction of party, are well known. All 
those who invited the invader, or are assisting him materially, no matter whether 
they were called conservatives or liberals, are guilty of treason in my opinion, 
and ought to be punished according to law. This is required by public morality, 
for the welfare of society. 

In my letter of the 25th May, I did not say it was feared your intervention 
in the politics of our country would cause a revolution in favor of the conserva- 
tive party for the purpose of saving that party from punishment, but only the 
guilty members, and this is not proscribing the whole party, as you seem to 
understand it. 

In this second war of independence the same events are taking place that 
occurred in the first ; a portion of the nation, though much less than that which 
joined the Spaniards then, now unite with the French. Those fought against 
their brothers who were contending for the most sacred right upon earth ; these 
strive now, under the French flag, to subjugate the common mother. 

The inexperience and candor of our fathers induced them to accept those 
Mexicans opposed to independence when for personal interest they abandoned 
the cause they were defending, and left the situation in their hands. The evil 
consequence of this serious error was immense, and the present French inter- 
vention is one of the results. To make the parable more perfect, there is your- 
self, who first fought with the Spaniards and then turned independent ; now 
helping French intervention, then opposing it. I consider it the duty of every 
Mexican, however little love he may have for his country, to contend against 
the repetition of the error of 1821. 

In conclusion, you say " your public conduct has never been governed by 
party motives," and that, " as a soldier, you have always occupied the post 
of duty." 

It seems to me altogether unnecessary for me to dwell upon your antecedents, 
as nothing could be gained by the discussion. Your acts are indelibly consigned 
to history ; and I think I can assure you that no one who desires to hand down 
a spotless name to posterity would envy you some of your antecedents. 

If any doubt remains about the good sense and correct judgment of the Mexi- 
can government in rejecting your services, you have dissipated it by declaring 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 367 

your intention of taking part in Mexican affairs, even against the resolution of 
the government of the republic. If you had that intention, your offer of services 
could certainly not have been in good faith. 

If you acknowledge the President as the supreme chjef of the nation, who is 
to direct the defence of the country, you ought to submit to his determination. 
If this is unjust or inconsiderate, the responsibility falls on him, and not on you; 
but, after knowing that he considers your presence in the republic as prejudicial 
to the cause of independence, if you insist upon entering the country, whether 
to join the unrepenting traitors, or to raise a new party, either act will be con- 
sidered as unpatriotic and criminal. 

You say "you have refrained from personal imputations of every kind, through 
respect, while repeating those used so profusely by Mr. Lerdo de Tejada and 
myself." 

I presume you do not mean by this, that you could give mean motives of 
our conduct towards you. If this is so, it is certainly your duty to the nation 
to make the revelation. If it alludes solely to personalities, having no connec- 
tion with public affairs, you have acted very prudently in not mentioning them. 

In accordance with this principle, I too have refrained from everything not 
in direct connection with the acceptance of your services. However, I cannot 
but mention, in connection with this incident, that you would have spared much 
discredit to the good name of Mexico if you had never come to this country; for 
your conduct in New York, the facts your different lawsuits have brought to 
light, whether as plaintiff or defendant, and every other incident of your litiga- 
tions, are of such a nature that they bring the blush to the cheeks of every man 
who has the least regard for the honor and good name of Mexico in other 
countries. 

In various parts of your letter you attribute to me expressions made by Mr. 
Lerdo de Tejada ; as when you say, " I accuse you of not offering your services 
to the republic when you thought intervention successful, and now, when it is 
about to expire, you offer your aid to the victors." In other places you assert 
what neither of us had said ; for instance, speaking of the conservative party, 
you say, " I imagine you have an irresistible influence on it." I can find no such 
sentence in my letter to you, or anything that could authorize you to attribute 
it to me. 

I have purposely refrained from taking any notice of what you say in regard 
to Mr. Lerdo de Tejada, as that gentleman is fully capable of answering you 
much better than 1 could, if he thought proper to do so. 

In conclusion, I must inform you that this letter ends the discussion of your 
remarks in the note of the 5th ; and if yon do write me another letter, I hope 
you will excuse me from answering it, for I believe the continuation of this dis- 
cussion cau result in no good. Facts, in regard to doubtful points, will demon- 
strate who is right, or who has come nearest to the truth. 

I remain, sir, vour most attentive and obedient servant, 

M. ROMERO. 

Senor Don Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna, New York City. 

Washington, September 29, 1S66. 
A true copy : 

IGNO. MARISCAL, Secretary. 



[Enclosure No. 3.] 

Mexican Legation, 
Washington, September 25, 1S66. 
To the Editor of La Cronica : 

Mr. Romero, minister of the Mexican republic, having seen, in your issue of 
the loth instant, that Don Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna, now a resident of 



368 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

your city, saw fit to publish the communication he addressed to Mr. Romero on 
the 5th instant, casting to the government he represents, and to himself person- 
ally, various imputations altogether unfounded, I have been instructed by him 
to beg of you to publish in your paper his answer to Sefior Santa Anna, a copy 
of which is herewith enclosed. 

Mr. Romero would not have been willing to have his answer published had 
he not been provoked to do so, as he believes that a discussion of this kind, 
carried on among Mexicans living in a foreign country, cannot be of any profit. 
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

FGNACIO MARISOAL, 
Secretary of the Mexican Legation. 



[Enclosure No. 4. ] 

PROTEST OF THE MEXICAN CITIZENS RESIDENT IN SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA, 
AGAINST DON ANTONIO LOPEZ DE SANTA ANNA. 

, As,, according to information received from New York, Don Antonio Lopez 
de Santa Anna is laboring to connect himself with the affairs of Mexico, from 
whence he has been rejected by the national will, the Mexicans resident in San 
Francisco, California, considering that the publication of a manifesto made in 
New York by Don Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna is a proof that he is seeking 
to interpose obstacles to the re-establishment of order, which has been inter- 
rupted in the republic by the foreigners called in by the said Santa Anua 
himself ; 

Considering that Santa Anna, in addition to the crimes which he has com- 
mitted in the several epochs when he has occupied the supreme power, whether 
as the so-called supporter of liberal principles, or as the supporter of the re 
actionists, in either case seeking only to give greater scope to his ignoble pas- 
sions, now adds the most odious crime of treason in having charged Gutierrez 
Estrada to negotiate for a European prince, and afterwards swearing humble 
homage to that same prince, whom he called emperor ; 

Considering that Don Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna has been the enemy of 
progress in Mexico, and always despotic in the exercise of power whenever he 
has been intrusted with it ; 

And considering, finally, that Santa Anna is the man of all others who has 
been the most pernicious to Mexico, who has caused the tears and blood of his 
fellow-citizens to flow whenever he has been at the head of affairs, through his 
misdeeds, his ambition, and his vices : 

We declare and protest that we, the Mexicans hereunto subscribing, unitedly 
adhere to the protest of the Mexican Club of New York against Don Antonio 
Lopez de Santa Anna, published in " El Nuevo Mundo" of the 29th of the 
month last passed ; and we invite all the patriotic clubs of this State and of 
Nevada to join in the same. 

San Francisco, July 29, 1866. 

Jose A Codoy, Teodora Peralta, 

' Bernardo Smith, Nicolas Martinez, 

Ugenio Uzeta, Jose Alcaraz, 

Ignaeio Uzarraga, Lauriano Diaz, 

P. Carmona, Tonias Jewett, 

Francisco Romero, M. E. Jimenez, 

Victoriano Guillen, Juan Ribas, 

Guillermo Wilson, Adolfo Schober, 

Miguel Martinez, Amado Mendoza, 

Teodora Mendez, F. P. Ramirez, 

John Kolnor, Clodomiro Madero, 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 3 

Christobal Juarez, Pedro Ruiz, 

Aodres Zufiiga, Antonio Pedrin, 

Jorge Andro, Augustin Ramirez, 

Sabino Ortega, Enrique Navarro, 

J. F. Lozano, Gerardo Davila, 

Jose Maria Neiro, Felipe Aguayo, 

Augustin Cardona, Frederico Aguilar, 

Augustin Jewett, And many others 

Jorge Jewett, 



[Enclosure No. 5. — Extract from the NueA'o Mundo, San Francisco, August 13, 1866. 

No. 378.1 

THE MEXICAN PATRIOTIC CLUB OF NEW ALMADEN. 

This society being stimulated by the Mexican patriotic clubs of New York 
and San Francisco, in their action against the manifest of Don Antonio Lopez 
de Santa Anna, and believing, like those societies, that any intervention in the 
policy of the national government of Mexico would result in the destruction of 
our nationality ; and considering that, with the evil influence he has exercised in 
Mexico with the conservative faction and its accomplices, the ministers of religion, 
there may be great fear of his false language finding an echo, and that rumors that 
have risen since his arrival in the United States may become true ; considering that 
some misinformed parties in the United States might lend him moral aid on his 
return to Mexico, where his mere presence would cause the most horrible an- 
archy, and only serve to fortify the hated Austrian archduke in power ; con- 
sidering that in all his different administrations of the government, he has shown 
himself to be the man to be most dreaded in our country ; considering that the 
said Santa Anna assimilated his form of government to that of the Spanish mon- 
archy, and made use of his diplomacy to solicit a European prince for the emi- 
nently republican and democratic country of Mexico ; considering that if he 
returned to our country, he might get into power by some means or other, and 
his political adversaries, without personal guarantees, would be made to disap- 
pear from the political arena under some frivolous pretext ; considering that the 
want of respect shown for us abroad, and which we lament, is the result of the 
military riots he always excited and directed ; and finally, considering that if 
the man of no fixed political principles was rejected by the imperial party, it is 
hardly probable the great republican party of Mexico would sully their ranks or 
pollute tbe holy cause by admitting him : The undersigned, therefore, for 
themselves and the inhabitants of the village, consisting mostly of Mexicans, de- 
voted to the liberal institutions of their country and to its independence, declare 
and protest : 

1st. That we view Don Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna only as the odious 
petty tyrant, whose tendencies were always to oppress us, to impoverish us, and 
betray us. 

2d. That we regard that wicked Mexican as guilty of high treason, because 
he conceived the black design of imposing a European prince upon us, when he 
found out he could not perpetuate the dictatorship he had assumed, by shedding 
torrents of Mexican blood that clothed the country in mourning for a dozen years. 

3d. That if we saw him in our country, we would be compelled to condemn 
him to the punishment he deserves, for violation of laws, of public morals, and 
human justice. 

New Almaden, August 5, 1S66. 

P. RUED A FLORE S, President. 
Jose Valenzuela. Librado Esparza. 

Romualdo Velasquez. Esteban Galvan. 

24 MEX. 



370 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 



Francisco Salmon. 
T. Vallejo. 
Miguel Tejeda. 
Jose Maria Arismeudiz. 
Juan Loyer. 
Asencion Gutierrez. 
Octaviano Gutierrez. 
Candelario Gallardo. 
Tomas Guerrero. 
Felipe de T. Alvarez. 
Apolinar Reyes. 
Jesus Salcedo. 
Pascual Borguez. 
Hombono Velasquez. 
Juan N. Benales. 
Jesus Herrera. 
Urbano Quevedo. 
Jose M. Avon. 
Domingo Morales. 
Herculano Garcia. 
Nemesio Correa. 
Antonio Estrada. 
Francisco Carrillo. 
Hermenegildo Bueno. 
Jose M. Moreno. 
Exiguio Magallanes. 
Abram Bans. 
Leon Chavira. 
Saturnino Gandara. 
Loreto Pimentel. 
Jesus Moreno. 
Juan Gonzales. 
Manuel Delgado, Secretary. 



Indalecio Villareal. 
Eulogio Franco. 
Manuel Yanez. 
Colosio Noriega. 
Joaquin Ramirez. 
Leonardo Rivera. 
Guadalupe Guerrero. 
Francisco Ohafiro. 
Pascual Borques. 
Ignacio Carillo. 
Julian Medina. 
Desiderio Sanchez. 
Jose M. Raso. 
Jesus Guerrero. 
Jose M. Montijo. 
Julian Medina. 
Antonio Cardenas. 
Cruz Flores. 
N. Casara, M. D. 
Francisco Canillo. 
Bias Mendoza. 
Francisco Pena. 
Angel Romero. 
Teodoro Ramos. 
Francisco Jimenez. 
Cruz Mercado. 
G. A. Gallardo. 
Cruz Diaz. 
Ricardo G. Huerta. 
Santiago Robles. 
Cruz Favela. 
Bias Mendoza. 



[Enclosure No. 6.] 
MEXICAN PATRIOT CLUB OF SAN ANDRES. 

San Andres, August 16, 1866. 
I have the honor to transmit to you the original protest of this club, in ap- 
proval of that made in your city by the loyal resident Mexicans, against the 
sinister pretensions of Don Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna, which you will see 
in a manifest published by him. Although this protest is not clothed in the 
flowery language of eloquence, it is none the less a sincere expression of the 
determined will and firm conviction of the Mexicans Avho have signed it. Please 
consider it as such, and accept the assurances of my attentive consideration. 
Independence and liberty ! 

JOAQUIN MIRANDA Y WIN A, President. 
Jose Antonio Godoy, 

Consul of the Mexican Republic in San Francisco. 

Mexican Patriot Club of San Andres. 

As this society is impressed with the loyal and patriotic act of the Mexican 
citizens residing in San Francisco, approving the protest of the Mexican Club 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 371 

of New York agaiust the sinister pretensions of Don Antonio Lopez <le Santa 
Anna to meddle in the affairs of Mexico ; and considering that his ex-serene 
highness has been, is, and ever will be the most implacable enemy of the great 
liberal party that instituted the excellent code of 1S57, and the reform laws ; 
considering that Don Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna, in his different and many 
terms of administration of the Mexican government, never promoted the pro- 
gress of the country, but, on the contrary, converted the national treasury into 
his personal patrimony ; considering that Don Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna 
bears the stigma of high treason to his country, for it was he who invited a 
foreign prince to rule us, and was the first to recognize him as emperor of Mexico ; 
and considering, finally, that the presence of this man in Mexican territory would 
be destructive to the interests of the republic, and a great obstacle to the final 
triumph of our good cause which we now behold so near, solemnly declares and 
protests that it adheres, in every particular, to the protest made by the Mexi- 
can citizens of San Francisco, and published in No. 373 of the Nuevo Mundo. 

Let the original of this resolution be sent to citizen Jose Antonio Godoy, 
consul of the Mexican republic in San Francisco, for consequent action. 

Sax Andres, Calaveras County, August. 16, 1866. 

Joaquin Miranda y Wina. Cornelio Bravo. 

Francisco R. Subia. Carlos Noriega. 

Pablo Amador. Guadalupe Sanchez. 

Jesus Blaisillas. Pedro Silyas. 

Jesus Morales. Benito Lopez. 

Jesus H. Eredia. Desiderio Madrid. 

Juan Meza. Feliciano Madrid. 

Jesus Sarafianas. Antonio Lopez. 

Luis Rosales. Refugio Armenta. 

Jose Ma. Cervantes. Jose Ma. Amarillas. 

Juan Martinez. Manuel Vazquez. 

Benito Lopez. Jesus Miranda. 

Jacobo Grimenez. Evaristo Chavez. 

Jesus A. Sonorita. Juan Mercado. 

Francisco Grijalva. Jose Maria Lunar. 

Manuel T. Liborio. Lorenzo Lopez. 

Zenon Cordova. Eugenio Miranda. 

Names of citizens not members of the club, but who approve the protest : 
Rafael Ochoa. Ignacio Verdugo. 

Benigno Gallegos. Francisco Castro. 

Rufino Silvas. Guillermo Cordova. 



[Enclosure No. 7.] 
MEXICAN PATRIOT CLUB OF VIRGINIA CITY, STATE OF NEVADA. 

I send you a copy of the protest made by Mexicans residing in this city, and 
beg you will request the editors of the Nuevo Mundo to insert it in their valu- 
able and estimable paper, in the name of the society. 
I repeat the assurances of my consideration and esteem. 

FRANCISCO COTA, President. 
JOSE RAMIREZ, Secretary. 
Citizen Jose A. Godoy, 

President of the Mexican Patriot Club 

of San Francisco, California. 



372 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO 

Protest made by Mexicans residing in Virginia City, State of Nevada, Story 
county, against the manifest published by Don Antonio Lopez de Santa 
Anna. ' 

After a close examination of the manifest published by Don Antonio Lopez 
de Santa Anna, and witnessing the energetic and patriotic attitude assumed by 
the patriot clubs of New York, San Francisco, and other cities of the State of 
California, protesting against any interference of the said Santa Anna in the 
political affairs with Mexico, and we, the undersigned, considering the perni- 
cious influence he would exercise in a certain class of Mexicans, hostile to pro- 
gress and the laws of reform we have instituted at great cost and with the sac- 
rifice of many precious lives, if he were to make his appearance again in Mexico, 
and which he would annul if he got the reins of government again into his hands ; 
considering that at the different times he governed us he showed his incapacity 
and want of political principle, opposing to-day what he advocated yesterday, 
and using the public revenue to increase his personal wealth ; considering that 
whenever he grasped for power he did it by illegal means, never trusting to the 
will of the nation, and never promoted the public weal, which is the prime duty 
of every ruler ; considering that, supported by mercenary bayonets and a cor- 
rupt clergy, he has been the great cause of the anarchy, ruin, and desolation 
that has involved Mexico for the last forty years ; considering that he has alien- 
ated a great portion of the Mexican territory by the disgraceful sale he made of 
it to the United States, at the time he was dictator, giving himself the pompous 
title of serene highness, and whose intolerable tyranny gave rise to the Ayutla 
constitution, that put an end to his despotism ; and considering, finally, that Don 
Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna is wanting in all those qualities that constitute 
a statesman and honorable man, we have assembled to protest, and do protest, 
against all interference of said Santa Anna in the political affairs of Mexico, and 
we ask that as soon as he treads upon Mexican territory he may be judged by 
the laws of the land, and receive the condign punishment he deserves, as guilty 
of the crime of high treason. 

FRANCISCO COTA, President. 
Virginia City, State of Nevada, 

August 19, 1866. 

Juan J. Alvarez. Manuel Encinas. 

Floreutino Alvarez. Pedro Alvarado. 

Bernardo Arambula. Pragedes Reina. 

Pascual Andrade. ■ Jose Maria Gonzales. 

Dionisio Aguilar. Zacarias Martinez. 

Bartolo Bustamante. Prudencio Macias. 

Ignacio Ceballos. Merced Areyanes. 

Rosario Carrasco. Juan Zabala. 

Trinidad Carabajal. Sacramento Duarte. 

Jose Castro. Navor Felix. 

Juan Cuevas. Santiago Ontiveros. 

Marcelino Carabantes. Ignacio Herrera. 

Eulogio Carrillo. Juan Tapia. 

Geonario M. Cordoba. Juan Carrasco. 

Luciano Collantes. Jose Venites. 

Francisco Castillo. Trajano Gomez. 

Jesus Estrada. Ramon Llaguno. 

Ambrosio Espinosa. Leandro Encinas 

Antonio Helenes. Onofre Moreno. 

Ignacio Franco. Paulino Aguiar. 

Jose Juan Grijalva. Vicente Losa. 

Francisco Gonzales. Jesus Lopez. 

Santos Guzman. Longino Duarte. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 



373 



Francisco Javier Iluerta. 
Clemente Lugo. 
Donaciano Mazon. 
Jost- M. Macias. 
Guzman Morales. 
Francisco Miranda. 
Bias Menclez. 
Antonio Matuz. 
Juan Antonio Martinez. 
Jose Maria Najar. 
Felipe Ortega. 
Antonio Orozco. 
Bias Portela. 
Jesus Peralta. 
Baltazar Rodriguez. 
Ramon Ruiz. 
Jose Maria Roldan. 
Abelardo Rostato. 
Jose Solano. 
Silvestre Toquinto. 
Jesus Vanitez. 
Antonio Valencia. 
Jose Vila. 
Merced Yillegas. 
Sacramento Lopez. 
Eulogio P. del Castillo. 
Rafael H. Gonzales . 
Gabriel Flores. 
Maximiano Lechuga. 
Jose Maria Preciado. 
Jose Padilla. 

A true copy : 



Jose Maria Ramirez. 
Hilario Arambula. 
Rosalino Soto. 
Manuel Acosta. 
Francisco Coronado. 
Antonio Coronado. 
Juan Peralta. 
Pedro Soto. 
Jose Perez. 
Bautista Parra. 
Juan Huerta. 
Isidro Pontes. 
Gabriel Hurtado. 
Ramon Fabela. 
Alejo Carrillo. 
Arcadio Valencia. 
Sostenes Guerrero. 
Felipe Torres. 
Trinidad Banagas. 
Antonio Escalante. 
Geronimo Castillo. 
Ramon Rojel. 
Antonio Castillo. 
Alejo Baldenebro. 
Jose Maria Rojel. 
Jesus Maytorena. 
Manuel Mazon. 
Jesus Cota. 
Jose Ramirez. 
Jesus Valenzuela. 
Felipe Orozco. 

JOSE RAMIREZ, Secretary. 



[Enclosure No. 8.] 

PROTEST AGAIXST DON AXTOMO LOPEZ DE SANTA ANNA — MEXICAN" PATRIOTIC 
CLUB OF SAN JUAN BAUTISTA. 

San Juan Bautista, September 7, 1S66. 
You will see by the annexed protest, which I beg you to publish, that we 
few Mexicans whose names are hereto affixed, filled with enthusiasm for the 
good of the country, and indignant at the acts of Don Antonio Lopez de Santa 
Anna, believe it our duty to make known our protest to you, hoping you will 
appreciate our sentiments, though feebly expressed. 

IGXACIO P. YILLEGAS, President. 
J. E. SEPULVEDA. Secretary. 
Citizen Jose Antonio Godoy, 

Mexican Consu7 in San Francisco. 

Patriotic Club of San Juan Bautista — meeting of the 7th September. Protest 
against Don Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna, drawn up by the undersigned, 
for himself and in the name of the other Mexicans whose names arc hereto 
signed. 
On beholding the seeming candor of Santa Anna in boasting his antecedents 

and trying to persuade the world that he is the chosen one to re-establish order 



374 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

and unity of action, we can do no less than censure him, and protest that, so 
far from accepting his services, the Mexican republic ought to judge him with 
the severity that his crimes deserve, as soon as it can be done. In his note to 
Mr. Matias Romero he offers to act in a subordinate rank, but his antecedents, 
his character, and his public life, even previous to 1822, make us believe his 
presence in Mexico would exercise that evil influence which has always presided 
over his destiny, as a soldier or a magistrate, in the affairs of the nation, and 
that he woidd soon aspire to the chief magistracy as a reward for his services, 
for his ambition knows no bounds, and he has never acknowledged any other 
principles than those of force and intrigue. History condemns him, and the 
words of Montesquieu, that justice and right are inapplicable to certain individu- 
als; and he is one of them, as the whole world knows. He certainly forgot to 
quote Machiavelli. to give greater force and validity to his antecedents. We 
thank him for his desires and efforts to restore the government, re-establish the 
republic, and consolidate our liberal institutions that have never ceased to exist, 
and require no other consolidation than that of peace, which he is the last man 
in the world to accomplish; the Mexican people, therefore, do not need him for 
any of the purposes for which he proclaims himself competent. Being brought 
up in a revolutionary school ourselves, we know what to expect of him. 

Considering, therefore, that Don Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna wishes to re- 
turn and take an active part in the affairs of the nation, we declare and protest — 

1st. That as Don Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna was the cause and promoter 
of the many civil revolutions and. calamities that Mexico has suffered, and has 
abused the power intrusted to him by the nation, betraying the national interests ; 

2d. That his reappearance on Mexican territory would be an injury to our 
cause, would make it unpopular, and would render the union of those now de- 
fending it impossible ; and 

3d. That if Don Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna returns to Mexico, under any 
pretext whatever, he ought to be tried and sentenced as a traitor, according to 
the laws of the country. 

We, the undersigned, make this protest, under the conviction that Don An- 
tonio Lopez de Santa Anna should not be permitted to return to Mexico, and 
we hope all good Mexicans are of the same opinion, and will give him the wel- 
come he deserves, if he dare return. 

San Juan Bautista, September 7, 1866. 

Ignacio P. Villegas. Domingo Villa. 

Justo Soleto. Antonio T. Villegas. 

Eustaquio Pelaton. Dominico Erantes. 

Juan Barselon. J. E. Sepulveda. 

Citizen Josu Antonio Godov, 

Mexican Consul in San Francisco. 



[Enclosure No. 9. — From the New York Times, June 29, 1866. ] 

The case of the alleged swindle on Santa Anna. — Argument of the motion to 
discharge the defendants from arrest. — Was there an attempt in this city to 
fit out an expedition against Maximilian ? 

SUPREME COURT — SPECIAL TERM, JUNE 28 — BEFORE JUSTICE GROVER. 

Wm. J. Taylor el al. vs. L. Martin Montgomery and A. H. Canedo.— This 
case, some of the particulars of which have been already published, came up 
yesterday on a motion made by the defendants to be discharged from an order 
of arrest. The additional developments appear from the papers read on the 
argument by counsel on either side. Mr. Jerome Buck, for plaintiffs, appeared 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 375 

to oppose the motion, and Mr. P. Y. Cutler for the defendants. The defendants, 
it may be remarked, were, immediately after their arrest in this city, sent to 
Ludlow street jail, being unable to procure the necessary bail. Their counsel 
now makes the motion that they ought to be discharged for the reasons stated 
in the following papers, and from these the public will learn the cause of the 
arrest and the reasons why they are detained. 

Wm. J. Taylor, plaintiff, being sworn, testifies that the cause of this action is 
as follows: Upon several occasions in the months of March and April, 1S66, at 
the city of New York, the said Montgomery and Oanedo deceitfully and falsely 
represented to deponent that they, the said Montgomery and Oanedo, had been 
duly accredited and appointed the agents of one Gen. D. A. L. de Santa Anna, 
then residing at the island of St. Thomas, West Indies, to procure and purchase 
in the United States, for and on behalf of said Santa Anna, a large steamer, &c, 
and to deliver the same to said Santa Anna at said island of St. Thomas; and 
said Montgomery and Canedo further exhibited and gave to deponent a written 
statement (drawn up by themselves) of the authorities and powers conferred on 
them by said Santa Anna, as his agents, which deponent has lost or mislaid, 
and which deponent alleges was in every respect false and deceitful, and offered 
with the intent to deceive this deponent. The said Montgomery and Canedo 
deceitfully represented to deponent that, under the authority and power possessed 
by them as aforesaid, they wished to purchase a steamer belonging to him and 
others, called the Agnes, which they desired should be taken by him to the 
island of St. Thomas, and there delivered to one Phillips, the resident agent of 
said Santa Anna, and that then and there said Santa Anna would pay deponent 
the sum of "one hundred thousand dollars in gold. Deponent wholly relying on 
the false and fraudulent representations made by said Montgomery and Canedo, 
entered into a written agreement with them, the provisions of which are as fol- 
lows : 

"This agreement, made and entered into on the 10th day of April, 1866, in 
the city of New York, by and between William J. Taylor, of Philadelphia, 
United States, managing owner of the steamer Agnes, party of. the first part, 
and Louis M. Montgomery and Andrew H. Canedo, both of the city of New 
York, agents for and in behalf of D. A. L. de Santa Anna, parties of the second 
part. Whereas, for the hereinafter named consideration, the parties of the first 
part have sold, and do hereby sell, the steamer Agnes, of Philadelphia, with all 
of her tackle, furniture, &c, to the said parties of the second part, for the sum 
of $100,000 in gold, payable on her delivery to Gr. W. Phillips, merchant, in 
St. Thomas, for the use and benefit of parties of the second part ; and it is 
agreed by the parties of the second part that they will well and truly pay or 
cause to be paid to the parties of the first part the sum of $100,000 in gold on 
the arrival of said steamer in St. Thomas, or as soon thereafter as the transfer 
can be made; and in case of default of payment, they, the parties of the second 
part, shall well and truly pay, or cause to be paid, to the parties of the first part 
the sum of $20,000 in gold, in St. Thomas, as damages. And it is further 
agreed by the parties of the second part that they will pay or cause to be paid 
to the parties of the first part, for all surplus coal or stores that may remain on 
said steamer at the time of her transfer in St. Thomas, at the market rates in 
St. Thomas. And it is further agreed that the parties of the second part shall, 
in case of the discharge of the crew of said steamer in St. Thomas, pay to the 
parties of the first part the amount lawfully due said crew upon their discharge, 
less the amount due to them upon arrival in St. Thomas." 

That said engagement was duly executed by the parties of the first and 
second parts, and delivered by said parties of the second part to this deponent, 
party of the first part. That in pursuance of said agreement, and relying upon 
the said statements and representations of said Montgomery and Canedo, that 
they were the authorized agents of said Santa Anna to purchase a vessel for 



376 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

him, deponent furnished said steamer Agnes with the necessary officers, crew, 
engineers, provisions, coal, and stores, at great expense, to wit, $15,000, and 
sailed for said island of St. Thomas on 14th April, 1866. That on the 24th of 
April, 1866, the said steamer and deponent arrived at said island, and, in pur- 
suance of the contract aforesaid, made a tender of said steamer to said Phillips 
for said Santa Anna; the said Phillips tendered the same to said Santa Anna, 
who declined receiving said vessel, and denied that said Montgomery and Ca- 
nedo were ever his agents, nor were they authorized by him or by any person 
to purchase for him a vessel or anything else in the United States or elsewhere. 
That thereupon deponent returned with said steamer Agnes to the United States, 
and deponent has since ascertained that this denial of authority is true, and de- 
ponent states that the said Montgomery and Canedo were not, and they knew 
they were not, at any time authorized to act on behalf of said Santa Anna, and 
their representations on that behalf were utterly false, and made by them to de- 
ceive deponent. That said deponent, through the false, deceitful representations 
of said Montgomery and Canedo, was induced to pay out and expend the sum 
of $15,000 in furnishing said ship as aforesaid, and in making said voyage to 
St. Thomas and the return to the United States. The said statements and 
representations of said Montgomery and Canedo deponent has now discovered 
to be, and alleges to be, false in each and every particular, and they were so 
known to be to said Montgomery and Canedo, and were used and held forth by 
them solely to deceive deponent and to induce deponent to enter into the agree- 
ment aforesaid, and to incur the heavy expenditure hereinbefore mentioned. 
That by the fraudulent and deceitful practices of said Montgomery and Canedo 
he has been damaged $20,000, to recover which the action aforesaid is to be 
brought. And deponent finally says that he is informed and believes that said 
Montgomery and Canedo are not residents of this State ; that said Montgomery 
was late an officer in the confederate army and chief of staff of General Lee, 
and that Canedo is a resident of Texas. 

J. H. TAYLOR. 

Affidavits were also made by several other parties, to wit, the defendants, 
Montgomery and Canedo, Solon Dike, Thos. J. Rice, J. W. Robinson, in behalf 
of the motion. 

Mr. Dike testified in substance that he had a conversation with Santa Anna, 
at the island of St. Thomas, in November last ; that Santa Anna then told him 
that he was desirous of returning to Mexico to assist in driving out Maximilian 
and establishing a republic there, but that an order was still in force prohibiting 
him from coming to the United States. If that order could be annulled and he 
be allowed to cross the Rio Grande he could, with the aid of 1,000 Americans, 
drive Maximilian out of the country. He also said that if deponent could 
help him he should be amply remunerated. On Mr. Dike's return to New York 
he communicated with Montgomery, and they agreed to work together in re- 
lation to the matter. Deponent further states that it was fully understood and 
agreed between Santa Anna and himself that he (Dike) should do all he could 
in the matter, and also get others to co-operate with him. Santa Anna delivered 
to him certain proclamations addressed to the Mexicans, which he desired to be 
distributed. 

Andrew H. Canedo, one of the defendants, deposed that on or about the 5th 
of March last he attended a meeting at Mr. Mazaures's residence, No. 101 West 
Twentieth street, and that while there Mr. Montgomery and Mazanres produced 
letters from Santa Anna, which were read and interpreted by Mr. Baiz ; and 
further, that Mazanres represented himself as the commissioner of Santa Anna, 
and had received ample powers to act as such, and that Baiz was in his confi- 
dence and would act for him ; that Mazanres and Baiz expressed their desire to 
purchase a steamer for Santa Anna, for the purpose of bringing him to the 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 377 

United States ; that it was arranged to purchase the steamer with Montgomery, 
the drafts to be drawn on Santa Anna for $100,000, payable in gold. The de- 
ponent called on Mr. Baiz, who stated that he could represent Mr. Mazanres, 
and informed him that an arrangement had been made with a banking-house to 
negotiate said drafts on the commissioner, showing his authority, and that Mr. 
Baiz said he would have the commissioner at his office next day. 

Deponent further saith that a Mr. Billerton assisted him in negotiating the 
drafts, and had also called on Mr. Baiz, and stated that one of the banking firms 
could speak Spanish, and would be pleased to see Mr. Mazanres and examine 
his authority as a commissioner, in strict confidence, and if satisfactory advance 
the money ; that when he (Billerton) stated this to Baiz and Mazanres, they 
replied they did not wish to expose the authority, intimating thereby that the 
said powers were either to violate the neutrality law, or do some other illegal or 
unwarrantable act, which they desired that no other person should see or examine. 

The following affidavit made by General Santa Anna was read by Mr. Buck 
in opposition to the motion to discharge : 

City and County of New York, ss : 

Antonio L. de Santa Anna being duly sworn, says : I am not acquainted with 
the parties to this action. 1 met Canedo on the 24th of April last at St. Thomas. 
I have never authorized Montgomery, Canedo, or anybody else to purchase a 
vessel for me. In the brief correspondence I have had with Montgomery and 
Canedo I never authorized Montgomery or Canedo to do anything for me, but, 
to the contrary, I wrote I never wanted their services ; Montgomery and Canedo 
made offers to me of all sorts of impossible helps, and so foolish and exaggerated 
that they were the dreams of madmen, and I declined them all and peremptorilv. 

A. L. DE SANTA ANNA. 

Sworn to before me this 27th day of June, 1866. 

JOHN McCLUSKY, 
Commissioner of Deeds. 

Mr. Buck also read several other affidavits and some letters, which we have 
not space to print, all tending to show that the defendants had been guilty of 
gross fraud in the purchase of the steamer Agnes, for the sum of $100,000 in 
gold, from the plaintiff, Taylor, on the pretence that they were regularly au- 
thorized agents of Santa Anna, and purchased the vessel for him and at his 
request. 

At the conclusion of the argument all the papers in the case were handed up 
to the court. Decision reserved. 

For plaintiff, Jerome Buck ; for defendants, P. Y. Cutler, esq. 



[Enclosure No. 10.— From the New York Herald, July 17, 1868.] 
SUPERIOR COURT — CHAMBERS — BEFORE JUDGE MCCUNN. 

July 16. — Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna vs. Abraham Baiz and Jacob Baiz. — 
An action was commenced on Saturday last in the superior court of this city, 
by General Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna against Abraham Baiz and Jacob 
Baiz, for the recovery of thirteen thousand dollars, the proceeds of four bills of 
exchange on London, which had been left with A. Baiz & Co., to be sold, and 
the proceeds delivered to the owner of the bills. The firm of A. Baiz & Co., 
consisting of Abraham Baiz and his son, Jacob Baiz, had been highly recom- 
mended to the general as men of integrity and responsibility ; and thus highly 
recommended, the general was importuned by A. Baiz & Co. to allow them to 



378 CONDITION OP AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

sell his bills of exchange. This firm, having made the sale and received thereon 
for the general about thirteen thousand dollars, suggested to him, when they 
were asked for the proceeds, that he leave the money in their hands, as it would 
be extremely unsafe, in view of the many burglaries being committed in the 
city, for him to keep so much money in his house. The general, deeming the 
suggestion an honest one, deferred drawing his money until a few days ago, 
when he sent his son to the house of A. Baiz & Co. to get the money. The 
firm thereupon refused to pa}' over the $13,000, or any part of it, to General 
Santa Anna. On this state of facts, on Saturday last, an action was commenced 
by General Santa Anna, in the superior court of this city, against Abraham 
Baiz and Jacob Baiz, in which action Judge McCunn granted an order of arrest, 
directing that the defendants be arrested and held to bail in the sum of $15,000. 
In pursuance of this order, the sheriff yesterday morning arrested Abraham 
Baiz and his son Jacob, and held them to answer in the above sum. 



[Enclosure No. 11.— From the New York Herald, July 18, J866. ] 

To the Editor of the Herald : 

AYe notice, among the law reports of your morning edition, a statement of 
the arrest of A. Baiz & Son, at the suit of General Santa Anna, springing out 
of certain drafts alleged to be placed in their hands. We suppose they owe 
this publicity to the fact that they have had business dealings with Santa Anna. 
But as the publication is but an ex parte statement, and reflects upon their 
mercantile standing and integrity, contrary to the course usually adopted by 
us not to notice such publications, we beg leave to state that, upon the trial of 
the action, Baiz & Son will show and maintain that General Santa Anna was 
largely indebted to them in an amount exceeding the amount of the drafts men- 
tioned, and which he has recognized as correct, and promised to pay; and after 
crediting the proceeds of the drafts, there still remains a very considerable bal- 
ance due to them. 

BEEBE, DEAN & DONOHUE, 

Attorneys for A. Baiz 8f Son. 

New York, July 17, 1866. 



[Enclosure No. 12. — From the New York Herald, August 28, 1866. J 

SANTA ANNA'S LITIGATIONS SUPREME COURT CHAMBERS — BEFORE JUDGE 

BARNARD. 

An order of arrest against Senor Dario Mazuera. — He is lodged in the Ludlow 
street jail. — Affidavit of General Santa Anna. — Interesting statements.— 
The plot thickening, Sfc. 

Our readers no doubt remember the many accounts that have appeared in 
our columns lately in regard to the adventures of General Don Antonio Lopez 
de Santa Anna, growing out of the numerous suits and counter-suits that have 
been commenced in our courts of law. We are again called upon to chronicle 
another phase in the affair, his honor Judge Barnard having yesterday granted 
an order of arrest, at the suit of General Santa Anna, against his late private 
secretary, Senor Dario Mazuera, founded upon the following affidavit of the 
general : 

Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna, being duly sworn, says that he is the plaintiff 
herein, and resides at No. S West Twenty-eighth street, New York; that the 
defendant is a resident of St. Thomas, West Indies, and is temporarily staying in. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 370 

this city ; that prior to the 12th day of December, 1S65, the defendant applied 
to the plaintiff at St. Thomas for permission to proceed to the United States in 
behalf of the interest of Mexico, as represented by the plaintiff, to confer with 
the government of the United States in reference to certain business connected 
with the interest of Mexico, stating and representing that he was able and 
competent to accomplish the transactions of said business, and did then and 
there importune the plaintiff to give him, said Mazuera. some p:iper writing 
accrediting him as a proper person to whom faith and confidence could be given: 
that on or about the 12th of December. 1S6-5, the plaintiff did give said Ma- 
zuera a paper writing, whereby said Mazuera was permitted by the plaintiff to 
proceed to the United States and confer with the government thereof in relation 
to the business contemplated, bnt when said Mazuera arrived in the United 
States he did not make any effort to confer with the government thereof in 
behalf of the matters set forth in the said instrument given him by the plaintiff, as 
aforesaid, but, on the contrary, in violation of the power and authority conferred 
on him by the plaintiff, and intending to cheat and defraud this plaintiff, and in 
violation of the trust and confidence reposed in him by the plaintiff, he, the 
said Darin Mazuera, and one Abraham Baiz, with the intent to cheat and de- 
fraud the plaintiff, did combine, confederate, and conspire together, at the city 
of New York, to deceive, cheat, and defraud, and did deceive, cheat, and defrand, 
the plaiutiff iu the following manner, viz : On or about the 7th day of April, 
1S66, the said Baiz represented and pretended to be the owner of the steamship 
Georgia, lying at the port of Xew York, and as such pretended owner of said 
steamer, on or about the last day aforesaid, did fraudulently, deceitfully, and 
with the intent and design to cheat and defraud the plaintiff, make a pretended 
sale to him, and the said Dario Mazuera, well knowing that the said Baiz was 
not the owner of said steamship, did pretend to purchase of the said Baiz the 
said steamship Georgia, for and on account of this plaintiff, for the sum of 
?2-50,000 ; whereupon the said Baiz executed and delivered to said Mazuera, 
as the pretended agent of said plaintiff, a bill of sale of said steauishrp, to be 
delivered to the plaintiff at St. Thomas. West Indies ; and the said Mazuera, well 
knowing that Baiz was not the owner of said steamship, accepted from said 
Baiz the said bill of sale, and then and there delivered to said Baiz seventeen 
bills of exchange, to which the said Dario Mazuera fraudulently and without 
authority signed the name of the plaintiff: that said bills of exchange were 
drawn to the order of said Mazuera, and indorsed by him were delivered to said 
Baiz. 

That in and by said pretended bill of sale it was stated, as a covenant of the 
plaintiff, that in case the bills of exchange should not be accepted at sight, and 
should be protested for non-acceptance, the said plaiutiff would pa} T the said Baiz 
the sum of 8100,000 liquidating damages, and the said bills of exchange should 
remain in the hands of said Baiz as collateral security for the payment of said 
$100,000. Deponent further says, that afterwards the said Baiz, with the 
knowledge and consent of the said Mazuera, did freight the said steamship at 
the port of New York, and proceeded to the port of St. Thomas, West Indies, where 
the plaintiff was then temporarily residing, and on their arrival the said Baiz 
called on this plaintiff and informed him of the said sale of the said steamship, 
and at the same time exhibited to the plaintiff the said bills of exchange, and 
desired the plaintiff to accept the same, whereupon the plaintiff informed said 
Baiz that the said Mazuera had no power or authority from the plaintifi to 
negotiate for or purchase the said steamship, or to sign any bills of exchange in 
the name of the plaintiff, and that he. the plaintiff. Mould not accept said 
steamship or ratify or confirm the said bill of sale. 

Deponent farther says that the said Baiz and Mazuera, still combining, con- 
spiring, and confederating together to cheat and defraud this plaintiff, then and 
there stated and represented to the plaintiff that he, (Mazuera,) while in the 



380 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

United States, bad succeeded in obtaining a loan from various parties in tbe 
United States, and from tbe government tbereof, of $30,000,000; tbat tbe same 
was to be increased to $50,000,000, to be used in tbe interest of tbe Mexican 
people, and tbat $30,000,000 was then on deposit in the city of New York, 
ready to be placed at the disposal of the plaintiff, to be used by him and those 
assisting him in behalf of the interests of tbe Mexican people, and at the same 
time exhibited to the plaintiff a letter purporting to have been written by Hon. 
William H. Seward, Secretary of State at Washington, advising the plaintiff to 
come at once to the United States, and that the government thereof was ready, 
willing, and anxious to aid him in his efforts in behalf of the Mexican people, 
and that any assistance required by the plaintiff in tbat behalf would be fur- 
nished him by the government of the United States, and that he should lose no 
time in quitting St. Thomas for the United States for the purpose of imme- 
diately entering tipon his undertaking. 

Deponent further says tbat the said Baiz and Mazuera further represented 
that said steamer had been purchased for the interests of the Mexican people, 
and that the said bills of exchange could be paid from the fund or loan of thirty 
millions then on deposit as aforesaid, and that the plaintiff individually could 
not be responsible or incur any liability by acceptiug tbe said bills, and that if 
plaintiff refused to accept the said bill or ratify the said sale of said steamship, 
that the said Baiz would be put to great expense, loss, and damage, and would 
be pecuniarily ruined; and deponent, believing tbe said representations of the 
said Biaz and Mazuera, and that the said sum of thirty millions was then on 
deposit in the city of New York as aforesaid, and believing the letter exhibited 
as aforesaid to be a true and genuine letter, the plaintiff accepted the said bills 
of exchange and delivered them to tbe said Baiz, conditioned that they should 
be paid from tbe said loan of thirty millions ; that subsequently the said Baiz, 
with the knowledge and assent of the said Mazuera, stated and represented to 
the plaintiff that he (Baiz) had a payment to make at St. Thomas on account 
of the purchase of said steamship of $40,000 in gold, and that he did not have 
the necessary means to meet said payment, and desired the plaintiff to let him 
have the said sum of $40,000 to meet said payment, and that he would return 
tbe same when they arrived at New York ; and believing said statement to be 
true, the plaintiff gave to the said Baiz certain notes made by parties in favor of 
plaintiff, payable in gold, and which Avere perfectly good, amounting in the 
aggregate to the sum of $35,260, which the said Baiz accepted for the purpose 
aforesaid. 

Deponent further says that subsequently tbe said Mazuera assisted in tbe 
freighting of said steamer for New York, and that plaintiff took passage on said 
steamer; that on his arrival, at tbe earnest solicitation of said Baiz, the plaintiff 
went to the house of said Baiz at Elizabethport, New Jersey, and remained there 
for nearly one month; that the said Baiz and Mazuera professed great friendship 
for the plaintiff, and often asserted and reiterated the statements and representa- 
tions hereinbefore mentioned; but that just before the plaintiff left the house of 
said Baiz he ascertained that said steamship did not belong to and was not 
owned by said Baiz, and that he had no power to sell or convey said steamship, 
and that he had no payment to make at St. Thomas of $40,000 ; and that each 
and every statement made by said Baiz as to the purchase of said steamer were 
false and untrue, and were made with the knowledge and consent of said Ma- 
zuera, aud Avere known by tbe said Mazuera to be false and untrue, and were 
made with the intent and design to deceive, cheat, and defraud this plaintiff; 
and that the statements of said Baiz and Mazuera tbat the defendant had ob- 
tained a loan of $30,000,000, and that the same was then on deposit in the city 
of New York, were also false and untrue, and had no foundation in fact, but 
were made with the intent to induce the plaintiff to accept the said bills of ex- 
change for the sum of $250,000 ; that at the time tbe said loan was said to 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 381 

nave been obtained not one shilling bad been obtained or received by tbe de- 
fendant, as he had represented. 

This deponent further says that the said letter exhibited by the defendant, 
puroorting- to have been written by the Hon.Wrn. H. Seward, was not a letter 
of the said Wm. H. Seward at all, but written and concocted by the defendant 
and said Baiz, and that all the representations made by said defendant and Baiz 
were false and untrue, and that said letter was a forgery, and known by said 
defendants to be so. 

Deponent further says that said Baiz and Mazuera, conspiring, combining, 
and confederating together, did charter the said steamship of Messrs. Williams 
& Guion, for the sum of $10,000, to go to the port of St. Thomas, West Indies, 
and that said Baiz freighted said vessel under said charter, and proceeded with 
said vessel, accompanied by said Mazuera, to St. Thomas, where the said Ma- 
zuera falsely and fraudulently reported to various parties, other than the plain- 
tiff, that the said Baiz was the owner of said steamer. 

Deponent further says that said Baiz, from St. Thomas to New York, brought 
on said vessel a valuable freight, and, as the plaintiff is informed and believes, 
received for the freight of said steamship to and from St. Thomas, West Indies, 
upwards of $15,000. 

Deponent further says that the said Baiz admitted to the plaintiff, as did also 
the said Mazuera, that the said Baiz at St. Thomas paid to the captain of said 
steamer Georgia, as charter money and other expenses, the sum of $ 13,000 and 
upwards, and that this sum was realized from a portion of the said notes of 
$35,260 given said Baiz by the plaintiff at St Thomas. 

Deponent further says that when the said Baiz and Mazuera returned to New 
York they had in their possession the said bills of exchange for $250,000 and 
the said notes of $35,260, and being so in possession of said bills and notes, they 
delivered the said steamship to the owners, Messrs. Williams & Guion, at the 
city of New York, and also gave Messrs. Williams & Guion a portion of said 
bills of exchange, amounting to the sum of $80,000 ; and that the said Wil- 
liams & Guion, with a knowledge of the pretended sale of the said Georgia to 
the plaintiff, accepted and received from the said defendant the said bills of 
exchange ; and that the defendant has surrendered to the plaintiff the balance 
of said bills of exchange, amounting to $170,000, but still retains the notes, 
amounting to $35,260; and that Messrs. Williams & Guion admitted to deponent 
that they had possession of said steamship, and were the owners thereof, and 
that they had received the said bills of exchange ; and the plaintiff then re- 
quested that said bills be surrendered to him, which said Williams & Guion 
refused to do, except on condition that the plaintiff would give them his prom- 
issory note at ninety days for the sum of $25,000 and collateral security for 
its payment, which plaintiff was compelled to, and did so ; that all of the repre- 
sentations and statements of the said Mazuera and Baiz were false and untrue, 
and that plaintiff has sustained damages by reason thereof to the extent of at 
least $70,000, and asks that the defendant may be arrested and dealt with 
according to law. 

A. L. DE STA. ANNA. 

Sworn to before me this 25th day of August, 1866. 

ADERED T. ACKERT, Notary Public. 

The affidavit is very voluminous, but above we have given its principal fea- 
tures. Annexed to the affidavit is a supplemental statement by the general in 
regard to the card published in our columns a few days ago, wherein he fully 
exonerated Mr. Mazuera, the general now alleging that said statement was 
obtained from him under a misrepresentation of the facts of the case. 

Mr. Mazuera was last evening arrested by Deputy Sheriff McGonegal, and 
in default of bail in the sum of $80,000, committed to the Ludlow street jail. 



382 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 



THE MONTGOMERY SUIT. 



August 27. — Montgomery vs. Santa Anna. — In this case an order of arrest 
was granted against defendant on application of plaintiff. The particulars of 
this suit have already been published in the Herald. A motion is now made to 
set aside the order of arrest, and the argument in the case has been set down 
for to-morrow at 12 o'clock. 



[Enclosure No. 13.— From the New York Herald, August 29, 1866.] 

SANTA ANNA'S LITIGATIONS — SUPREME COURT — CHAMBERS — BEFORE JUDGE 

BARNARD. 

The Montgomery case. — Another postponement. 

August 28. — Montgomery vs. Santa Anna. — This case was called on at twelve 
o'clock to-day for argument. A motion is now made to vacate the order of 
arrest issued some days since at the instance of the plaintiff against General 
Santa Anna ou the ground that he was a non-resident of the State of New York. 
Montgomery makes a claim against the general for the modest sum of $60,000 
for services rendered as the alleged agent of Santa Anna. The general was re- 
quired to give « bail in the sum of $75,000, Avhich was afterwards reduced to 
$30,000. Mr. H. Daily, counsel for General Santa Anna, now moves to vacate 
the order of arrest on the ground that the general never employed or authorized 
the employment of Montgomery in any manner whatever. The motion came 
on for hearing several days ago ; but, ou the application of Mr. Peter T. Cutler, 
counsel for Montgomery, it has been postponed from time to time until yester- 
day, when it came up again for argument. Mr. Cutler answered that he was 
not ready to proceed, and asked the court to allow the motion to stand over. 
Mr. Daily strenuously opposed the application for a further postponement of 
the matter, on the ground that General Santa Anna was very anxious to have 
the questions presented by this action reviewed by the court, and that he had in 
every instance been ready and anxious to proceed, but had invariably been met 
by a motion to postpone by the counsel for plaintiff. 

The court finally set the matter down for hearing at ten o'clock on Saturday 
next. 

STATEMENT FROM MAZUERA. 

General Don Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna has published the following card : 
"The undersigned would inform the public that Don Dario Mazuera has not 
held, nor does he now hold, any authority to engage in any way whatever the 
personal responsibility of the undersigned in any contract, note, or engagement 
whatsoever. Having been informed that said Don Dario Mazuera is attempting 
(in virtue of a commission intrusted to him for a purpose very distinct from that 
of making private contracts) to injure the undersigned, notice is hereby given 
that not only the invalidity of said acts will be maintained, but the undersigned 
will likewise assert his rights and have the full rigor of the laws extended to 
those who seek to injure and annoy him in so unwarrantable a manner. 

"A. L. DE SANTA ANNA." 

Much against my will I am forced to contradict — though I shall do so in a 
clear and succinct manner — the above assertions of General Santa Anna, by 
publishing herewith the full powers which he conferred on me at St. Thomas, 
under date of December 12, last year. I have, moreover, in my possession a 
letter in the same gentleman's own handwriting, which was delivered to me only 
a few hours before my departure from that island, and which treats of this same 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 383 

subject, and coufirms the confidence which was reposed in me. I will not pub- 
lish said letter because of its confidential and private character. If I have 
committed grave errors I have frankly avowed them, without attempting- to 
escape the responsibility that fell upon me by reason of such errors ; nor did I 
seek to cloak myself with a veil of hypocrisy, as has been done by others whom 
I may justly stigmatize as corrupt and depraved. 

DARIO MAZUERA. 
New York, August 24, 1866. 



'■'■Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna, general of division in the Mexican army, 8pc.: 

" By these presents I give full powers to Colonel Don Dario Mazuera, (in 
whose talents and good character I have the greatest confidence,) in order that 
he may be enabled to develop all my ideas, thoughts, and desires before the 
government of the United States of America, concerning the aid of which I 
stand in need in order to be able to liberate my country from the yoke of her 
oppressors. The critical position in which the Mexican nation is at present 
placed demands that all her sons make extraordinary efforts and great sacrifices. 
Although exiled from my native soil through French tyranny, still I am anxious 
to do all in my power in order to prove to my fellow-countrymen that their mis- 
fortunes are not unheeded by me. Colonel Mazuera will understand now to set 
forth, with his habitual discretion, my reasons for having recourse to the gov- 
ernment at Washington in order to obtain the aid which only that government 
can readily afford. The said Colonel Mazuera is fully authorized to make 
agreement as to the guarantees requisite in order to secure the payment of what- 
ever costs and expenses may be incurred for this aid, which I solicit with the 
most lively earnestness and ardor. The Mexican nation will in due time, 
through its legal organs, recognize this debt, and will pay it with religious ex- 
actitude, while its gratitude will be everlasting for the service thus rendered. 
But if, unfortunately, the government of the United States should refuse, from 
any motive whatever, to lend me its protection, in such case Colonel Mazuera 
shall endeavor to make an arrangement with some portion of the mercantile 
community of said nation for the recruiting of two or three thousand armed 
men, (after having first obtained permission from the local authorities,) as 
well as for the purchase of the vessels necessary to transport such a body of 
men to a point on the Mexican coast which I shall indicate in due time. Colonel 
Mazuera may show these instructions in such cases as he may find it advan- 
tageous to do so, seeing that he is my representative — my own person, in fact, 
in this affair with which he is intrusted. However, he is to bear in mind that 
he must bestow upon any Mexican soldiers that may be recruited the position 
for which they may be respectively fitted ; for it would be very pleasing to me 
should such true patriots be brought to my ranks by extending to them any 
assistance that may be possible. I confide to Colonel Mazuera's discretion the 
subject of engaging in our favor some of the leading organs of the press, in 
order to secure the publication of suitable articles in favor of our enterprise, 
even though for this purpose it should become necessary to make pecuniary 
sacrifices. It shall be his duty to visit General Grant, in whose hands he will 
place the letter which he has received for that general, and shall endeavor to 
convince him of the advantage it would be to all of us who profess republican 
principles were he to contribute his powerful influence towards securing the 
patriotic object which I have in view. As Colonel Mazuera is sufficiently well 
informed, and understands thoroughly the important charge with which he is 
intrusted, I leave to his own deliberation the arrangement of many details 
which he will understand how to work out according as occasions present 
themselves, for I am inspired with this much confidence in the ability, honor, 



384 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

loyalty, and Americanism of said Sefior Mazuera. For the reasons set forth 
above, I recognize, approve, and confirm as valid, from this moment, the acts 
which Sefior Mazuera may perform while in the discharge of this mission, in 
order to secure the successful issue of the same. 

" In testimony whereof I set my hand to these presents. 

" Done at the island of St. Thomas this 12th day of December, 1865. 

"A. L. DE SANTA ANNA." 



[Enclosure No. 14. — From the New York Herald, September 2, 1866.] 

MORE OF SANTA ANNA'S LITIGATIONS. — SUPREME COURT — CHAMBERS — BE- 
FORE JUDGE BARNARD. 

The Montgomery case. — Motion to vacate an order of arrest against Santa 

Anna. 

September 1. — L. M. Montgomery vs. A. L. de Santa Anna. — Plaintiff in this 
case claims to have acted as the agent of General Santa Anna in the organiza- 
tion of an expedition to convert the Mexican empire and establish a republic 
instead. The authority for this agency he alleges to have received through 
Sefior Dario Mazuera and Mr. Solon Dike, who claim to have been the directly 
accredited agents of Santa Anna for the same purposes. Mazuera is at present 
confined in the Ludlow street jail, under a suit instituted against him by the 
general for some $80,000. 

The material points in the affidavits and the statements on both sides have 
already been published in the Herald. 

In the present suit Montgomery seeks to get $25,000 for services rendered, 
and under this claim procured an order of arrest against the general, in which 
the latter was held to bail in the sum of $30,000. A motion to vacate this order 
of arrest was made yesterday. 

Mr. Peter T. Cutler appeared for plaintiff, and Mr. H. Daily for defendant. 

Mr. Cutler opened the argument, and alluded to the character of the affidavits 
on the other side. The main question to be determined was upon the agency. 
Montgomery had produced evidence to show his agency in the matter, which 
facts were merely denied by Santa Anna, without producing contradictory 
evidence on each material point. 

Judge Barnard. There is sufficient in the affidavits to issue an order of arrest. 

Mr. Cutler contended that there was r.of? sufficient in the affidavits of defend- 
ant to quash the order of arrest. Defendant had not furnished evidence denying 
any of plaintiff's assertions. There was nothing in the affidavits of his oppo- 
nents which would authorize him to make a motion to discharge from arrest. 

The court having decided to hear the case at length, Mr. Daily proceeded to 
read his affidavits in support of the motion to vacate the order of arrest. He 
read the affidavit of General Santa Anna, denying that he had given any au- 
thority whatever to Montgomery to act as his agent. 

Judge Barnard. Does General Santa Anna speak the English language 1 

Mr. Daily. He does not. 

Judge Barnard. Who translated these affidavits for him ? 

Mr. Daily gave the name of the translator. The gentleman then went on with 
his reading. The affidavit of Mazuera alleged that he had never at any time 
employed Montgomery under the authority given by Santa Anna to deponent. 
Several other affidavits were read, when Mr. Cutler followed in behalf of Mont- 
gomery. 

Judge Barnard took all the papers in the case and reserved his decision. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 385 

[Enclosure No. 15. — From the New York Times, September 5, 1866.] 
STILL ANOTHER SUIT SANTA ANNA'S FATHER IN-LAW ARRESTED. 

An order of arrest was granted yesterday by Judge Barnard, of the supreme 
court, for the apprehension, in a civil suit, of Luis G. de Vidal y Rivas, father- 
in-law of General Santa Anna. The plaintiff in the action is Einelia Cuppia, 
owner of a boarding-house in East Forty-first street, this city, who alleges in 
her affidavits, on which the order of arrest was issued, that defendant, Rivas, is 
indebted to her in the sum of $355 50, the balance of a board bill. It was 
furthermore stated that General Santa Anna and the defendant were about 
leaving this country for Mexico, and that the latter would take with him all his 
goods and effects ; that there was great danger that plaintiff would lose the 
amount of her claim against him unless the court interfered and granted an order 
of arrest, holding him to bail in a sum sufficient to fully meet the demand. 



No. 119. 
Mr. Seward to Mr. Roviero. 

Department of State, 

Washington, October 9, 1866. 
Sir : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication 
of the 29th ultimo, containing some correspondence connected with the offer 
of Don Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna of his services to your government, 

I avail myself of this opportunity to renew to you the assurances of my most 
distinguished consideration. 



Senor Don M Romero, Sfc., fyc., fyr. 



WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 



No. 120. 
Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward. 

[Translation.] 

Mexican Legation in the United States of America, 

Washington, November 16, 1S66. 

Mr. Secretary : In reference to the communication which I addressed to 
your department on the 29th of September last, relating to Don Antonio Lopez 
de Santa Anna, I have the honor to transmit to you this day a number of the 
official paper of the Mexican government, of the 22d of October last, contain- 
ing various documents on the same subject, and among them a communication 
addressed to me by Senor Lerdo de Tejada, minister of foreign affairs of the 
Mexican government, from Chihuahua, the 19th of October last, (No. 476,) 
approving the terms of the answer I gave to Senor Santa Anna on the 20th 
September, of which I sent you a copy with my note of the 29th September,, 
before mentioned. 

I take advantage of this occasion to renew to you, Mr. Secretary, the assurances 
of my most distinguished consideration. 

M. ROMERO. 

Hon. William H. Seward, $c, Sfc., fyc. 
25 MEX. 



386 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

[Enclosure No. 1.] 

No. 627.] ^Mexican Legation in the United States of Amkrica, 

Washington, September 20, 1866. 

I have the honor to send you a copy of the reply I made this day to the let- 
ter which Don Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna addressed to me on the 5th instant, 
and of which I sent you a copy with my communication, No. 623, of yesterday. 
I informed Seiior Santa Anna in my answer that my discussion with him was 
hereby closed on my part — a discussion he had provoked — and that in future I 
would answer no further communication from him on the same subject. 

In regard to the imputations cast on you, I did not think proper to answer 
them, but leave them to you to do it if you choose. 

I hereby repeat to you the assurances of my most distinguished consideration. 

M. ROMFAlO. 

Citizen Minister of Foreign Affairs, Chihuahua. 



[Enclosure No. 2.] 

No. 476.] Department of Foreign Affairs and Government, 

Chihuahua, October 19, 1866. 
The citizen President of the republic has considered your notes numbered 
■623 and 627, dated the 19th and 20th September last, with which you sent me 
the copy of a letter that Don Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna wrote to you, and 
a copy of your answer to him, in regard to the resolution of the government 
refusing to accept the offer of his services. As you have given a sufficient 
answer to the inexact conceptions in the letter of Mr. Santa Anna, it is useless 
for me to trouble myself about them, in what refers to me and the charges I 
made in my communication of the 6th July. Moreover, those charges are re- 
corded in the history of the misfortunes of the republic, and are corroborated by 
facts so generally known that it is idle to dispute them. 
Accept the protests of my attentive consideration. 

LERDO DE TEJADA. 
Citizen Matias Romero, 

Envoy Extraordinary and Minister Plenipotentiary 

of the Mexican Ptepublic in Washington, D. C. 



No. 121. 

Senor de Sania Anna to the President.- 

[Translation.] 

St. Thomas, December 12, 1865. 
Sir : Under date of 1 9th October last, I had the honor to commission Mr. 
Lisander Lamada to place in your hands a communication, sanctioned by my 
signature, setting forth my intentions in respect of Mexico, and soliciting some 
aid from your Excellency as a basis to commence the work of redeeming my 
country from the yoke which oppresses it. 

And now leaving Mr. Lamada in his good repute, I permit myself to commis- 
sion in his place Colonel Dario Mazuera, meriting my entire confidence, that he 
may continue the work until the happy result of the undertaking I meditate is 
achieved, which I shall carry to a fortunate conclusion with the aid which your 
• Excellency may deem fit to place at my disposal. All has been already said in 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 387 

regard of the clanger which threatens republican America in consenting to the 
existence in her bosom of a throne of European origiu, imposed by force and sus- 
tained by bayonets. 

For this reason I have sought to avoid any preamble, and I enter fully into 
the question. 

The Monroe doctrine, which has been the laughing-stock and scoff of crowned 
heads during the great domestic strife in the great republic, is now the night- 
mare of the very princes who believed it to be in the abyss of anarchy, over- 
thrown happily by the government of the Union ; and I, who venerate those 
principles, I, the founder of the Mexican republic, am ready to shed the last 
drop of my blood in avenging its wrongs, in a holocaust to its honor, independ- 
ence, and liberty. 

Will the heirs of Washington suffer these desires of my heart to be without 
fruit, 'by refusing me the aid which I implore with all the energy of my soul 1 
I dare not believe it ! 

I speak to your Excellency in the name of unhappy Mexico, pledging 
solemnly her national honor for the fulfilment of the engagements which may 
take place, in consequenc of the aid with which your Excellency's government 
may favor me. 

Mr. Mazuera will explain to you, confidentially, the class of resources I ask 
for, and all that he may bargain with your Excellency, in accordance with the 
contents of this communication, and of the instructions I have placed in his 
hands, will be recognized and approved by me, in the name of the Mexican 
republic. 

With sentiments of the highest consideration, 1 have the honor to subscribe 
myself your most respectful and assured servant, 

A. L. DE STA. ANXA. 

His Excellency the President 

of the United States of America. 



[Translation."] 

St. Thomas, December 12, 1865. 

Sir : Leaving in his good repute Mr. Lisander Lamada, bearer of the com- 
munication which, under date of 19th October last, I had the honor to address 
to you, I have thought it advisable to commission for the same affair, and with 
more ample powers, Colonel Dario Mazuera, that he may place in the hands of 
his Excellency the President of the Union a document sanctioned by my sig- 
nature, referring to the resolution I have formed to liberate Mexico from foreign 
domination. Deign, sir, to receive Mr. Mazuera, a person who has my whole 
confidence, with good will, and give entire faith and credit to all he may say in 
my name, and may bargain with your government according to the tenor of the 
instruc'ions which I have p'aced in his hands. I hope, at the same time, that 
you will use all your influence in the cabinet to the end that it may lend me 
the aid which I solicit. 

Under the protection of the Almighty, and that I may receive from the gov- 
ernment of the United States, I think that very shortly the flag of the republic 
will be hoisted in all the cities and villages of my beloved country. She will 
never forget, in the day of triumph, all she will owe to her glorious sister, and 
Avili return, with increase, the benefits which may be dispensed to her. 

I reiterate to you the expression of high consideration and sincere esteem with 
which I have the honor to subscribe myself, your faithful and obedient servant, 

A. L. DE STA. ANNA. 



388 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

No. 122. 

Senor de Santa Anna to Mr. Scivard. 
[Translation.] 

Elizabethport, May 21, 1866. 

Sir : Upon arriving in the United States of America, accomplishing one of 
■ my most constant desires, it is very pleasant to me to fulfil the first of my du- 
ties by presenting, in my character of Mexican citizen, the homage of my pro- 
found respect to the government of this great and happy nation, and the ex- 
pression of my particular sympathy towards your Excellency in person, and 
through your medium to the President of the republic. 

Not being able at present, as was my purpose, to go and do this personally, I 
have commissioned, that they may do so as representing me, my friends Don 
Abraham Baiz and Colonel Don Dario Mazuera. They will present this letter 
to your excellency, and be pleased, your excellency, to accept their expressions 
as my own. 

The object of my coming is to place myself in the way of discharging my duty 
as a Mexican general — to fight against the foreign and despotic government 
which at this day rules over the capital of my country, and to reinstall in that 
place the constitutional republican government, by offering for this purpose 
my services to the eminent patriot Senor Juarez, who is now at its head, and 
by placing myself under his orders. I consecrated to my country the better 
part of my life; it has heaped upon me favors and distinctions, aud I anxiously 
desire. that my last service may be to fight once more for its independence, and 
to re-establish the republic which I first proclaimed in 1822; to set the beneficial 
example of the obedient soldier and disinterested citizen; to reconcile parties for 
the sake of the whole nation, and to die withdrawn from public affairs and be- 
loved by all my fellow-citizens. Such is now my ambition. I appeal most 
pressingly to the sympathies of the government of your excellency in behalf of 
that just cause, asking that it may favor it with its powerful aid, and I hope my 
conduct may be applauded by your excellency. 

In the same sense I write to-day to Mr. Romero, our zealous and patriotic 
representative. 

I have the honor to offer to your excellency the assurance of my highest con- 
sideration and personal esteem. 

A. L. DE STA. ANNA. 

His Excellency William H. Seward, §c., 

Washington. 



No. 123. 

Senor Mazuera to Mr. Frederick W. Seward. 
[Translation.] 

Washington, May 26, 1866. 
Dear Sir : Yesterday afternoon we gave Mr. Chew the letter from General 
Santa Anna to Mr. Seward, and as to-day we have been absent from the hotel 
we don't know whether Mr. Chew has come to let us know when we shall pre 
sent it to Mr. Seward, if there is no objection. 

Pray be pleased to let us know what has been your father's decision. 
Your very obedient servant, 

DARIO MAZUERA. 
1 Frederick Seward, Esq. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IX MEXICO. 389 



[Memorandum. ] 

The Secretary will for the present reserve himself in regard to the communi 
cation of General Santa Anna. He recognizes, however, the personal kindnes 
of the general. After a time Mr. Seward may recur to the subject. 



[Memorandum. ] 

Colonel Mazuera was informed by me verbally of the foregoing, and he re- 
plied that he would have been glad to pay a visit of courtesy to the Preside ut 
and the Secretary of State. 

R. S. CHEW. 

May 26, 1SG6. 



No. 124. 
Senor de Santa Anna to Mr. Seward. 

New York, June £6, 1866. 

His excellency honorable William H. Seward will please receive Captain H. 
S. Eytiug as an envoy on most important business of mutual interests to the two 
republics, the United States and Mexico. 

Captain H. S. Eytiug is accredited with full powers to act as if I were pres- 
ent, and I hereby confirm all treaties made by him for myself. 

I trust the honorable Secretary of State will discover in the proposals of my 
envoy cause of great interest and advantage to the United States, and trusting 
they may meet with favorable attention, I ask for my envoy and the propositions 
from myself, through him, the heartiest protection. 

With sentiments of my most distinguished regard, I am faithfully yours 
fraternally, 

A. L. DE STA. ANNA. 



No. 125. 

Senor de Santa Anna to Mr. Seward. 

New York, August 10, 1866. 

Dear Sir : The political crisis in Mexico has arrived at a climax, and I can 
no longer remain inactive, and not endeavor to contribute towards the salvation 
of my country. 

While Juarez, Ortega, and the chiefs of various bands are disputing among 
themselves the right to govern, my unfortunate country is rapidly declining, and 
from advices lately received, it is certain that Maximilian is contemplating leaving 
Mexico, in which event the country will most assuredly be plunged into anarchy 
more terrible than has yet been experienced. 

From this destiny I wish to save my country, and assist in the expulsion of 
the last foreign bayonet ; and more than all, I am desirous of securing to Mexico 
peace, and to protect my countrymen as well as foreigners, and give them an 
opportunity to select the man by whom they wish to be governed. 

Your excellency, while at St. Thomas, encouraged me in my enterprise, and 
I again repeat that the moment has arrived when it is necessary to act, and all I 
now require is your support. To this end I have charged Mr. J. N. Lake, of 



390 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

this city, to hand you this letter, he being a confidential medium through whom 
to convey my ideas to you, and give you all necessary explanations, and who 
will have full power and authority from me, duly executed, to negotiate and 
transact any and all business relative to this matter. 

Upon your assistance I rely in this undertaking, when the interests of a sister 
republic are at stake, and when the time has arrived to strike the decisive blow 
for the expulsion of foreign intruders and the tyrannical domination of France. 

Should we now succeed in our endeavors, and once more see Mexico free and 
mv countrymen reinstate me in the highest position within their gift, it would 
afford me the greatest pleasure to reciprocate all your kindness, and show my 
gratitude to your government with a liberal hand. 

Should your excellency desire a personal interview with me, I shall be wil- 
ling to undertake the journey, preserving, of course, all possible privacy during 
the same. 

I have the honor to be your excellency's obedient servant, 

A. L. DE STA. ANNA. 

His Excellency William H. Seward, 

Secretary of State, Washington, D. C. 



No. 126. 
Mr. Sczvard to Se/ior de Santa Anna. 

Department of State, 

Washington, August 16, 1866. 

The Secretary of State has had the honor to receive from General de Santa 
Anna, formerly President of Mexico, a communication in which he states that 
he wishes to visit Washington, and that he would be pleased to know if he will 
be received as a private gentleman by the Secretary of State. 

The distinguished gentleman is hereby informed that insomuch as his attitude 
towards the republican government of Mexico, with which the United States 
maintain diplomatic intercourse, is pronounced by the President of Mexico to be 
unfriendly towards the government of the republic, a reception of tbe general in 
any character, at the present time, by the Secretary of State, would be incom- 
patible with the settled practice and habits of the executive department of the 
United States. 

WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 

Don Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna, Neiv York. 



No. 127. 

Don Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna, jr., to Mr. Seicard. 

New York, November 7, 1866. 
Mv Dear Sir : I am the nephew of Santa Anna, the Mexican general, and 
as his only relative now near him, am bound in all duty and conscience to see 
that he suffers no harm from designing persons. I have sufficient grounds to 
make me believe that the general is not faithfully served, and that in consequence 
of trusting to representations urged upon him, he may lose not only his reputa- 
tion and his fortune, but even more — his life, in a mistaken enterprise. I, there- 
fore, am driven to take this liberty of addressing myself to you ; and I beg you, 
not as minister of state, but upon your generous instincts as a man ready to aid 
a fellow-man, to tell me (if it may be done without detriment to the public in- 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 391 

terests) whether the United States government is treating with my uncle, the 
general, iu reference to Mexico. The general believes, and is acting under the 
belief, that such a treaty exists between himself and the government, but I do 
not believe that he, in person, has' ever met an accredited agent of the govern- 
ment ; and therefore it is that I pray you for such an answer to this my respectful 
inquiry as may enable me to disabuse his mind and save him from dangers to 
which his present ill-advised course nmst expose him. 

I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

ANTONIO LOPEZ DE SANTA ANNA, Jr. 
Hon. William H. Seward. 

I have requested an American gentleman to write this letter, at my dictation, 
because of my not being familiar with the language ; and I add this note, that 
a letter addressed to Mr. Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna, jr., at New York post 
office, will reach me. 

ANTONIO LOPEZ DE SANTA ANNA, Jr. 



No. 128. 
Mr. Seward to Don Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna, jr. 

Department of State, 

Washington, November 8, 1866. 
Sir : I have received your letter of yesterday, representing yourself to be 
the nephew of General Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna, formerly President of 
the Mexican republic ; that you have reason to believe that the government is 
not faithfully served, but that, owing to improper influences, he may lose his 
reputation, his fortune, and even his life, in a mistaken enterprise. You then 
ask me if this government is treating with the general upon the subject of Mexico. 
In reply I have to inform you that this government has not recognized any 
other Mexican authority, or held correspondence or entered into negotiations, 
with any other, than that of President Don Benito Juarez. 
I am, sir, your obedient servant, 

WILLIAM H SEWARD. 
Antonio Lopez ue Santa Anna, Jr., New York. 



No. 129. 



Mr. Seward to Mr. Courtney. 

Department of State, 

Washington, November 8, 1S66. 
Sir : I enclose the original of a letter addressed to me by a person signing 
himself Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna, and, as you will see, claiming to be a 
nephew of the general of that name. My reply to the same is also enclosed. 
It is desired that you should ascertain whether or not there is such a person as 
the writer of the letter. If there should be, the auswer may be posted. If 
there should not be any such person, I will thank you to return the letter and 
the reply to this department. 

I am, sir, your obedient servant, 

WILLIAM II. SEWAFvD. 
Samuel G. Courtney, Esq., 

Attorney of the United States for the Southern District of Neiv York. 



392 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

No. 130. 

Mr. Courtney to Mr. Seward. 

Office of the District Attorney of the United States 
for the Southern District of New York, 

New York, November 14, 1866. 
Sir : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt, on the 11th instant, of 
your favor of the 8th instant, respecting the enclosures, &c, of a letter to he 
posted to Don Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna, jr. 

After making diligent inquiry I ascertained there is such a person as mentioned 
in your letter, and he is represented to be the nephew of Don Antonio Lopez de 
Santa Anna. I have, in accordance with your instructions, deposited in the 
post office of New York the letter you enclosed, directed " Senor Don Antonio 
Lopez de Santa Anna, jr., New York." I enclose herewith the documents 
mailed to me, excepting the letter above referred to. 

I have the honor to be, sir, your obedient servant, 

SAMUEL G. COURTNEY, 

United States Attorney. 
Hon. W. H. Seward, 

Secretary of State. 



No. 131. 

Mr. Seward to Seizor de Santa Anna. 

Department of State, 

Washington, December 8, 1866. 

Sir : I am directed by the President of the United States to acknowledge the 
receipt by him of the letter of the 30th of November last, which letter you de- 
scribed as unofficial and private. The letter concerns the republic of Mexico, 
and affects the relations between that republic and the United States. The 
practice of the government requires that executive correspondence involving 
foreign affairs shall be conducted on behalf of the government in the customary 
diplomatic manner by recognized and responsible official agents, and that it shall 
be always registered and recorded for national information and uses. It is 
equally a practice of the government to hold correspondence in regard to the 
affairs of a friendly foreign republic exclusively with the government of that 
republic which is recognized by the United States, and never with persons whom 
such foreign government pronounces to be hostile. 'Under these circumstances 
you will perceive that the correspondence which you have opened cannot be 
continued. 

I have the honor to be, sir, your obedient servant, 

WILLIAM. H. SEWARD. 

Don Antonio Lopez De Santa Anna, 

New Brighton, Staten Island, New York. 



No. §. 

GENERAL ORTEGA'S CASE. 

List of papers. 



132. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward, (with nine enclosures) Oct. 31, 1S66. 

133. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero Nov. 13, 1866. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 



393 



134. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward, (with seven enclosures) Dec. 8, 1866 

135. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero Dec. 17, 1866. 

136. Mr. Stanton to Mr. Seward, (with six enclosures) = Dec. 8, 1S66. 



No. 132. 



Mr. Romero to Mr. Seivard. 

[Translation.] 

Mexican Legation in the United States of America, 

Washington, October 31, 1866. 

Mr. Secretary : Learning by the papers of this country that General Jesus 
Gonzalez Ortega is in New Orleans, on his way to Mexico, where he is going, 
as he says himself, to excite an insurrection in his own favor, to usurp the pub- 
lic power, and styles himself "constitutional President of the Mexican repub- 
lic" in communications addressed to the United States military authorities in 
that city, I think proper to transmit to you, for the information of the govern- 
ment of the United States, various documents, some from General Ortega him- 
self, showing the specious arguments he makes use of to prove he has a right 
to style himself President of Mexico. 

I am pleased to accept the occasion to repeat to you, Mr. Secretary, the 
assurances of my most distinguished consideration. 

M. ROMERO. 

Hon. William H. Seward, fyc, fyc, Sfc 



Index of documents sent by the Mexican legation in Washington to the Depart- 
ment of State of the United States, with the note of this date, relative to the 
conduct of Don Jesus Gonzalez de Ortega. 



No. 



Date. 



Contents. 



1 


1865. 
Dec. 26 


2 


1866. 
April 30 


3 


Mar. 10 


4 


April 4 


5 


June 30 


6 


June 5 


7 


Sept. 14 


8 


Sept. 22 



First pamphlet published in New York by Don Jesus Gonzalez Ortega, 
containing his protest against the decrees of the 8th of November last, 
(December 21,) and his address to the nation on that subject, (Decem- 
ber 26.) 

Circular of the department of foreign relations and government of the 
republic of Mexico in reply to tbe foregoing protest and address. 

Second pamphlet published in New York by Don Jesus Gonzalez Ortega, 
containing- letters of the nine persons who are disposed to aid him in the 
effort to provoke sedition in Mexico. 

Answer to the foregoing pamphlet containing replies to Don Jesus Gon- 
zalez Ortega, by Mexicans residing in the United States to whom be 
asked their opinion about the expediency of the decrees of the 8th of 
November, 1865. 

Another replication to Don J. G. Ortega's pamphlets, containing the 
opinion of several Mexicans now in armed defence of their country, in 
favor of the decrees of the 8th of November last. 

Reply of the official paper of the Mexican republic to Don Jesus Gonzalez 
Ortega's second pamphlet. 

Article from the official paper of the Mexican republic, containing various 
letters intercepted from Don Jesus G. Ortega and Don Guillermo Prieto. 

Article from the official paper containing documents on the same subject. 



"Washington, October 31, 18G6. 



IGNO. MAKISCAL, Secretary. 



394 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

[Enclosure No. 1.] 

DECREES OF BENITO JUAREZ. 

MINISTRY OF EXTERNAL RELATIONS AND GOVERNMENT — DEPARTMENT OF 
GOVERNMENT — SECTION FIRST. 

The citizen President of the republic has seen fit, to issue the following decree : 

Benito Juarez, constitutional President of the United States of Mexico, to the 
inhabitants thereof : 

Be it known, that in exercise of the plenary powers conferred upon rne by 
the national congress, through its decrees of December II, 1861, of Slay 3 and 
of October 27, 1S63; and whereas, 

Firstly. In articles 78, 79, 80, and 82 of the federal constitution, treating of 
the period of the functions of the President of the republic, and of the manner 
of his substitution, provision has been made for a new election of a President, 
but which, in fact, has not been verified, inasmuch as said provision did not 
anticipate existence of a state of war, such as the present ; and, moreover, as the 
enemy at the present moment occupies a great portion of the national territory, 
it is impossible for a general election to be constitutionally held at the ordinary 
periods. 

Secondly. That in those articles of the constitution providing for a substitute 
for the President of the republic in the event of a vacancy, it was provided to 
confide the executive power of the presidency to the president of the supreme 
court of justice, to act in the only case foreseen, during the interim, until a new 
election could be had according to the constitution. 

Thirdly. Inasmuch as it is impossible for an election to be held on account of 
the war, and as the president of the supreme court, were he to enter upon 
exercise of the functions of the executive office, would do so for an indefinite 
period of time, it becomes necessary to extend his powers beyond the limit pre- 
scribed by a literal construction of the constitution. 

Fourthly. That by the supreme law of necessity for the conservation of the 
government, the prolongation of the term of office of the President and of his 
substitute would be more conformable to the spirit of the constitution, inasmuch 
as it would avoid possibility of the government being without a head, or the 
creation of rival functionaries, operating one in the absence of the other; and, 
moreover, because conformably to the popular vote the President of the republic 
was elected, primarily and directly, to exercise the functions of the executive, 
while the president of the supreme court was elected, primarily and directly, to 
exercise judicial functions, those of the executive being intrusted to him, second- 
arily and ad interim, in the case of absolute necessity. 

Fifthly. And considering that the present case is not provided for in the con- 
stitution, and the interpretation of the provisions and spirit of the constitution 
belongs exclusively to the legislative power, and that the law of December 11, 
1861, confirmed by repeated votes of confidence by the national congress, has 
invested the President with power not subjected to ordinary constitutional rules, 
by which he possesses plenary power to do and perform all acts which he may 
judge proper during existing circumstances, unrestricted save as to the salvation 
of the independence and integrity of the national territory, of the form of gov- 
ernment established by the constitution, and of the principles and laws of reform — 

It has pleased me to decree as follows : 

Article I. In the present condition of the war, it becomes necessary to extend, 
and are hereby extended, the functions of the President of the republic beyond 
the time ordinarily limited by the constitution, until such a period at which the 
executive government can be turned over to a President duly elected at an elec- 
tion, which shall be held whenever the condition of the war shall admit of its 
being held constitutionally. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 395 

Art. II. For a like reason it becomes necessary to extend, and are hereby ex- 
tended, the functions of the person who holds the position of president of the 
supreme court of justice, beyond the time ordinarily limited by the constitution, 
in order that, should a vacancy occur in the presidency of the republic, he may 
be enabled to fill it as substitute. 

For all of which I order this to be printed, published, aud circulated, that 
force be given the same. 

Given at El Paso del Norte this eighth day of November, in the year 1865. 

BENITO JUAEEZ. 

The Citizen Sebastian Lekdo dr Tejada. 



MINISTRY OF EXTERNAL RELATIONS AND GOVERNMENT — DEPARTMENT OP 
GOVERNMENT — SECTION FIRST. 

The citizen President of the republic has seen fit to issue the following decree : 

Benito Juarez, constitutional President of the United States of Mexico, to 
the inhabitants thereof: 

Be it known, that in exercise of the plenary powers conferred upon me by the 
national congress, through its decrees of December 11, 1S61, of May 3, and 
of October 27, 1862, and of May 27, 1S63 ; and whereas, 

Firstly. The citizen General Jesus G. Ortega thought proper, in July of the 
year 1863, to assume the office of governor of the State of Zacatecas, and aban- 
doned in San Luis Potosi the office of constitutional president of the supreme 
court of justice. 

Secondly. For this reason, following the precedent of congress, which, owing 
to the vacancy in the constitutional presidency of the court, had created pro- 
visionally a president of the court, the government at the city of Chihuahua, under 
date of November 30, 1864, declared that it was necessary that the citizen General 
Ortega should continue in his capacity as president of the supreme court of justice. 

Thirdly. The object literally expressed in that resolution was to avoid pos- 
sibility of the government being without a head, and gave to the citizen General 
Ortega a definite and recognized title, so that in the case of a vacancy in the 
presidency of the republic, he could enter upon its duties as substitute. 

Fourthly. Not being contrary to this motive, as he could fulfil his duties in 
any part of the republic, government conceded to General Ortega on the 30th 
of December, 1864, a license, which he pi-ayed for on the 28th, to proceed and 
bear arms in the cause of independence within the interior of the republic, with 
the privilege expressed in the license, according to his solicitation, as well of going 
direct through Mexican territory as of passing in transitu through a foreign land. 

Fifthly. General Ortega departed accordingly, and, nevertheless, despite the 
express tenor of his license, and in the place of passing in transitu, has resided 
permanently in a foreign country, without license or permission so to do, and in 
this wise abandoned his office of president of the supreme court of justice, under 
the grave circumstances of an actual state of war, at a time when serious casu- 
alties have happened, and still may happen, by some of which the government 
may suffer the inconvenience of being without a head; yet, in expectation of 
his return, it was not deemed advisable to name another president of the court, 
Avho, in the event of a vacancy in the presidency of the republic, might assume 
its functions as substitute. 

Sixthly. In addition to responsibility, incurred through official vacation of 
his post as president of the court, he has likewise violated the rules of good 
order, inasmuch as, holding a position as general, he has gone to reside perma- 
nently in a foreign country, during continuance of a state of war, and thereby 
abandoned the cause of the republic, its standard and army. 



396 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

Eighthly. Considering- that the government tan and ought to declare this 
responsibility, with the power and ample functions delegated to it by congress, 
not in opposition to, by applying a just remedy in necessary cases, according to 
the provisions of the constitution with regard to public functionaries — 

I decree as follows : 

Article I. The citizen G-eneralJesus Gonzalez Ortega, inasmuch as from his 
having taken up a permanent residence in a foreign land during a continuance 
of actual hostilities, without license or commission from the government, has 
rendered himself responsible to a charge of official dereliction, in voluntarily 
abandoning his office as president of the supreme court of justice; that, when 
he presents himself upon the soil of tbe republic, the government will make such 
dispositions as will establish his guiltiness. 

Art. II. Tbe government, employing the plenary powers delegated by con- 
gress, and applying article 101 of the constitution, declares that cause exists 
to proceed against the citizen Jesus Gonzalez Ortega, and that, when he pre- 
sents himself upon the soil of the republic, a judicial inquisition will be had 
against him for a crime against good order, for that, while holding the position of 
a general in the army, he has resided permanently and voluntarily in a foreign 
land, during continuance of hostilities, without license from the government, 
thereby abandoning the army, its standards, and the cause of the republic. 

Art. III. Conformably to precedent, established by congress, the govern- 
ment, in exercise of its plenary powers, will nominate a president of the supreme 
court of justice to serve as a substitute to the President, should a vacancy occur 
prior to the time when the office shall be turned over to his successor, constitu- 
tionally elected, as soon as the state of the war wiH permit an election to be held. 

For all of which I order this to be printed, published, and circulated, that force 
be given the same. 

Given at El Paso del Norte this eighth day of November, in the year 1S65. 

BENITO JUAREZ. 

The Citizen Sebastian Lerdo de Tejada. 



Protest of the citizen Jesus G. Ortega, president of the supreme court of justice 
of the Mexican republic, against the decrees issued by Don Benito Juarez, on 
the 8th day of November, 1865. 

The impolitic and disgraceful act consummated by Don Benito Juarez, in 
issuing, through your official hands, the decrees of the 8th of November last 
past, has placed me in the painful position, aware of the circumstances surround- 
ing the political situation of the Mexican republic, of protesting before and in 
the name of the nation against the subject-matter and import of those manifestoes : 

Firstly. For that they are against the express provisions of the political con- 
stitution of the republic, and are consequently arbitrary, illegal, and void of effect. 

Secondly. For that they create a dictatorship, to be wielded by Benito Juarez, 
who can, at his option, supersede one of the federal authorities, sovereign and 
independent, whose functions have been recognized by the vote of the nation, in 
this wise destroying a republican principle, and the basis of legal order — that is, 
the form of government established by the constitution. 

Thirdly. For that they are contrary to the spirit of the poAvers delegated to 
the executive by the national congress, which to-day, notwithstanding existence 
of a war with France, declared, while making the concessions contained in the 
decree of December 11, 1S61, whereby authority of every nature was conceded 
to the executive to institute, unrestrictedly, such measures as might be consid- 
ered apt and proper under the actual circumstances, that such powers were to be 
exerted with a sole view of preserving the independence and integrity of the 
national territory, the form of government established by the constitution, and the 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 397 

principles and laws of reform. Moreover, the law of October 27, 1862, imposed 
a positive restriction that the executive could do nothing contrary to the provi- 
sions of Title IV of the constitution, which provides that the President has no 
power to declare if cause exists against any public functionary — a restriction 
conceived and set forth with the aim of precluding possibility of the President 
abusing his power to the detriment of constitutional authority. 

Fourthly. For that the decrees aforesaid seriously compromise the independ- 
ence of the nation, robbing its defenders of a legitimate government, which alone 
can serve as a rallying point for united patriotism, and substituting in its stead 
an illegal usurpation, with no more force in authority than that of the unconsti- 
tutional decrees now issued. 

Fifthly. For that the tone of those decrees is insulting to the Mexican people, 
battling for principle beneath the constitutional banner, as from a perusal of their 
text it may be inferred that blood, spilled by thousands of patriots and martyrs, 
had been outpoured with no other object than for a defence of the person of 
Benito Juarez, and that, without the salvation of this individual, the cause of 
Mexico would be hopeless. 

Sixthly. For that the statements set forth in those decrees are not only 
founded upon sophistry, but contain calumnies affecting my personal and official 
character. 

The obligations of the solemn oath assumed by me as constitutional presi- 
dent of the supreme court of justice, in accordance with the letter and spirit of 
the constitution, have been so far observed by me in full faith, as well as with a 
regard for the popular rights secured the nation by that instrument, as the na- 
tion, when again recovering full exercise of its privilege, must hold all function- 
aries to a strict accountability. 

Eagle Pass, December 21, 1865. 

JESUS G. ORTEGA. 

Don Sebastian Lbrdo db Tejada. 



The citizen Jesus G. Ortega, constitutional president of the suj)reme court of 
justice, to the Mexican nation: 

Mexicans: Don Benito Juarez has issued, at El Paso del Norte, on the 8th 
day of November last past, through the intermediation of Don Sebastian Lerdo 
de Tejada, acting as minister of relations and government, two decrees — in one 
extending the duration of his own powers, and in the other divesting of authority 
the president of the supreme court of justice. Although alleging two separate 
pretexts for this last decree, it has been issued with the sole and exclusive aim 
of arrogating to his personal action the election of the vice-president of the re- 
public, a person who, by the express terms of the constitution, is entitled to and 
should succeed to the exercise of the supreme executive power on the 1st of 
December following. There is nothing singular in this step of the Sefior Lerdo 
de Tejada, when his past political career has been called to mind. It must be 
remembered that he was one of the persons participating in the coup d'etat of 
Comonfort — a bloody page in the history of Mexico, which excited the scandal 
of the world. Returning to the soil <>f my country, whither I had been drawn 
from promptings of honor and duty, and where I had come to fulfil the duties 
of the office which I had received, not from Benito Juarez, but through the 
spontaneous expression of national confidence, the first spectacle which greeted 
my vision was its genial horizon lowering over a blood-stained country, strewn 
with the ruins of a political edifice, previously raised at so dear a cost. There 
were presented to me two decrees, foreshadowing the gloom of the future. Be- 
neath their shadow I perceived' anarchy and disorder, an outrage upon the 



398 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

Mexican people, another scandal in our political history, as the inevitable con- 
sequences of acts reprobated by morality and experience, the deeds of men who 
have prostituted the law into a means to serve their personal ambition, instead 
of administering it for the public good. They revived the painful reflection that 
Mexicans, treasuring confidence in the purifying influences of republicanism, had 
deceived themselves when they had hoped that ignominy had forever disappeared 
from their midst, leaving behind it' but a melancholy memory of previous mis- 
deeds. 

My first impression was to postpone all action for the benefit of my country, 
for which I would have spared no sacrifice, whatever may be its magnitude. 
My public career, heretofore without stain, is the clearest testimony of the truth 
of my sentiments. Two expedients presented themselves whereby to extricate 
myself from my cruel position.-. The one was to remain mute, saying not a word 
against the illegality of these decrees, immolating myself upon the altar of my 
country, retiring to some foreign land, so that the friends of legality, of popular 
right, of constitutional privilege, should have no other banner to rally around 
than that set up in this arbitrary manner. The other was to protest against 
these decrees, leaving national rights intact, yet not to erect a new standard, for 
this might generate a fresh and imprudent scandal. Neither was I willing to 
absent myself, for such a desertion would militate against principle. Had I 
followed the first suggestion, I would have abandoned rights, not my own, but 
those of the people, transmitted to me through their votes; I should have shirked 
fulfilment of ihe oath taken before the national congress, and avoided perform- 
ance of the duties of my official position, substituting in their stead a modest 
shame ; I would have abandoned the straight road and turned aside into another, 
whether for good or evil, but which assuredly was not the pathway of duty and 
honor. Moreover, it would have resulted in leaving the country without a legal 
government, without which it would have been impossible to have made head 
against a colossal enemy ; it would have authorized a fresh attack upon the 
dignity of the law, without which it is hopeless to anticipate a permanent estab- 
lishment of the republic and of national tranquillity. 

In adopting a second course, I would fulfil my duty and demonstrate to the 
nation that I was not a party, either tacit or active, to the blow inflicted upon 
constitutional rights ; I would show to the world that the errors of two men were 
not those of the nation, whose interests are derived from a more elevated origin — 
interests which Mexico has defended for the last ten years; and, finally, I would 
place myself in a position before my country capable of defending my conduct. 
Neither did I believe that persistence in silence would better the military condi- 
tion of the war. Consequently, I determined upon this last line of conduct, and 
directed to Don Sebastian de Lerdo de Tejada the protest against the unconsti- 
tutional decrees to which I have alluded. 

ARTICLES OF THE CONSTITUTION. 

Art. 79. The President shall enter upon the functions of his office on the 
first day of December, and continue for the term of four years. 

Art. 79. Iu the temporary absence of the President of the republic, and in 
the interim before his successor qualifies, the president of the supreme court of 
justice shall enter upon and perform the duties of that office. 

Art. 80. If the absence of the President be absolute, a new election will be 
held, in accordance with the provisions of Art. 76 ; and the President in this 
wise elected will perform his functions until the last day of November of the 
fourth year from the time of his election. 

Art. 82 If, from any cause whatsoever, the election for President is not held 
and published by the first day of December, by which time the vacancy should 
have been filled, or that the candidate elect should fail to enter upon the per- 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 399 

ormance of his duties, the term of the previous President, nevertheless, ceases, 
and the supreme executive power, during the interim, will vest in the president 
of the supreme court of justice. 

Art. 94. The members of the supreme court of justice, upon entering upon 
the functions of their office, shall take an oath before congress, or, in the event 
of its adjournment, before the permanent deputation, in the following form: 
"You do swear loyally and patriotically to fill the office of magistrate of the 
supreme court of justice, which the people have conferred upon you, conformably 
to the constitution, and regarding only the welfare and prosperity of the union.'' 
Art. 95. The office of magistrate of the supreme court of justice can only be 
renounced for grave causes, (por causa grave,) qualified by congress, unto whom 
the renunciation must be presented, if during its adjournment the qualification 
shall be made by the permanent deputation. 

Title IV. — Responsibilities of public functionaries. 

Art. 103. The deputies of the congress of the union, the magistrates of the 
supreme court, and cabinet secretaries, are responsible for malfeasance in office, 
and for the derelictions or omissions which occur during their continuance in 
office. The governors of States are equally responsible for infractions of the 
constitution and federal laws. So, also, is the President of the republic ; bat 
during his term of office he can only be accused, on charges of treason against 
the country, of express violation of the constitution, of attacks upon the elective 
franchise, and of criminal offences of the common order. 

Art. 104. If the crime be of the common order, congress, acting as a grand 
jury, will decide whether there be cause to proceed against the accused. In the 
case of a regular decision, no ulterior proceedings can be had. Should the 
decision be affirmative, the accused will be suspended from office and subjected 
to the action of the ordinary tribunals. 

Art. 1 05. In cases of malfeasance, congress will act as a jury of accusation, 
and the supreme court as a tribunal for judgment. 

The jury of accusation will declare as to the guilt of the accused by a ma- 
jority of votes. If the accusation be absolved, the official will continue in the 
enjoyment of his office ; if sustained, the offender will be immediately divested 
of office, and placed at the disposition of the supreme court. This court, 
erected into a tribunal of sentence, in the presence of the criminal, the public 
prosecutor and the accuser, if any there be, shall proceed to pronounce, by a 
majority of votes, the penalty which the law provides. 

Art. 106. Judgment pronounced for responsibility as to malfeasance, no 
pardon can be granted the transgressor. 

Art. ] 07. Responsibility as to malfeasance can only be exacted during the 
term of the offender's office, and for the period of one year thereafter. 

Art. 108. In demands of a civil order, there is neither process nor immunity 
for public functionaries. 

In according extraordinary powers to the executive, by reason of the state of 
war, congress, in its concessions in the decree of October 27, 1862, imposed an 
express and definite restriction that he should do nothing contrary to *the 
provisions of title IV of the constitution. Hence it can be readily surmised 
that congress had other objects in imposing this restriction upon the executive 
beyond the mere conservation of constitutional order, in placing the high dig- 
nitaries of the state beyond reach of presidential attack. They evidently 
feared that, were unlimited power placed in the hands of the executive, he 
might proceed against some functionary, and in this wise produce internal dis- 
order, as Juarez has done in this instance, contrary to the provisions of the 
fonstitutioi',- through abuse of the powers accorded by congress, and to the 
^•^ifest prejudice of public decency. 



400 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

According to article 95 of the constitution, " the office of magistrate of the 
supreme court of justice can only be renounced for grave causes, {for causa 
grave,) qualified by congress, unto whom the renunciation must be presented. 
If during its adjournment, the qualification shall be made by the permanent 
deputation." A sufficient answer to this consists in the fact that I have not 
renounced the office conferred upon me by popular suffrage, nor has any grave 
cause been urged against me to render such a step advisable, and consequently 
no qualification lias been made by either congress or the permanent deputation. 

I have quoted the preceding provisions of the constitution, so that from a 
perusal of their text the enormity of their infraction is apparent, and not with 
a view to exhibit the utter worthlessness of the pretensions upon which are 
based the decrees of November, which attempt would be an insult to the com- 
•mon sense of the general public. 

In the decrees of Juarez, and the circular accompanying them, he has 
sought to furnish a sample of logic and explanation of our constitutional law. 
To these puerile expedients he has had recourse, for want of better reasons to 
support his assumptions. Neither as a Mexican, nor as a magistrate, do I wish 
to discuss this point ; the nation will adjudicate upon the simple narration of 
fact. I would it were within my province to reveal all ; it would vindicate my 
conduct and place Juarez and Lerdo in no enviable and patriotic light ; but 
national interests demand my silence. 

The coup d'etat of Comonfort, in 1857, caused Don Benito Juarez, then 
chief justice of the supreme court, to enter upon the executive functions of the 
Union. Legal order established after three years of civil war, congress met in 
1S61, and there being no person legally entitled to assume the functions of the 
presidency of the republic, in the event of a vacancy, by reason of the presi- 
dent of the supreme court of justice having entered upon the duties of the chief 
executive, an election was held to supply the vacancy in the order of succession 
to the presidency, and, in accordance with that design, I was elected to the 
presidency of the supreme court ad interim. About that period I had been 
elected, by the popular vote, governor of the State of Zacatecas. 

After assuming the prescribed oath of office, as president of the court ad 
interim, before the national representatives, I proceeded a few days thereafter 
to the city of Zacatecas, and assumed the governorship of that State. 

This occurred in the year 1861. During the last months of that year, and 
the earlier ones of 1862, I acted alternately as constitutional governor of Zaca- 
tecas, governor and military commander of the State of San Luis Potosi, and 
military commander of the States of Aguas Oalientes and Tamaulipas. This last 
disposition was made in consequence of the state of the war. 

During all this time neither the nation, the permanent deputation, nor con- 
gress, when it assembled, perceived that I had abandoned the presidency ad 
interim of the supreme court, nor did they detect that incompatibility in office- 
holding which Sefiors Juarez and Lerdo de Tejada seek to discover by a resort 
to obsolete constitutional authority, with the aim of finding out that which has 
no existence in our present national compact. 

It had been the desire of congress simply to select a person with an acknowl- 
edged and legal title to succeed to the presidency of the republic, in the event 
of a vacancy, and not an individual to preside over the ordinary business of 
the court. The political emergencies of the period, particularly during a state 
of war, demanded the recognition of a person entitled to the succession, and it 
mattered little whether he was, or was not, governor of Zacatecas. 

During normal times it might have proven inconvenient for the same individual 
to enjoy two employments ; still the constitution is silent on that head, and neither 
have I pretended to fill both at the same time. The war and state of the country 
governed my actions, and not my own inclinations, for my honor and sense of 
duty to my native land have impelled me to situations wherein I could render 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 401 

myself most useful to my country. Moreover, I have ever deemed it a gratifica- 
tion to obey the summons -winch the nation extends to a. soldier of the people. 
I have referred to past events, not for the sake of argument, but to cite facts, 
patent to the world, and ratified by popular opinion. 

During my sojourn in Zacatecas and San Luis, at a distance from the capital 
of the republic, a popular election was held for the presidency of the supreme 
court of justice, which election, according to the declaration of the house, resulted 
in my elevation to that dignity, notwithstanding opposition from the administra- 
tion of Benito Juarez, with all its power and influence. 

When elected I was constitutional governor of Zacatecas ; and notwithstanding 
that fact, on my transit through the capital of the republic, I took the oath of 
office and entered upon its functions for a day, and thence passed on to assume 
command of my army division in the department of the east. 

Shortly after, I took command, in my capacity as general-in-chief, of that 

department, and a very little later officiated as governor and military commander 

of the State of Puebla, which I held until the middle of the year 1863; and 

during all this period I maintained a second capacity, as I have stated, namely, 

•as constitutional governor of Zacatecas. 

During the interval of my respective services, neither the nation, the perma- 
nent deputation, nor congress discovered any abandonment on my part of the 
presidency of the court, neither did they perceive that incompatibility in em- 
ployments concerning which so much has been said. I was found exactly 
where my duty as a soldier summoned me. 

Having been taken prisoner on the plaza of Puebla, it appears that some 
propositions were made in the house, having for their object the nomination of 
some person to replace me in office. No action was had on these propositions, 
as my nomination had been made for the presidency of the court in compliance 
with the requirements of the constitution ; consequently the appointment of any 
other person would have been invalid on account of its unconstitutionality. 
The records of the congressional session attest the truth of these facts. Having 
attained freedom through an escape from the prison of Orizaba, I forthwith 
hastened to San Luis, where I found the government located. After opening 
the supreme court, I directed my steps to the State of Zacatecas, in nowise 
abandoning the presidency of the court, as has been malignantly asserted, but, 
on the contrary, complying with all the rules and regulations governing the 
internal organization of that body. 

At the time of my march, and my separation from the court, I demonstrated 
to the magistrates that my escape from prison in nowise compromised my parole 
of honor, and that my object was to hold myself in readiness to struggle for the 
independence of Mexico, whose salvation depended rather upon feats of arms 
than upon discussions of points of law, and hence I was anxious to present 
myself in a State of which I was a son and the governor, to impose new obstacles 
to the advance of the invader. My colleagues approved of my resolution. A 
little later was conceded the license I solicited ; at the time, I was still governor 
of Zacatecas. 

I had, on many occasions, organized the troops of Zacatecas and commanded 
them through various successful campaigns. I had been one of the leaders of 
the State during the revolution for reform and the establishment of public order. 
I had been a governor for five years, and was so at the time, haviug been re- 
elected by the popular vote. 

It was natural to suppose I exerted no little influence upon the political affairs 
of that population. My convictions, and, I may assert without fear of equivoca- 
tion, the convictions of my copatriots, demanded that I should devote my 
energies to the reorganization of its troops, to oppose a bold front to the enemy 
during those solemn moments of the country. 

It is but rational to presume that the government of the union would have 
26 MEX. 



402 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

been actuated by similar patriotic convictions. The spectacle of the national 
drama remained unchanged, or, if it had changed at all, the aspect had been 
rendered more melancholy by the misfortunes incurred at Mexico and Puebla ; 
nevertheless, personal interests, shielded from public scrutiny, overpowered con- 
siderations for the common weal. 

During anterior years my permanent presence at the court had not been 
deemed requisite, neither was it so considered when I lay besieged within the 
walls of Puebla. But in those days organs of the popular voice were on the 
alert, keeping constant guard over the interests of the state. 

The government worked only to stultify my influence ; it operated to preclude 
any opportunity of my sharing the popular destiny through rendering fresh 
services to the country. The cardinal policy of all its acts tended towards 
ulterior purposes. 

My position at the head of the troops of an influential democratic State was 
one of the most serious obstacles Mexico presented to the invader ; it served, 
moreover, as a sentinel, guarding the legal rights and privileges of the people, 
so that the offices of the State could not be disposed of as if they were in the 
hands of private proprietors. 

The administration of Sehor Juarez, instead of employing for the benefit of 
Mexico the great or little influence which I possessed in Zacatecas, commenced 
intriguing, in a private manner, with a view of removing matters and persons 
to another sphere, in order to neutralize my influence. At the same time, Senor 
Juarez indited a private epistle to Don Severo Oosio, who acted as governor of 
Zacatecas, promising him a continuance in office. As the tenor of the commu- 
nication was of a private character, and related to the personal opinions of the 
President, the patriot, Senor Cosio, answered in a like style, assuring him that 
my influence in the State, taken in connection with my official position as gov- 
ernor, was of importance, if not absolutely necessary, did they desire to "defend 
the integrity of the State. Nevertheless, the intrigues continued. Shortly after 
came commissioners and agents of the government, who tendered proposals of 
command to the general, Don Victoriano Zamora, who had been provisional 
constitutional governor of the said State in previous years. Civil war was on 
the point of breaking out in Zacatecas by reason of the private intrigues of the 
government; and this, too, at a time when the French army was penetrating 
into the interior of the country, and Zacatecas was standing in threat of an 
attack. 

The government was well aware that, should it declare Zacatecas to be in a 
state of siege, with a view of appointing a governor selected by it to supersede 
me, it would be my duty to obey the mandate ; but, at the same time, the gov- 
ernment was likewise aware that such an act would be reprobated by a State 
notoriously jealous of the exercise of its privileges, and one which contributed 
the most towards the defence of independence under a constitutional regime. 
It was aware, moreover, that the nation at large would recognize, in an act of 
that nature, the motive of its dictation to be to impair my popularity to serve its 
own personal inclinations. All these machinations crumbled to pieces, shaken 
by the patriotism and common sense of the people of that section of the republic. 

The country disapproved of all these things, for it was deemed necessary to dis- 
card private interests, and to concentrate every energy towards the public welfare. 
"With this object in view a delegation, composed of the deputies, the licentiate 
Don Jose Maria Castro, and Colonel Don Jesus Leora, was sent to the city of 
San Luis, there to address the government in a firm, yet respectful manner, as 
to the resolution taken up by Zacateces to furnish troops, in its sovereign ca- 
pacity, in accordance with its population and dignity, which forces would be 
placed at the disposal of the supreme government, At the same time the dele- 
gation was charged to request that no more obstacles should be placed in the 
way of its particular government when endeavoring to discharge its patriotic 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. ■ 403 

mission. Finally, the State agreed to guarantee all ray actions, and pledged 
itself to pay over monthly the assessment levied upon it as a national contribu- 
tion. 

The general government had previously despatched agents into the State 
ostensibly to act as collectors of revenue, but, in reality, to impede my progress 
in the work of raising troops. Had the government stood in need of resources, 
the delegation were prepared to stipulate as to payment of contributions, under 
the proviso of having the amount definitely determined. The delegation had 
interviews with Senor Juarez and some of his ministers without arriving at any 
satisfactory conclusion. Nothing could be more natural, for they were strenu- 
ously opposed by two ministers, holding secret communications with the enemy, 
as was shortly afterwards demonstrated to the public through the notoriety of 
their treason. These ministers, in treacherous employ, naturally exerted every 
endeavor to damage the republic, and through complication of affairs to augment 
its perilous condition. Nevertheless, all their arguments were warmly applauded 
by this same Senor Juarez, for they flattered his vanity by encouraging expecta- 
tions as to his prolongation of his term of office. 

The definite answer received by the delegation was to the effect that it would 
manifest to me that the government had no inclination to recall its agents, and 
neither did it stand in need of troops, as there were sufficient under the com- 
mand of Generals Doblado and Uraga. 

The delegation conveyed to me the result of its mission, and I detected the 
hand of treason in these machinations of the cabinet. So, was it possible that 
the defence of our independence demanded no further soldiery, when a foreign 
army was invading the national domain ? Did no necessity exist for fresh 
troops, when the army of the east had been dissipated at Puebla 1 My con- 
science dictated perseverance in discharge of my duty as a Mexican, and as 
governor of Zacatecas. 

Shortly after, Senor Juarez departed from the State of San Luis and proceeded 
to that of Coahuila, in consequence of the loss of the division under General 
Negrete, which served him as an escort. 

About this time the deputy Don Trinidad Garcia de la Cadena visited Sal- 
tillo on a mission from the governor of Zacatecas to Senor Juarez. Upon con- 
cluding his official business he was invited to a private interview with Senor 
Lerdo de Tejada, minister of foreign relations and government. Thither he 
presented himself, and received from the minister proposals flattering his ambi- 
tion as to a military command. It was proposed to him that, upon my first ab- 
sence from the city of Zacatecas, he should seize upon the governorship, sup- 
ported by the troops beneath his command as a colonel. Pie was, moreover, 
informed that the government would approve of this measure, and would imme- 
diately thereafter forward him his commission as governor of the State. 

Senor Garcia de la Cadena, a native of Zacatecas, who had rendered the coun- 
try signal service, both in politics and the army, refused to accept this proposi- 
tion, objecting that such a course would excite a civil war within a State upon 
the eve of invasion by foreign force. Nevertheless, the intrigues were not as 
yet concluded. The same Senor Cadena, while communicating to me the nar- 
rative of his official mission, remarked : " I have noted, in all my conferences at 
Saltillo with Senor Lerdo de Tejada and his subordinates, that a strong desire 
exists for the disbandment of the troops which you have organized and are con- 
tinuing to organize. They fear them, because they also dread the arrival of the 
period at which the term of Juarez's office will expire, as, of course, Senor 
Lerdo desires to continue in discharge of his ministerial functions." 

My relations in the general government were apparently in concert and har- 
mony. The course of* the war compelled it to withdraw more than 150 leagues 
from Zacatecas, and experience demonstrated that it had ample need of the 
forces which I had been engaged in organizing. 



404 • CONDITION OF AFFAIES IN MEXICO. 

In one or two months I raised, equipped, and armed a strong division of the 
three arms of the service. They had been raised in the midst of these numer- 
ous intrigues, and against the inclinations of Senor Juarez, and served to co- 
operate, in more than one instance, most efficaciously for the salvation of his 
person, and consequently of that of the legitimate government, beside paying 
implicil; obedience to orders received from him. 

Herein are some of the consequences of the abandonment, as he states, of the 
presidency of the supreme court while at San Luis. 

I was still within the State of Zacatecas, at the head of the division I had 
organized, when most reliable information was communicated to me with regard 
to the contemplated treason of Don Jose Lopez Uraga, who commanded, as 
general-in-chief, the flower of the republican army, in the south of Jalisco. 

I repeatedly communicated this intelligence to Sellor Juarez, so that he might 
institute effective measures with regard to this general and avoid the destruction 
of our army. 

General Corona possessed a command under the immediate orders of Uraga. 
When he became aware of his superior's treason he demanded his passports and 
withdrew. Passing through Zacatecas, he entered into a conversation with me 
relative to this treason. 

Corona gave to the government a minute and official narration of the affair, 
and placed the manuscript in my hands for transmission, which I sent forward 
by a special messenger. This messenger was Captain Don Marcelino E. Ca- 
vero, an officer who had likewise separated from the forces of Uraga, and who 
was charged to communicate other details verbally to the government. 

Other chiefs, coming from the south of Jalisco, successively visited me, cor- 
roborating particulars of the affair. I was assured by all of them that full 
knowledge of Uraga's contemplated treason had been communicated to the gov- 
ernment by the illustrious and patriotic General Arteaga. At a later period I 
found this statement substantiated in au autographic letter of that unfortunate 
and lamented general. 

General Don Felipe B. Berriozabal, passing through the State of Zacatecas, 
invited me to a conference with the intention of placing me in possession of facts 
connected with the treason projected in Jalisco. Urgent military business pre- 
cluded my presence at the proposed interview. 

General Berriozabal, without loss of time, pressed forward to the States of 
Coahuila and Nuevo Leon, then the seats of the government. 

He presented himself thither, and gave most conclusive evidence of the exist- 
ence of the treason alluded to, as that was the object of his mission. He did 
more — he denounced Uraga to the government as guilty of high treason. Still 
nothing was done. SeSor Juarez made but a single reply, saying, " That if 
Senor Berriozabal had been invited to participate in the projected treason, it 
had been, doubtlessly, done as a test of his firmness and constancy." 

The general, taking into consideration what had passed, and the support be- 
stowed upon Uraga by the Senors Juarez and Lerdo, withdrew his accusation 
and remitted to the government a communication, very respectful, yet expressed 
in emphatic terms, in which he stated that either the government should inves- 
tigate the charges made against him by Uraga, or he would publish documents 
dishonorable alike to Uraga and the government. His demand was complied 
with, and Senor Berriozabal gave to light the communication to which I have 
alluded and the answer, wherein he vindicated himself, preserving in obscurity 
the documents to which he referred. Senors Juarez and Lerdo persistently 
turned a deaf ear to complaints ; they regarded as of no account the depositions 
and information given by persons interested. The honor of Mexico, the moral- 
ity of the army, the salvation of the elements for a successful defence of our in- 
dependence, appeared to them of no value. It was a matter of policy to destroy 
these elements, created, as all the world knows and admits, by the States of the 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 405 

confederation through their individual energies and resources. It was abso- 
lutely necessary to demolish the sustenance of constitutional order, in order to 
create other elements and other agencies with the aim of perpetuating, when the 
time arrived, power in the hands of Senor Juarez. I state this, for I know of 
no other explanation which can be given of anterior facts. Moreover, I am au- 
thorized in this statement by the facts themselves, as I have heard from the 
very lips of Senor Lerdo, when he says : "The destruction of existing things is 
of no consequence ; great causes save themselves. Our sole question of to-day 
is how to live." 

Every one is aware of the manifold means at the disposal of a minister for the 
complication of a political situation, whereby, of his own accord, he can under- 
mine the foundations of public order. The secret workings of his cunning may 
escape the observation of the multitude, but never the penetrating criticism of 
the historian. Nevertheless, how much more easy the destructive task through 
the machinations of an arbitrary minister, versed in the art of cajoling the vanity 
of a dominant executive. 

Located in the city of Zacatecas were two strong divisions of the three arms 
of service, Avith a formidable train of artillery ; the one under the command of 
General Doblado, the other under my orders. Both divisions were at the dis- 
posal of the government when it saw proper to use them. Although both of 
these corps were located at several days' march from the plaza of San Luis, an 
order was given to General Negrete by the government to assail that position 
with the single division at his disposition. 

This division was completely destroyed in the attack ; subsequently the 
division of General Doblado was cut up by piecemeal at Matehuala ; a little 
later mine was annihilated at Majoma. 

At a conference which I subsequently had with Senor Juarez at Monterey, 
in the presence of the minister of war, I remarked to him that the period was 
not far distant when the nation would hold, the government to an account for 
the disastrous manner in which it had frittered away the material for the national 
defence, through dispersing the elements of resistance by fractions, for, Avhat- 
ever may have been its intentions, the work of the government bore that ap- 
pearance. 

' In August of last year the withdrawal of our forces and of the seat of gov- 
ernment from Nuevo Leon and Coahuila was determined upon. General Negrete 
had then charge of the ministry of war, to which he conjoined a double employ- 
ment as commander-in chief of the army, composed of two divisions, the one 
under command of General Alcade, and the other under my orders — the same 
as I had raised in Zacatecas. 

In the city of Saltillo I received orders from the general-in-chief to march to 
the Punta de la Angostina, at the head of the two divisions, and there give 
battle to the enemy, should they court it. If they avoided an engagement I 
was to retire the same night in the direction of the villa of Mouclova. I obeyed 
my orders and accomplished the latter command, finding it impossible to execute 
the first. 

A little after my retreat I effected a junction with General Negrete, whose 
headquarters were at Saltillo. On the morrow the government united with the 
forces and journeyed in company to the Hacienda del Anhelo. From this point 
the government resolved to progress, by way of Parras, to Chihuahua, carrying 
along with it General Negrete, who officiated as minister of war. 

The responsibility of saving our army was committed to my charge, although 
in an indirect manner, for I had not been nominated general-in-chief, but assigned 
to the command of the rear-guard, following in the wake of the government. 
This circumstance is to be noted as explanatory of the manner in which I was 
forced to assume the responsibility. 

The army was absolutely destitute of commissary stores, while the military 



406 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

chest contained not a single dollar. Its route lay over the most inhospitable 
and uninhabited section of the national territory ; for the greater part over a 
feai'ful desert, devoid of grain and forage for cattle. Besides, on these barren 
plains it was liable to be attacked and cut to pieces by the French forces for 
the want of the necessaries I have mentioned. 

It is likewise to be remembered that, if the army was unprovided with a 
dollar to supply its absolute necessities, it was not from want of means, which 
could have been provided beforehand, especially as two months had elapsed 
after the retreat had been determined upon. 

The government had abandoned a plaza which it had occupied during several 
months, replete with resources, as was that of Monterey, where it could, and did, 
avail itself of the revenues from the frontier custom-houses of Matamoras and 
Piedras Negras. 

I took my line of march in obedience to orders I had received. On the road 
I notified the government that the French army was only four leagues distant, 
and received in reply a written order signed by Don Sebastian Lerdo de Tejada, 
saying that I should abandon all my artillery and trains and limit myself to 
saving the personnel only of our army, to effect which I was free to take any 
measure I should deem expedient. 

I remonstrated energetically to Senor Lerdo de Tejado, that acquiescence in 
the order I had received would in no way result in saving the personnel of our 
army, inasmuch as we would abandon the only means of its salvation in volun- 
tarily sacrificing our war material, while at the same time we were compro- 
mising the honor of our arms. I said, however, that if, notwithstanding any 
opposition, the government should insist upon observance of that order, it should 
be communicated to me officially, to absolve me from responsibility. My argu- 
ment was attended to, and the minister answered that the government approved 
of my determination not to anticipate voluntarily the sacrifice of material, but to 
await the chances of a battle. The French army avoided a conflict at that 
time. 

I continued my march without interruption, losing, it is true, in the desert, a 
third or fourth part of our army, hundreds of mules, and a greater part of our 
munitions of war. 

I then gave notice to the government, located at the Villa del Almo de Parras, 
that I had detected symptoms of a dissolution of the forces, as well from scarcity 
of provisions and stores, as from consequences of the privations endured by the 
army. 

To avoid that calamity, I received an order from the minister of relations not 
to separate myself from the body of my troops. 

At the hacienda of Santa Rosa a council of war was summoned by the gov- 
ernment, at which, after hearing the opinion of the ministers, I received the 
appointment of commander-in-chief of the army. 

At the same time there were accorded to me extraordinary powers to procure 
a supply of metallic currency, of which the army stood in absolute need, with 
the restriction, however, of acting on this point in concert with General Patoni, 
the constitutional governor of Durango, in which State were located both the 
army and the government, who would effect some arrangement with the landed 
proprietary to supply the wants of the soldiers. Patoni assured me of the im- 
possibility of enforcing contributions upon the landholders, reduced to penury 
through the hardship of the war. If this were true, as it doubtless was, it only 
went to aggravate the privations of the troops, caused through the intentional 
want of foresight in the government. It was under circumstances of this 
unavoidable nature that the army, whose dissolution was inevitable, was placed 
under my orders as commander-in-chief. The warmest advocate for my appoint- 
ment, as I learned from the minister of war, was Don Sebastian Lerdo de Tejada. 

It is worthy of note, that if the condition of the army was bad when it com- 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 407 

menced its retreat from Anbelo, it grew notoriously worse, as was natural, from 
the causes I have related. 

It is more worthy of note, that when I took charge as commander-in-chief, 
the coffers of the government contained thousands of dollars, reserved for its 
own use and that of its employes, whom it preferred to the salvation of an army, 
whose privations had ascended to a point of heroism — an army which had been 
raised at a heavy cost to the States of Durango, Coahuila, Nuevo Leon, and 
Zacatecas. 

At the council of war, of which I have spoken, I delivered my opinion, in 
terms perfectly intelligible to the government, that we should not destroy, 
piecemeal, the material upon which we depended, and that we should take ad- 
vantage of the extent of our line to harass a formidable enemy. At the same 
time I advised giving battle to the hostile forces, regardless of the point of at- 
tack or the number of their re-enforcements, inasmuch as, in this manner, if for- 
tune proved propitious to us, we might capture some city of importance ; and if 
the reverse, it was preferable that our army should be destroyed through chances 
of war rather than through want and misery, to the dishonor of the government 
and our arms. 

I commenced my march from Santa Rosa, and posted myself between the 
States of Durango and Zacatecas, both occupied by the invading army. A few 
days afterwards occurred the battle of Majoma. 

The fortune of war caused us to lose one of two points occupied by our troops 
and artillery. I retook the point only to lose it again. 

The death of the brave Colonel Fernandez y Villagranta, who commanded 
the battalions of Zacatecas, as well as the loss of the leaders of distinction, and 
particularly the wounding of General Don Eugenio Castro, whom I had ordered 
to lead a charge of cavalry, introduced confusion among our ranks, which dis- 
order was soon checked through the ability of our officers. Under fire of the 
enemy our bodies of the national guard remained firm. Evening approached 
rapidly, when I perceived that the heat of the conflict, the physical prostration 
engendered through privation, and the march through the desert, had so far worn 
out the national troops that I ordered a retreat. It was effected in the most 
orderly manner, in the full sight of the French army, who dared not follow us ; 
consequently we left behind us but a portion of our artillery and the corpses of 
our brave and patriotic militia, whom we were forced to leave on the field of 
battle. 

It is not my intention to narrate, in a detailed manner, an account of all that 
befell us upon that disastrous day, for those matters I have already officially re- 
ported to the government. My object is merely to connect the thread of events. 
Our forces retired, in the best possible order, to the town of San Miguel del Mez- 
quital, and disbanded during the night of the same day on which occurred our 
reverses at Majoma. No discipline could have averted this final calamity. 
Every man conceived that he had discharged his duty, and that the war could 
be more successfully carried on in detached bodies. The only aspect for a con- 
trary course presented to them seemed that of privation and the desert. Senor 
Juarez was at that time in the town of Mazas, awaiting the result of my expe- 
dition, where he was visited by more than a hundred leaders, desirous of receiv- 
ing facilities and orders to continue the campaign under other auspices. But he 
did not wait their action, for, aware of the disasters occurring to our forces, he 
withdrew to Chihuahua, one hundred and fifty leagues from the place we occupied. 

I committed the insignificant remnants of our national forces to the charge of 
Generals Quesada and Carvajal, until the government could make some disposi- 
tion of them. 

I gave the official notice to which I alluded, and received an acknowledg- 
ment, which ordered me to transfer the relic of our army to General Patoni, 
which I did. In the verbal conference which I had with the government, 1 



408 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

made known to it that there still remained at its disposal a small escort of cav- 
alry which accompanied me. This I regarded as my duty, and, after a lapse of 
two or three days, I received an order to that effect, which I fulfilled. Tacitly 
I remained awaiting orders, as a general, from the government ; but this sus- 
pense in nowise suited me, so I notified it that I held myself ready to obey 
orders, and that such disposition could be made of my person as suited official 
inclination. I had no military commission to fulfil, and did not even possess 
an escort. 

I would add to these particulars many other details respecting the charge 
made by the government in one of its decrees, that "while holding the position 
of general in the army I had gone to reside permanently in a foreign land, 
during continuance of hostilities, without license from the government, and therein 
abandoning the army, its standards, and the cause of the republic," and which 
is likewise called the official dereliction of voluntarily abandoning the presi- 
dency of the supreme court of justice. A portion of the statements which I 
intend setting forth can be substantiated by reputable persons, some well known 
in the State of Chihuahua, and others of a world-wide repute. Other assertions 
bear the sanction of the government, and all observations I shall make are de- 
ducible from the state of facts. I arrived in the State of Chihuahua after the 
disaster at Majoma, some time towards the end of September, 1864, and re- 
mained in that State until the end of February, 1865, when I departed for a 
foreign country. During all this period, in Chihuahua was the seat of the gen- 
eral government, and for more than three months of the time above named I re- 
sided in the same city with the administration. During this period of inactivity 
I was tendered no command of troops to defend "the standard and cause of the 
republic ;" neither was I offered any military commission, great or small, nor did 
I receive any intimation as to the manner in which my services and good-will 
could be rendered of value to my country, although I ardently desired employ- 
ment, if only for the sake of appearances. 

The government had no desire to furnish me with troops, and in this wise de- 
prived me of opportunity to add to my influence beneath a military title ; it pre- 
ferred leaving me without positive support, and was blind to the privileges ac- 
corded to me by the law. 

About this time it became incumbent upon the executive either to relinquish 
his functions, according to constitutional provision, or to furnish" such an explan- 
ation of the law as would warrant him constitutionally to prolong his term of 
office for another year. 

The 30th of November, 1864, arrived, and terminated four years, dating from 
the election of Seilor Juarez. On that day I addressed a communication to that 
high functionary, through the medium of Don Sebastian Lerdo de Tejada, in 
his capacity as minister of government, inquiring whether it was his intention 
on the following day to pass over the executive power to me, as it had ceased 
by legal limitation ; or, if the contrary was his determination, I told him to be- 
stow upon the constitutional law such an interpretation as he might deem 
proper, whereby we could avoid anarchy, strengthen the exercise of the func- 
tions of the President of the republic, and leave intact the constitutional law — a 
law sustained by the blood of the Mexican people during a period of eight years 
in warfare. To such a conception, I added, I would be among the first to give 
my acquiescence. This he gave me on the same day, November 30, accom- 
panied by a note which had been agreed upon at a meeting of the cabinet, 
and which bore the signature of Senor Sebastian Lerdo de Tejada. It decided 
that the constitutional term of office of President Juarez did not conclude in 
that year, (1864,) but would expire on the 30th of November, 1865, according 
to the provision of the constitution. And, notwithstanding this decision, he 
claims to continue exercising the functions of President, according to the self- 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 409 

same provision of the constitution which he has previously interpreted to have 
closed his career, at the furthermost, upon the 30th day of November, 1865. 

I will insert, at this point, the exact words employed by the minister in his 
official note, in making his deductions from the premises he had laid down : 
" For which reason, it is decided that the term of office of the citizen President 
of the republic does not expire until the 30th day of the next year, 1865, con- 
formably to the evident and literal tenor of article SO of the constitution''' 

In the same communication he declared me president of the court. I did not 
pretend to this declaration, for I stood in no need of it, and neither the condi- 
tion of affairs at this epoch, nor the interests of Mexico, demanded it. I had 
been appointed by the nation constitutional president of the court in 1862, and 
the house bad declared me to be such in a most solemn manner. The decree 
containing this declaration had received the sanction of the executive and been 
published throughout the republic. 

Neither popular opinion nor the councils, municipalities, governors, and legis- 
latures of States entertained the least doubt upon the fact of my election, and 
of my being president of the court. To the nation belonged the right of ap- 
pointing supreme authorities, in accordance with the fundamental law, sole 
source and fountain of authority with us. I did not, therefore, require any 
other appointment or declaration, and especially one suited for the convenience 
of Seiiors Lerdo de Tejada and Juarez in their prospects for a future date — 
prospects whose tendencies wei'e far from the conservation of the purity of the 
law, intrusted by the nation to the guardianship of SerLor Juarez. 

The main object of the declaration was the destitution of the president of the 
court elected by the people, and the substitution of one appointed by Don 
Benito Juarez, who might have the power of removing him at his individual 
pleasure. 

Such had been the intention of the government ever since it had left the city 
of San Luis. Latterly it had suffered no opportunity to escape it to compass 
its design, even when the opportunities failed to bear the imprint of patriotism. 

In this wise the government acted, upon its arrival within the States of 
Nuevo Leon and Chihuahua, when issuing a decree summoning a reunion of the 
magistrates comprising the court. The summons found me at the head of my 
division, battling with the French troops within the interior of the republic. 

It was apparent that the sole motive for the decree was the appointment of a 
president of the court, who should owe his nomination and creation to the 
President of the republic, and thereby remove the prestige derived from a popu- 
lar election from the person who might, through emergency, act as the substi- 
tute of the supreme magistrate of the nation. But the decree failed of effect. 
Out of respect for the position I occupy, out of respect to the dignity of the 
nation — the only source whence can come nominations of supreme authorities, 
and their destitution conformably to the law — I have preserved intact the charge 
reposed in me by the voice of the people. Consequently, in my official corre- 
spondence with the President of the republic, I maintained the title conferred 
upon me by my fellow-citizens as president of the supreme court of justice. 

The determination of the government to continue in office one year longer 
was accjuiesced in by me, as I had previously anticipated that action, and my 
object had been simply to obtain a construction of the spirit of the law which 
might become a definite and decisive opinion. 

I did not accept office, neither do I continue to hold it, simply for the cause 
of self-gratification; during more glowing and less fluctuating periods, when 
fortune smiled upon me with pleasing aspect, I could have obtained official dig- 
nities, if not in a manner prescribed by the law, at least in such a way as the 
law would countenance in a successful leader, during the stormy hours of revo- 
lutionary transitions. But I have ever abided the sanction of the popular will, 
as expressed in accordance with the fundamental law. At that time, as now, I 



410 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

Slave only asked that respect be paid to the law, as a foundation-stone in the 
column sustaining our institutions, beneath the shade of which we shall pro- 
gress in greatness, as has been done in the great republic from whose borders I 
indite these sentences. 

-My official communication and the answer from the government, of which I 
have spoken, were published in the State journal. There was not the remotest 
possibility of establishing the court at the city of Chihuahua, as all the magis- 
trates were at a great distance, save the licentiate Don Manuel Ruiz. I had, 
■as I have observed, no military commission for active duty. In order to avoid 
imputation of doing aught to the disparagement of the government, and fearing 
lest my political influence might be seized upon to sanction meetings, ostensibly 
for social purposes, but in reality to distract public opinion, I withdrew myself, 
as it were, from commingling with the world, and sacrificed the pleasure of a 
social state, notwithstanding the hospitable reception tendered me by the chiv- 
alric inhabitants of that illustrious and democratic State. 

From •Chihuahua I addressed a letter to the President, Juarez, under date of 
December 28, 1864. No reference is made to this letter in the decrees of the 
8th of November. 

In this epistle I stated, that having terminated the business which called me 
to that city — that is, to ascertain whether or not his official term of service had 
ceased — I found myself without employment since the early days of October, 
when I had received orders to pass over the forces to General Patoni ; that I 
had not installed the court, and found it impossible so to do, and that, inasmuch 
as the state of affairs might result in a crisis, from the fact of the President of 
the republic and president of the court being in one city in company, and liable 
to capture by the French forces, by surprise or otherwise, and in this way leave 
the nation without a head, I requested to be granted a license as president of 
the court, and a passport as a soldier, to take my way towards the interior of 
the republic, or to any of the populations on the sea-coast, or to travel by sea 
to a foreign country, as I should esteem suited to my convenience, and with 
the object of continuing to serve my country. I transmitted this letter of soli- 
citation officially, omitting only those passages above printed in italics, which 
I did not think suitable to be incorporated in a public letter, notwithstanding 
they set forth the most cogent reasons for urging my solicitation. 

My communication was read at a meeting of the cabinet and acted upon, as 
was natural to anticipate. 

On the 29th Senor Juarez answered me in reply, saying : " There has been 
conceded to you the license and passport you solicited, and at the earliest op- 
portunity the respective ministers will forward you the documents indicated.'' 

On the 30th I received the license granted to me as president of the supreme 
court from the minister of justice, together with a passport, issued by the min- 
ister of war. 

I insert this last document at length, because, in the decrees of Benito Juarez 
an intentional omission has been made with regard to the fact of my having a 
military passport when I left the country, so that an accusation could be brought 
against me that " I had gone voluntarily to reside in a foreign country during 
the continuance of hostilities without a license from government, thereby aban- 
doning the army, its standard, and the cause of the republic." 

SECRETARY OF STATE, DEPARTMENT OF WAR AND MARINE — SECTION FIRST. 

Upon this date the minister of justice, protection, and public order, makes 
known to the citizen president of the supreme court of justice as follows : 

" In accordance with your petition, relative to having a license granted to 
you as president of the supreme court of justice to pass to a point unoccupied 
by the enemy, with the aim of continuing to defend in arms the independence of 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 411 

the republic of Mexico, the citizen President lias seen fit, in accordance with a 
meeting of the cabinet, to accord to you that license for a definite period, or 
until you present yourself at the seat of the government, or when the government 
shall call upon you to return, or bestows upon you some commission — leave, in 
the mean time, to proceed, either directly or by traversing the sea, or through 
some foreign country, to points of the Mexican republic unoccupied by the 
enemv, so that you can continue defending the national independence with the 
forces you can raise, with the understanding that in all military undertakings you 
institute you are to act in concert with the governor and military commander of 
the respective States, or with the leaders of the republican forces, so that, in 
conjunction with those raised by you, you can harass the enemy, but subordi- 
nate to the officers of the supreme government, or to the agents to whom such 
power has been delegated. 

" I convey to you the official answer to your solicitation of 2Sth of the last 
month, and I have the honor of corresponding with you for the purposes men- 
tioned. It is transmitted to you on behalf of the department of war. 

" Independence and liberty ! Chihuahua, the 30th of December, 1864. 

"M. NEGKETE. 

"The General of Division, Jesus G. Ortega, Present.'" 

From the literal tenor of the document inserted, it can be adduced — 

Firstly. That I had a license, as president of the court, and a passport as a 
soldier, to traverse foreign countries. Subsequently will be shown the reasons 
inducing me to dwell outside of the country. 

Secondly. I had no definite orders to raise this or that force, or to collect to- 
gether the elements of warfare within this or that period of time ; neither was 
there any time fixed for my reaching Mexican territory, after traversing the 
sea and sojourning in foreign lands, with the sole provision of defending, upon 
the national territory, the independence of the State, leaving me free to proceed 
to any point which I might consider the most proper. 

Thirdly. The license accorded to me, in pursuance of the decision of the 
cabinet, was for an indefinite period of time, either until I should present myself 
at the seat of government, or be recalled, or have some official charge conferred 
upon me, thereby demonstrating that neither as president of the court nor as a 
general in the army were my services for the moment required ; yet, neverthe- 
less, it is apparent that in either or both of these capacities my absence at a dis- 
tance from the seat of government was desirable. 

Fourthly. The government, instead of giving me authorization to raise forces 
in any part, or to collect war materials at a definite position, as it had done for 
a hundred other persons, and notably for guerilla chiefs, destitute of popular 
morality, issued to me a simple passport for the purpose of travel, inserting, 
however, a provision that the forces which I might raise should act in conjunc- 
tion with the governors and military commanders, and with the chiefs of the re- 
publican forces, without interference with the exercise of military and political 
functions of the officers of the supreme government or their delegates ; that is 
to say, that the government precluded possibility in my raising of forces, for 
how could a governor, haviug lost the capital of his State, secure resources or 
material to make head against an emergency ? What faculty had he to pro- 
cure them against delegated aiithority, where power so to do had been denied 
by the supreme government of the union? Could a delegate of the government, 
or even his subordinate, sustain me when my circle of action was reduced and 
limited 1 Could there be placed at my orders a solitary captain of guerillas, who 
might serve as a centre for forces which I might raise and discipline for a larger 
body, when the government provided in my passport that I should act in con- 
junction with him ? 

1 have demonstrated that I had in my possession a license to traverse the 



412 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

seas to a foreign country. I nave, moreover, demonstrated that I was recog- 
nized by the nation as president of the supreme court of justice, a duty which I 
could not exercise in a judicial capacity, through the impossibility of convening 
the court, but a position which I considered solely as the substitute to the Pres- 
ident of the republic, according to the provisions of the law. I have, moreover, 
demonstrated that I had no military employment, neither army nor forces, be 
their number ever so small, nor even the material of warfare, thanks to the official 
opposition of the government. 

I was not annoyed at this disposition in the executive, for I expected and was 
prepared for it. The services which I had rendered to my country had be- 
stowed upon *me influence, and that influence opposed personal aggrandizement. 
In remembrance of recent transactions, transactions which had presented to me 
many difficulties, which I had surmounted, I was induced again to proffer my 
sword to my unfortunate country. 

In view of intelligence from the interior, and of the disposition of the govern- 
ment, I determined to retire to a distance from it. I distrusted myself. I was 
uncertain of that which was best for the future of Mexico. I desired to be per- 
fectly correct, and sought light. 

I addressed myself for counsel to two illustrious and patriotic citizens in whom 
I had confidence, and who formed a part of the circle of the government of Seilor 
Juarez as his most zealous partisans, and I supposed them, as was natural, cog- 
nizant as to the emergencies of the times. Moreover, they were clothed with 
an official capacity as members of the general congress. They were SeSors Don 
Guillermo Prieto and Don Francisco Urquidi. Both were of an opinion that my 
best course was to proceed to the United States of America, inasmuch as from 
a port in that country I might journey to Acapulco, by the way of the isthmus 
of Panama, and thence enter the republic from the Pacific coast, and the mean 
while I might ascertain in the great republic what could be done for the Mexican 
people. • 

I accepted the suggestion and commenced my journey. Permit me to remark 
that the government was in nowise ignorant as to the course I had adopted; 
on the contrary, when I reached the custom-house at the Paso del Norte, I 
found an order to pass my baggage to the United States, which had been granted 
at the solicitation of my friends. 

Thence I went to Santa Fe, capital of New Mexico. The authorities of that 
Territory informed me of the presence there of a stranger, a Hungarian by birth, 
who represented himself as a special commissioner of the Mexican government 
to recruit volunteers, to negotiate a loan of some millions, hypothecating the 
imports of the Pacific seaports. It was, moreover, asserted that his credentials 
were apocryphal, taking into consideration that he was a foreigner, unknown to 
the Mexican residents, and the fact that nations seldom, according to universal 
custom, commit such trusts to other than their own citizens. On this account 
I deemed it advisable to institute inquiries, so that if the man should prove an 
imposter I should cause his arrest and extradition to Mexico. 

My anterior acquaintance with this stranger, named Jaymes, was through a 
letter of introduction, representing him as a colonel, soliciting employment in 
the division beneath my command in that capacity, but which I refused, as I 
was unaware of his antecedents. The information I subsequently acquired was 
that he was among the number of adventurers who travelled the world seeking 
glory and fortune. I saw him three or four times. 

I made investigations into the character of his commission, which I found, in 
many respects, ample and correct, emanating from Don Sebastian Lerdo de Te- 
jada. He was authorized to raise two thousand men in foreign parts, as well as 
the sum of several millions, hypothecating for its repayment the revenues of 
several custom-houses on the Pacific coast. The evasive talents of Serior Don 
Sebastian Lerdo de Tejada being notorious, it is supposed that he designed 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 413 

merely to cover appearances when he bestowed upon this stranger such ample 
authority to accomplish great things, when he was confidently convinced that 
he could do nothing. I explained to the authorities of Santa Fe the nature of 
the commission bestowed upon the Hungarian gentleman, and returned thanks 
to them for their zeal in favor of Mexico. I arrived in the centre of the United 
States during the period of the termination of the great civil Avar. The press 
indulged in favorable comments upon my arrival, and expressed profound sym- 
pathy with the cause of Mexico. It was likewise so with the entire continental 
press, and that of Europe. It was believed in the United States that I had 
some authority from the government, seeing that the period for action was op- 
portune, as in fact it was, that a demonstration should be made in support of 
Mexico and her independence. The enthusiasm of the Americans in our favor 
and in support of the Monroe doctrine was intense. 

On my passage from New Mexico to New York I was beset by thousands of 
persons tendering their services and influence in favor of Mexico, many of them 
being of the highest social and political position. Generals with a most honor- 
able record, commanding divisions and brigades, whose term of service had 
expired, volunteered to place themselves under my orders, to further our cause. 

The passage of the Rio del Norte could be easily effected without impairing 
the neutral character the general government at Washington had assumed with 
respect to the Franco-Mexican question. I was, moreover, visited by several 
bankers of the highest position, who inquired as to the possibility of establishing 
an agency to supply our financial wants and that of warlike material. Persons 
who represented that they had authority to act on my behalf, which they had 
not, enlisted, within a few days, thous'ands of men to go to Mexico; but, as I 
have said, I gave no sanction to these acts, as I did not wish to lead home a 
filibuster expedition. 

Without loss of time, on the 8th of May, I addressed a letter to Senor Benito 
Juarez, announcing my arrival in the United States, the manner of my reception, 
and a view of what could be done in favor of Mexico. Besides, Senor Juarez 
was aware of all this through the newspapers. I wrote, moreover, that I would 
pledge myself to enroll and equip, on my own part, any number of volunteers 
he might deem advisable; that I Avould collect Avar material to carry on hostili- 
ties, as well as an abundant sum of money, so as to be able to elevate the char- 
acter of the Avar and turn it to a fortunate account. All that was requisite to 
consummate these projects Avould be his authorization, for I was unwilling to 
conclude any contract or enter upon any enterprise without the sanction of him to 
whom the nation had committed emergent powers. I offered anew my individual 
services to Mexico. I furthermore suggested that, should he be unwilling to 
accord me the desired authorization, he should apprise me to that effect, that I 
might govern my subsequent actions accordingly. 

I communicated these details in a private epistle, and not in an official note, 
for I at that time held no official commission. This matter was one of mere 
form, and had the correspondence resulted in anything, the results would have 
been the same, irrespective of the style of communication employed. 

I appointed a delegate to deliver personally this letter to Senor Juarez, having 
previously made him aware of its contents. This task was assumed by Don 
Guillermo Prieto, administrator general of the post office and deputy to the con- 
gress of the union. It will be remembered that I had quitted Chihuahua in 
the month of February. It Avill be remembered, likewise, that my journey 
across the plains to New Mexico had occupied two months, for it had been un- 
dertaken during the Avinter season. It must be furthermore remembered that a 
period of from two months and twenty days to three months is necessary for the 
transmission of an ansAver to a correspondence between the city of Ncav York 
and Chihuahua, and even then under favorable auspices as to transit, for it is 
only during the summer season that post coaches can travel Avith rapidity. On 



414 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

this account I did not receive the answer from Don Guillermo Prieto until the 
commencement of August last. In this letter that gentleman stated that he had 
fulfilled my commission ; that Senor Juarez had listened with attention and in- 
terest to the details of my letter, as communicated verbally by Senor Prieto, 
who was given, as he supposed, to understand that I should receive, by the next 
mail, the authorization I desired. The conclusion of Senor Prieto's communi- 
cation conveyed to me a felicitation touching my patriotic sentiments. " Whether 
or not," he wrote, " the government accepts of your services, whether or not it 
renders your projects of utility to the country, you have assumed one of the 
most noble and disinterested tasks of a Mexican, in discarding all ideas of a per- 
sonal reward, while endeavoring to strengthen the action of the government, and, 
without seeking to create a new candidate for political honors, to strive to have 
Mexico continue, with unanimity of will, defending the cause of right, guided 
by a solitary intelligence — that of the legitimate government." With a subse- 
quent mail, towards the end of August, I received a further communication from 
Senor Prieto, which related to me that notwithstanding his previous impressions, 
it is now apparent to him that the government did not intend to bestow upon 
me the authorization ; but whether or not, I should receive some response from 
Senor Juarez. Vainly I awaited its receipt by the next mail and the one fol- 
lowing. It was in September, and my anterior correspondence had incurred no 
interruption. I waited upon Senor Romero, the Mexican ambassador, near the 
government of the United States, and inquired whether any communication had 
come through his hands for me from the government of the Mexican republic, 
and he answered in the negative. 

I comprehended from all this that Senor Juarez never would answer me, nor 
did ever intend so to do. He believed that had I received any such document 
it would have served to refute the fallacies upon which are based the decrees of 
the 8th of November ; which said documents, I verily believe, were at that very 
time in course of fabrication at the paper mill. of the minister, Tejada. I com- 
prehended, moreover, that these negotiations were being carried on with the sole 
aim of detaining me in the United States, so that by putting in play the jug- 
glery of bad faith, it would be impossible for me to return to Mexico before the 
first day of December. 

It would be futile to vindicate my conduct to my fellow-citizens as against the 
charges promulgated in these decrees, for a critical examination of them, through 
the impartial light of reason and philosophy, renders such an explanation unne- 
cessary. These same decrees declare illegally " that there exists cause to pro- 
ceed against me," and add most falsely " that I abandoned voluntarily the office 
of president of the supreme court of justice, and that, holding the position of 
general in the army, I went to reside permanently in a foreign land during the 
continuance of hostilities, without license from the government, and therein 
abandoned the army, its standard, and the cause of the republic ;" while in those 
same decrees, I repeat, wherein Senor Don Benito Juarez declares himself Pres- 
ident of the republic, he likewise declares that neither the constitutional presi- 
dent of the supreme court, nor the President named by the constitution, shall 
enter upon the functions of their office. This is the sole and simple object which 
dictated the promulgation of these decrees. 

If I had acted as Seiiors Juarez and Lerdo have acted, trampling under foot 
republican principles, outraging constitutional order, violating the solemn obli- 
gations of an oath assumed for the welfare of the people, I would have done 
better to imitate the coup d'etat of Comonfort, alleging as a pretext, as has 
ever been alleged, the salvation of Mexico ; for the scandal would have been 
the same, the lack of loyalty to the people the same, and the political results 
the same. A single difference might be detected : in the coup d'etat of Co- 
monfort there was but little frankness and civil valor ; in that of the 8th of 
November even these qualities were wanting, as in their stead were substituted 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 415 

words and sophisms, which, although insulting to popular intelligence, fail to 
deceive the people. 

I abandoned the standards of the army and the cause of the republic, say 
Senors Juarez and Lerdo — in other words, that I betrayed my trust. And this 
is set forth in a document wherein they betray their own, the gravest trust which 
could be committed to mortal man. To extenuate their own trausgressions 
they confuse me individually with another capacity — that of the person pre- 
scribed by law to succeed to exercise of the supreme power. I to abandon the 
standard of the army and the cause of the republic ! Oan it be imagined that 
an humble citizen, called by the will of the people to assume a position of the 
highest dignity, and that without intrigue and solicitation on his part, would 
voluntarily depart from the rules of honor and decency 1 Can it be imagined 
that an humble citizen, freely assuming his place among the ranks of the na- 
tion's defenders, disdaining the joys and pleasures of a peaceful hearthside, 
contemning the luxuries of a home and the flatteries of a social position to 
struggle in the cause of liberty and order, would voluntarily abandon the prin- 
ciple of honor which called him into being as a soldier 1 

"What man would desert the executive chair as governor of a State ? What 
man, already honored through the nation's voice with the high dignity of presi- 
dent of one of the supreme powers of the United States of Mexico, would go 
forth to battle against foreign invaders of his country, would defend the walls 
of a city wherein he was taken prisoner while defending his flag, and at the last 
hour abandon the cause of duty and honor 1 What man, escaping from a dun- 
geon and liberated through honorable means, would offer his sword and his 
patrimony to the service of his country, would contend against intrigues and 
difficulties, would levy forces after forces to hurl against the invaders wherever 
they appeared, and in the hour of national trial basely desert the army, its 
standard, and the cause of the republic 1 How can it be pretended that I fled, 
abandoning the presidency of the court, when I was travelling for the good of 
the country, with the license of and a passport from the government 1 When 
in that license and passport there had been committed to me no trust to fulfil, 
no duty imposed wherein I could make default, was it a crime to intimate to 
the government that in the position in which I found myself I could do much, 
very much, towards the salvation of your and my native land ] Was it a crime 
to reiterate, time after time, that my person was subject to its orders, so that 
my services could be rendered useful to the common weal, and all this without 
having been favored with a response to the epistle I sent it ? 

In what did I neglect my duty as a Mexican ? Wherein, yielding to the 
emergencies of my position in a foreign country, did I make default in any 
order, when leaving all projects I made to the satisfaction of the government ? 
When the government received my despatch it should have answered. frankly 
and openly that the country had no need of my services abroad, and indicated 
to me the route I should .take to return homeward. Had that been done it 
would have been nearer the truth when it declared to the natioii that I remained 
abroad permanently, although neither before nor after did I receive the least inti- 
mation that my presence was necessary upon Mexican soil. Is not an imputa- 
tion of this nature a pure calumny ] Is it worthy the dignity of the govern- 
ment ? Will such weak inventions, to be detected by those unversed in politi- 
cal matters, satisfy an accusation in the eyes of a people acquainted with the 
fundamental principles of the law % Oan any man fail to perceive in the de- 
crees and the circular which attempted to divest me of the responsibility and 
functions of the president of the court, and nominated another in my stead, a 
declaration that neither 1 nor he could succeed to the supreme power as pro- 
vided for in the constitution ? Who fails to perceive, I repeat, that all these 
documents have a single object, a single aim — that of perpetuating power in 
the hands of those issuing them 1 If my presence was necessary, as Senors 



416 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

Juarez and Lerdo would have us understand, to prevent the State from being 
without a head, why concede a license for an indefinite period of time, and 
which, from its literal interpretation, suffered me to traverse seas and to journey 
to foreign lands ? If emergencies unknown at the time of granting the license 
occurred subsequently, why was I not recalled % It is only in frank and truth- 
ful actions that a loyal government can account for the trust committed to it by 
the popular will. If, as has been pretended, the independence of Mexico re- 
quired exercise of all human energies ; if to its cause all other interests should 
have been made subordinate, why was denied me the authorization I desired, 
through which, in a foreign land, I might' have proved of advantage to Mexico? 
It was because it was feared that I might acquire influence, which did not suit 
the interest of others : ill disguised as it is, the fact is true. 

To what other cause can this be attributed ? Was it because the government 
had need of my services to take the head of affairs, should a vacancy occur, or 
was it to fulfil my judicial functions 1 It will be seen that the court had never 
assembled, for it was impossible for it to do so ; it will be seen, moreover, that 
I had a license and passport to leave the seat of government and traverse terri- 
tories and seas to a foreign country. Was it because the government conceived 
it necessary to intrust to me some commission of national utility 1 It will be 
.seen that I had no employment at Chihuahua, nor when I quitted that place. 
Was it because the government had not received my letter ? It is proven that 
the letter was received, as well by the testimony of Seiior Prieto as by that of 
numbers of other respectable citizens of Chihuahua. Was it because there was 
lacking in me aptitude, representative ability, or national confidence? Possibly 
I may have been wanting in the first, and confess it ingenuously and in all 
modesty, but perchance the deficiency was not perceived when states, governors, 
and the people have honored me with evidences of their confidence in my rep- 
resentative ability. 

There can be wanting neither representative ability nor national confidence in 
a man who has been elected deputy to the constituent congress of Zacatecas 
and the federal union ; to one who has acted officially as minister of war ; to 
one who has been elected, by popular suffrage, governor of one of the principal 
States of the republic; to one upon whom has been bestowed, by the General 
Don Santos Degollado, the most ample functions for the military command of 
the States of San Luis Potwsi, Durango, Aguas Calientes, and Zacatecas; to one 
who, a little while thereafter, had been appointed general-in-chief of the federal 
army of the republic, and charged with extraordinary powers for finance and 
war ; to one to whom we are indebted for the definite triumph of reform and 
legal order; to one who has received, during this emergency, the military com- 
mand of the States of San Luis, Aguas Calientes, Zacatecas, and Tamaulipas, 
with extraordinary powers for war and finance in the three last, together with 
every branch of administration for the government of the former ; to one unto 
whom has been confided the command-in-chief of the army of the east, and 
invested with the full authority necessary to govern the States of Puebla, Vera 
Cruz, and Tlaxcala; to one to whom the popular vote has conferred the presi- 
dency of the supreme court of justice; to one upon whom the popular voice has 
concentrated as among the candidates for the presidency of the republic. No ; 
against a man who has been intrusted with all these dignities cannot be charged 
lack of representative ability or national confidence — which cannot rationally be 
expected in a stranger who holds in this country neither position nor family, 
and to whom the welfare of Mexico is a matter of perfect indifference. 

It was during September that I prepared to leave New York for Mexico, 
when I was detained by an order for my arrest upon civil process, as was noted 
by the newspapers at the time. 

I believed that the order would have been disposed of briefly on account of 
the manifest injustice of the claim, which was decided afterwards as unjust ac- 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 417 

cording to the legislation of this country. I pressed the matter forward, but it 
was retarded by the intricacies of the law, exerted to my disadvantage. The 
hand of intrigue put in motion all the springs to obtain that object, assisted by 
that of treason. All concluded, finally, through the honesty and impartiality 
of the judges, who dismissed the complaint on the 3d day of November, when 
the order was revoked. The latest letters received in New York from El Paso 
del Norte intimated that the government was to remove to the frontier post of 
Piedras Negras. Thither I proceeded, and there received notice that Senor 
Juarez had retrograded to Chihuahua, as the French had evacuated that city. 
At the same time I received some vague intelligence concerning the decrees and 
circulars of the 8th of November. 

While in Piedras Negras I addressed a letter to Don Andreas S. Viezca, 
invited him to an interview, and awaited his coming upon this side of the river, 
at Eagle Pass. Senor Viezca was a chivalric, honorable, and intelligent man, 
and, I believe it useless to add, appointed governor and military commander of 
the State of Coahuila by Don Benito Juarez, by virtue of the extraordinary 
powers conferred upon him. 

Senor Viezca presented himself at the conference, and alluded to the circular 
and decrees I have mentioned, and desired to learn, in his official capacity, 
which he held on behalf of the nation, in what light I regarded the circular and 
decrees of the Sth of November. I replied that for my part I did not come to 
disturb public order ; that I travelled alone and incognito, having refused the 
forces tendered me by my friends, as well as the use of orders and recommenda- 
tions from most distinguished persons in the United States, who had offered me 
an escort while upon American territory; that I desired Mexico to regard an 
exhibition of this nature as a testimony of its political advancement in the repub- 
lican system ; that I would present myself with no other forces than my own 
support; without other title than that given by the law; and trusted that Senor 
Juarez would deliver over to me the supreme power, for no other reasons than 
those assigned by the provisions imposed upon him by that same law. 

To the honor of Mexico be it said that it had already witnessed a spectacle of 
this character when a victorious army, flushed with success, called Don Benito 
Juarez, president of the supreme court of justice, to the presidential chair, 
which he acquired through no other title than that given him by the law, the 
same as the republic confers upon other citizens. Senor Viezca stated to me 
that he had no desire to enter upon an official conference, neither would he touch 
upon the question of legality; he would only say to me that he had received an 
order, decree, or circular, to warrant my arrest, which had, as he said, been 
issued by the government of Don Benito Juarez within appropriate time — that 
is to say, during the month of November; that he was disposed to obey the 
summons and to make the arrest. His secretary added, "not only to make the 
arrest, but to cause me to be shot." 

I replied to Senor Viezca that it was necessary to terminate, in a decorous 
and dignified manner, a question so deeply affecting the interests of Mexico ; 
that it was requisite that he should allow me to pass through the State he 
governed, thence to travel to Chihuahua, with the aim of seeking an interview 
with Benito Juarez, so that I might demonstrate to him by word of mouth the 
evils which he would cause the nation, should he persist in the course he had 
taken, or whether he could not remedy the error he had committed. I told him, 
finally, that if he would assume the responsibility of the step I indicated, I 
would cross the river and place myself within the State of Coahuila, and not 
upon foreign territory, where he would be at liberty to arrest me, dispose of my 
person, or take me prisoner to Chihuahua, so that I might demonstrate to the 
nation that I comprehend my duty and would comply with it. 

Senor Viezca refused to accede to my proposition, but indicated to me that I 
might pass through Chihuahua by the plains of Texas. 
27 Mex. 



418 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

In fact, there had been issued an order, decree, or circular by the government, 
the exact form of which, had escaped me, but whose contents I remember, author- 
iz'ng the arrest of those sojourning in a foreign land without special leave from 
the government, and those who were livi?ig abroad by leave from said govern- 
ment given to traverse the foreign territories. This order, decree, or circular had 
for its object my person, and, although unjust, it was legal on a certain point, for 
the convenience of the government de facto, but at the same time general. A 
multitude of leaders and officials had previously abandoned the government in 
Chihuahua after rendering long services, without resources, but with hearts filled 
with faith, at the advance of the French troops towards that city, which they 
deserted to go across foreign territory, and thence to return to the country to 
continue the struggle for independence. Others had suffered privations on the 
frontiers of Mexico, after fighting with bravery; others again went involuntarily 
into foreign countries, cither to cure their wounds or to gather fresh strength to 
continue in the struggle for our liberty. 

With ample concurrence of the government, many of the most influential men 
of the country had gone to foreign territories ; notably, General Don Placido 
Vega, who held a commission, I believe; General Don Pedro Ogazon, General 
Don Manuel Doblado, General Don Felipe B. Berriozabal, who extorted a pass- 
port to reside in a foreign country, and many others of more or Jess influence, 
some with passports and others expelled, or forced out by the government. A 
general who had lost his army, raised by his individual efforts, and could have 
raised more had he not been beneath the ban of the government, did not declare 
that he went forth to engross the files of treason, neither was he exiled to a for- 
eign land, but forced thither by more efficacious means. In place of giving him 
troops, for the government had none, or the means of raising and organizing 
them, it placed him in a humiliating and undignified position, to which the gov- 
ernment contributed from its seat, successfully erected in city after city. This 
conduct resulted in weak men, without restraint upon their passions, augment- 
ing the catalogue of traitors, both as military men and politicians, while others 
of the refugees went forth into foreign lands, protesting to the thinking world 
against the invaders of their country, and against the government, whose imbe- 
cility rendered it responsible for these shameful disorders. 

I had frequently spoken to Seiior Juarez as to the bad impression caused by 
this exode of influential persons, and prayed him to put a stop to it in the most 
determined manner. At that time General Doblado and Colonel Rincon Gallardo, 
both governors of the State of Guanajuato, quitted Monterey. But he did not 
decree at that time against the evil, as he has now done, when his object is to 
entrap my person. 

Placing my hand upon my heart I have inscribed this manifesto, and have 
asked myself many times, has it not been done for the best interests of Mexico, 
my place of nativity, the receptacle of the ashes of my forefathers, wherein is 
preserved all I hold most dear and sacred, memory of my past and present, and 
are not my conclusions justifiable ? My conscience answers in the affirmative. 
I have defended the government of Juarez with the loyalty of a gentleman, with 
my sword and my voice, for six or seven years; I have sanctioned it with my 
signature; I reverenced it as that of my native land, while loyally supporting 
the standard of the law, the palladium of public rights ; but I do not honor those 
who make a burlesque of their fellow-citizens, who break through the obliga- 
tions of their oaths, who betray the law, be they called either Comonfort or 
Juarez. I neither honor, nor will I ever honor, those who dishonor my country, 
who have made it a scoff to the world, asserting through example that Mexico 
has no laws which cannot be trampled down at t e will of a mandarin, although 
at this very time Mexico is deluged with the blood of her children, in defence 
of the banner of law and order. 

I have been one of the chieftains of the people. I have raised thousands of 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 419 

men to go forth and battle for the principle of legal order against one of the 
most powerful nations of the earth ; I have seen the blood of my countrymen 
wet the soil of their birth ; I have seen the resting-places of the dead desecrated, 
our towns and cities pillaged and burned, and all this in defence of that principle. 
I have, therefore, a double duty which my conscience dictates, in view of these 
numerous and sanguinary sacrifices. 

I have not heaped upon the government useless or unnecessary charges, dic- 
tated by a personal sentiment. The public is my judge, before whom my writings 
will be exposed, when the heat and anger of passion have passed away. I have 
defended law and order because it was my duty; if others have been remiss in 
their duty, it has been no crime of mine to remain silent. I have defended my 
person, not as an indivdual, but as an officer charged by the public will with 
the salvation of a principle. I have retraced at length the errors committed by 
the government, and for its personal motives, but not until that government has 
consummated an official act which tends to destroy the law in the place of pre- 
serving it. I have protested against this act, that the people shall learn the 
errors of past and present government, so as to draw their conclusions from ex- 
perience gained by the nation during a brief but melancholy apprenticeship. 

I have no desire to tarnish the glory of my country. Glory, indeed, belongs 
to a nation which has maintained a four years' struggle with a powerful enemy, 
who has used every endeavor to divide its defenders and maintain a ceaseless 
combat. Glory, indeed, belongs to a nation, not one of whose States, towns, or 
cities has given adherence to intervention unless beneath presence of foreign 
bayonets. Glory, indeed, to a nation who has preserved its cities, ever open to 
the access of the authorities, even if they do not come at the cannon's mouth, 
but in the name of the law. Glory to a nation who, having lost its army, with- 
out moneys, stores, or material, improvises bands after bands to rally around the 
standard of independence- — of heroes, born with the emergency, springing from 
the bosom of the people and willing to lay down their lives in a martyrdom for 
liberty. 

Neither have I tarnished the glory of Senor Juarez, who has himself destroyed 
it, and with it his previous good fame. His glory was that of a governor who 
should have placed himself at the head of his legions to show to his fellow-citi- 
zens, by his own example, how to defend the independence of the country or 
perish in the attempt. 

But he exercised no judiciousness in the selection of persons, for we have seen 
generals in a foreign land, who had served loyally and patriotically, remain 
without their services being rendered useful to the country, as well as those who 
had filled high official positions. We have seen governors, who had faithfully 
performed the functions of their office, superseded by others of his creation; 
moreover, we have seen generals, ministers, and governors, named by him, de- 
serting to the cause of treason. The glory of Benito Juarez was derived from 
the democracy, which ever progresses with reform and liberty — from that govern- 
ment of the people which takes the law as its guarantee. 

If, then, Senor Juarez has tarnished his own glory by following in the foot- 
steps of men travelling on the wrong road before him, I am not the only Mexican 
who has involuntarily obeyed the instinct of duty and narrated that which the 
government has done by its own acts. Nevertheless, the glory of Mexico re- 
mains immaculate, for it cannot be stained by the errors of a man, nor decried 
by the intrigues of others. 

Mexicans, I believe that I have fulfilled the obligations I contracted with 
you. I believe I have done so during this solemn trial of the country, when 
prudence should dictate conciliation with those remedies required to rectify in- 
fraction of the law. 

Fellow-citizens, believe me I speak from my heart. If the salvation of our 
common country demands as a sacrifice on my part that I shall never again tread 



420 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

the blooming turf of my native laud, nor breathe the balmy air of its sunny 
clime, and no longer defend in your midst our nation's banner, cheerfully will I 
submit to the sacrifice, and seek a death-spot in some foreign land. But if, on 
the contrary, you believe that the cause of law and order has need of my pres- 
ence as a rallying point, if you believe that my coming to Mexico will dissipate 
the evil consequences inflicted upon it by the government, I am yours through 
the convictions of honor and duty. Act with circumspection, and whatever you 
do, let it be to reclaim the honor of Mexico, and you will work out its salvation. 

JESUS G-. ORTEGA. 
San Antonio de Bexar, December 26, 1865. 



[Enclosure No. 2. — From the official paper of the constitutional government of the Mexican 
republic, Paso del Norte, May 10, 1866.] 

DEPARTMENT OF FOREIGN RELATIONS AND GOVERNMENT GOVERNMENT 

BRANCH — SECTION FIRST. 

Circular. 

On account of the decrees communicated to you on the 8th November last, 
one in relation to the extension of the term of office of the President, agreeably 
to the spirit and letter of the provisions of the constitution, as long as war pre- 
vents a new election, and the other touching the responsibilities of General 
Jesus Gonzalez Ortega, he has addressed a protest to the undersigned and a 
manifest to the nation. The protest is dated at Eagle Pass, in the State of 
Texas, the 21st of December, and the manifest is published at San Antonio, 
Texas, in the United States of America, on the 26th of the same month. General 
Ortega was living in that country at the time, and had been there for a year, 
without a commission or license from the government, while all good citizens of 
the republic were fighting for its independence and its institutions against foreign 
invasion. I have not received the. protest, but have seen printed copies of it 
and the manifest in the hands of private individuals. I will not wait to receive 
the protest in order to notice it, for, in October, 1863, General Comonfort, then 
minister of war in San Luis Potosi, wishing to correct some errors in a printed 
document published as an official report of military operations at Pnebla, waited 
some days, during which time he was killed by the enemy, and the despatch was 
published some time after by General Ortega, in Zacatecas, addressed to the 
minister of war, and it was never received by the government. 

General Ortega could not refute the principles of the decree and accompanying 
circular in his protest and manifest. He pretended they were not worth no- 
ticing, and only said he wanted "to give the nation the sense of, and a com- 
mentary upon, our constitutional law ;" and added: "Whenever legal princi- 
ples and solid reasons are wanting, we must use any other arguments to support 
our cause." General Ortega certainly did not wish to examine the subject logi- 
cally ; he only wanted to evade investigation, and he pretended to assert that 
the legal principles and precepts of the constitution were at variance with our 
constitutional law. 

Avoiding a proper discussion of the subject, he continued : " I now have to 
treat of facts alone." That means he perverted the precepts of the constitution, 
invented precepts it did not contain ; concealed some facts and distorted others, 
inventing many, so that his manifest might appear a plusible document, satis- 
factory to his revenge, when, in fact, it is an infamous libel, full of calumny and 
vituperation. 

The sole object of this circular is to correct what General Ortega said about 
public acts, which he misrepresented ; and from it may be gathered what he 
would write in his manifest, which most probably is also a gross libel on private 
acts and intentions. The government ought not to descend to such a level, and 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 421 

Ortega has disgraced himself by the condescension. He said he would not con- 
test the principles of the decrees, but would adhere to facts ; yet, knowing this 
would satisfy nobody, he pretended to controvert, indirectly, a few of the pre- 
cepts in his manifest, but did not allude to the first decree. 

On the 30th of November, 1864, General Ortega, then in Chihuahua, de- 
' manded the government of the President. He alleged that, in case of an extra 
election, article SO of the constitution said: "The President will perform his 
functions until the last day of November of the fourth year from the time of 
his election." According to that, a President elected in 1861, and taking his 
seat on the 15th of July of that year, Ortega seems to think that 1S64 will 
make the fourth year after the election. 

Among other arguments used to him at that time, I told him, that as a year 
could not follow itself, it was evident that 1S62 was the year to follow 1S61, 
and 1864 could not be the fourth following, but the third, so that the presiden- 
tial term would close on the 30th of November, 1865, by the literal tenor of 
article 80 of the constitution. 

General Ortega quoted the same words in his manifest as a contradiction to 
the government when it extended the presidential term. Without contesting 
the motives for this, he tries to make the declaration of the presidential term 
and its continuation as opposed in principle to each other, when he does not 
regard the difference of circumstances — that war prevented a constitutional 
election. 

The simple meaning of the words refutes his argument. The extension of 
the presidential term was beyond the ordinary close of it ; presuming, of course, 
an official ending, otherwise the functions could not be prolonged. The decree 
of the 30th of November, 1864, stating the duration of the office, so far from 
prohibiting an extension of the term of office, provided for the case in which it 
would be necessary and expedient. In the decree it was expressly stated, 
"that the powers and authority of the President were extended beyond the con- 
stitutional term, till another could be elected, or as long as the situation caused 
by the foreign war prevented an election." I explained in the decree why the 
extension of office was necessary ; then it was to be determined what was to be 
the time of office. The government could not anticipate events of war, and so 
could fix no time for a new presidential election ; and I therefore declared the 
government reserved its opinion in regard to extension, " because the time for 
elections had not arrived, nor could it be seen when the war would allow elec- 
tions, and so the decree was proper and legal, by the letter and spirit of our in- 
stitutions." 

General Ortega said all he could against the acts of the government, to de- 
ceive those who had not read the resolution of the 30th November, 1864, and 
the decree of the 8th November, L865 ; but he cannot deceive the intelligent, 
who readily perceive the spirit of his manifest. 

He knew from the first why the presidential term was prolonged, and did not 
pretend to protest at the time, nor make a single objection to it ; neither did he 
demand the reins of government on that occasion ; on the contrary, when he 
did petition for power, he knew the opinion of the government in regard to the 
close of the presidential term, and he promised to abide by the decision it made. 
It is thus shown that his petition was a mere form to save himself from respon- 
sibility. 

He afterwards said the time was out already, and the President had not an- 
other year to serve, and he quoted several articles of the constitution to support 
his assertion, saying, " our political pact has fixed it in very clear precepts," 
and added : " As the president of the supreme court of justice is elected by the 
people, the only source of authority among us, he is the person to succeed the 
chief magistrate in the exercise of his thorny and difficult duties, in case he is 
in default ; and he also says, to fulfil this honorable duty, he would wait till the 
1st of December, if other reasons did not compel him to speak before that day." 



422 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

The other reasons considered at that time hy General Ortega as above the 
plain precepts of the constitution, and the duty imposed upon him by his honor, 
the law and the national vote, were to remove all cause of discord, " to re- 
move ills that might happen to the dishonor of the country, under existing cir- 
cumstances, and to secure power, if possible, in the hands of him who had the 
right to exercise it." Considering the reverses and misfortunes of the repub- 
lic, General Ortega's last thought is found in his communication, where he says : 

" If Mexico must fall in her struggle with France and a few discontented 
sons, let her fall decently, shrouded in her flag, and not leave a trace of suspi- 
cion that her fall was caused by discord among the defenders of her rights." 

In November, 1864, after the Majoma disaster, the government had to move 
to Chihuahua, because intervention seemed successful almost everywhere. There 
was yet no opposition made to it abroad ; and at home, many began to think 
they would be obliged to submit to it. 

In December, 1865, those of little faith began to have hopes of the republic. 
The civil war in the United States was over; and that war was the real origin 
of intervention. It was seen at home that intervention could not last long, be- 
cause it was hated by all good Mexicans, even those who had pretended to ad- 
here to it. The struggles of the last year had encouraged the faint-hearted, 
and the number of the heroic defenders of the republic had greatly increased. 

In November, 1864, General Ortega did not protest against the design of 
prolonging the presidential term, which was made known to him. He said, at 
the time, that the reins of government ought to be given up to him, but he 
would not resist if it was decided he could not hold the supreme power. He 
said the law, the national vote, and duty, were in his favor, but he would not 
insist, because it might bring discord into the republican ranks. Thus he 
spoke to the President, who, he said, " was a man that had honorably fulfilled 
the precepts of the law." 

He next declared that he wished to battle in the interior of the republic, and 
asked to go inland, by sea, through a foreign country. Permission was given 
him to pass through a foreign country. He accepted it and left. Once out of 
the republic, he remained abroad without leave or commission. 

In December, 1865, General Ortega crossed the Mexican border and pub- 
lished his calumniating protest and manifest against the government. He re- 
mained two months in the United States, till he found the defenders of the repub- 
lic did not intend to support him, and then he went to New York to reside. He 
had already resided there one year, without leave or commission, after resigning 
his place as president of the supreme court of justice, giving up his rank as 
general, and deserting his flag and the cause of the republic. It was then 
decreed, the 8th November, that he would be subject to trial by court-martial 
when he returned to Mexico. 

General Ortega does not pretend to deny that he was away without leave, 
but he excuses himself, he says, in a private letter to the President, the 8th May, 
1865, asking for some commission abroad. 

He says he sent the letter by a person who lived in Chihuahua, and got two 
answers, one in August and one by the following mail, from the bearer of the 
letter, the first answer encouraging him to expect some commission abroad, and 
the next informing him he would get nothing. General Ortega well knew the 
government would give him no commission abroad, because he was presiden t of 
the supreme court, and might succeed to the presidency, and ought to be at 
home. He was permitted to pass through a foreign country, but not to reside 
in it, and he knew the government was well represented abroad. 

What he says in his manifest about mail delays may be true, for the govern- 
ment was very busy at that time, on account of General Negrete's defeat in 
Coahuila, New Leon, and Tamaulipas. Brincourt was advancing on Chihuahua 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 423 

with a large force, and it was necessary to watch his movements in that quar- 
ter. 

The President had to leave Chihnahna on the 5th August for Paso del Norte, 
and as soon as he reached there he wrote to General Ortega. This was on the 
7th Septembpr. He did not write sooner because business prevented, and he 
did so then from mere civility, for the proper answer to his letter of the Sth May 
was given by its bearer. 

General Ortega denies having received the President's answer, but says he 
heard from him by the bearer of his letter. His only excuse for remaining 
away is in his said letter, where he asks for a commission to allow him to re- 
main abroad. He knew very well he could not obtain such a commission, 
and he ought to have known his duty better than to allege such excuses. The 
petition was in a private letter, and he says he did not think it necessary to 
write officially, though he did so when asking leave of absence from the re- 
public. 

This is one of the many contradictions in his manifest. In another place he 
says the government is prejudiced against him, and wanted to turn him out of 
his place of chief justice ; that all sorts of opposition was made to his advance- 
ment. One of these is his commission, given the 30th December, 1864, to fight 
the enemy in the interior of the republic. In fact, he was granted more than he 
asked ; permission was given to him, as chief justice and general, to quit the 
country and raise forces for the defence of the good cause. It was stipulated . 
he should act with the legitimate authorities, and not independently, as was 
right and customary, and he did not seem to object to it. The general continues 
his cumulation of complaints in his manifest. He says : " The government 
prohibited me from defending the nation. How could I raise forces ? Where 
could I get them ? "What means had I ? Yet I did not despair, but I waited." 

Did he think to defend the national cause by leaving the country and asking 
permission to reside abroad ? If he was not satisfied with his instructions, why 
did he not ask a modification of them 1 But he goes off, and then pretends he 
did not understand them. 

General Ortega gives two meanings to the commission of 30th December, 
1S64 : one is, he is to fight the enemy inland ; the other, he is to do it by passing 
through a foreign country. He requested both, and his subsequent actions show 
which one he intended to adopt. He explains this in his manifest. "What he 
wanted was, to be paid to stay out of the country till the war was over. This 
is evident from his letter of the Sth May to the President. 

What he says of prejudice against him cannot be true, since all these favors 
were granted him by the government. If he thought so, as he says, he cer- 
tainly would not have written the said letter. 

As to the decree that he should be judged by the proper laws on his return 
to the republic, he says the President has no power to issue such a decree. But 
the congress conferred upon the President full powers to do whatever congress 
itself could do ; therefore he has power to determine the responsibility of public 
functionaries and their duties. 

In General Ortega's case the government has acted according to the provi- 
sions of the constitution. By article 105, congress has the right to depose the 
chief justice and have him tried for misdemeanor by a competent court. The 
government did not declare Ortega guilty ; only it said he should be tried, if he 
returned. About his staying abroad, the government only said just what con- 
gress might have said by article 104 of the constitution, that he was amenable 
to the laws of his country for staying away without leave ; but did not judge 
him and sentence him, as he has asserted. 

The only restriction congress put upon the executive, when endowing him 
with full power, was to forbid any contravention of the constitution. This was 
to prevent any irregular proceeding against any public functionary. The gov- 



424 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

erument could no more violate the articles of the constitution than congress 
could, and in this case no provision of the constitution is violated. 

It would be an inconceivable absurdity to suppose that congress should leave 
public functionaries unpunished during the war, when the consequences of their 
offences might be very serious. It would be ridiculous to permit traitors to re- 
tain their offices, men who leave their country to enemies, when it was their most 
sacred duty to defend it. If so, the government would have failed to punish 
Santiago Vidaurri for treason, and would have respected many others who have 
abandoned their country's cause. 

Another of General Ortega's pleas for defence is, that only congress has the 
right to depose a chief justice. He says he never resigned his place, and was. 
not removed by congress ; consequently, he still holds it. 

One more excuse of General Ortega was, that the places of chief justice and 
governor of Zacatecas were inconsistent, and in that case he preferred to be 
governor, and resigned the judgeship in San Luis Potosi. This incompatibility 
of positions is explained in the resolution of the 30 th November, 1864, which 
was published in Chihuahua, and afterwards repeated in the decrees of the 8th 
of November, 1S65. 

By article 118 of the constitution no man can hold two elective offices at the 
same time, but must say which he will fill; this I stated in the decree. I also 
said, that though federal offices were meant, the article applied to State offices 
too. 

General Ortega, with the untruthfulness that prevails throughout his manifest, 
said, that, to apply the incompatibility to his case, "resort was had to constitu- 
tions not now in force." Just the contrary was alleged in the resolution and 
circular quoted. I said it was necessary to accept the federal office, and not the 
State office, when elected to both, according to the old constitution. As former 
constitutions must have been consulted when the new one was formed, the defects 
of old ones were avoided in the latter. In July, 1863, when Ortega was gov- 
ernor of Zacatecas, he resigned the judgeship, but was informed by the govern- 
ment he could not do it consistently. He was told that war would prevent a 
new election ; and if he resigned, there would be no one to succeed the President, 
in case of his default. He was told, if he wanted to be governor of Zacatecas, 
he must be so by appointment, and still hold the judgeship. 

From July to December, 1863, General Ortega was often written to on the 
subject, yet he continued to act as governor of Zacatecas without appointment, 
and did not even answer the letters. The same was insisted on in the resolution 
of 30th November, 1864, and he has never noticed it officially. In that resolu- 
tion Ortega was declared to be chief justice, for reasons and by authorities above 
stated. Now he says there was no need of it. He says in his manifest he had 
often before filled two offices and no mention was made of incompatibility, and 
quoted authorities that proved nothing. He was appointed judge in 1861, till 
a new election could be held, and acted as governor of Zacatecas at the same 
time; but that proves nothing in his favor, for only one office was elective. He 
also says he was governor of San Luis and military commander of Aguas Oa- 
lientes and Tamaulipas at the same time. But these were not elective offices, 
only temporary appointments by the government. 

In 1862, after General Zaragoza's death, he was elected chief justice, and the 
government made him commander of the army in Puebla and governor of that 
State. He mentions this also in his manifest, but he does not see that all his 
offices, except that of judge, were by appointment, and only temporary, of course. 
At this point we note another of the many contradictions of the manifest. 
He tried to make others believe that the only reason the government had to 
object to his holding two offices was its opposition to his advancement. Among 
all the imputations adduced in the manifest is one that the President wrote from 
San Luis to Severo Cosio, telling him to continue as governor of that State, 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. ' 425 

instead of Ortega. The latter wants to make an intrigue appear from this 
natural act, when Cosio himself wants to refuse the honor offered him. Accord- 
ing to common report, Ortega did nothing for the good of the country while in 
Zacatecas, but rather acted against the interests of the government. For that 
reason mauy thought it would be better to-make Zamora governor, as he had 
once been constitutional governor of that State ; but it is absolutely false, as 
Ortega states, that commissioners were seut there to investigate his conduct 
with a view to his removal. On the contrary, the government thought Ortega 
would do what he could for the general good while in Zacatecas. There were 
many other good citizens there at that time who could have filled the place as 
well as Ortega. When he accused the government of wanting to dismiss him 
from the judgeship, it was trying to induce him to retain it by appointing him 
governor of Zacatecas. Wishing to avoid all misunderstanding, it offered to do 
so in the resolution of 30th November, 1S64, and he made no reply, because he 
could not. 

The fact is, he had private business in Zacatecas, which became very public 
soon, and his secret designs were t*> oppose the wishes of the government. In 
reference to what is called a decree, but was nothing more than a convocation 
of magistrates, he said : "They wanted to abolish the elective office of supreme 
judge and fill the place by appointment, and thus give Juarez the power of re- 
moval whenever he pleased. .Such have been the aims of the government ever 
since it left San Luis ; and so he convened the judges forming the supreme court 
by a decree issued in New Leon and Ooahuila, for that purpose. I was then 
commanding a division against the French in the interior of the republic. The 
sole, object of that meeting was to have a president of the supreme court ap- 
pointed by Juarez, and subject to his removal." 

To show that Ortega is mistaken in his understanding of the writ, which he 
calls a decree, it is hereto annexed, No. 1, and was issued at Monterey on the 10th 
of July, 1864, and published in the official paper of that date. 

It is not true that the publication was made while the government was in the 
States of New Leon and Coahuila. Ortega said that, to make believe the gov- 
ernment was busied about him, when it only reached Saltillo on the 9th of Jan- 
uary, Monterey the 2d of April, and the publication was not made till the 10th 
of July. Neither is it true he was with his forces, fighting the French inland. 
He said that to make one think he was rendering good services to his country, 
and that the government was trying to injure him while absent defending it. 
On the contrary, the same paper shows that he arrived at Parras on the 6th of 
July; on the 30th of June he was at Viezca, and a few days after the publica- 
tion of the circular he arrived in Monterey. He left Zacatecas without a fight, 
passed through Duraugo without offering aid to its chief town, then in a state 
of siege, and came directly to the site of the government. 

Neither is it true that the circular refers to Ortega ; its object was to revoke 
the permission given to the judges in San Luis on the 18th of December, 1863, 
to elect a domicile till the capital should be fixed and permanent, and fill vacan- 
cies till another election could be held. 

Before and after the circular Ortega's situation was the same as it was when 
he was in San Luis, when he wished to resign the position as president of the 
court and become governor of Zacatecas. 

In fact, his manifest is full of inaccuracies, which his heated imagination 
conjures up to blame the government, but not to be believed by any person ot 
common sense. One of these is accusing the government of complicity in 
Uraga's treason. Why he did this, no one can understand. The army that 
Uraga commanded was the same that had been in Queretaro and the vicinity, 
from June to November, 1S63. It had been raised and supported by the gov- 
ernment with means in its power. As all the States where this army operated 
were in siege, they were naturally under the direct orders of the government. 



426 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

Even if the government were prejudiced against those States, as Ortega asserts, 
why should it betray them to the enemy 1 And he dares to say the government 
favored Uraga's treason. This assertion is too absurd to need refutation. And 
he says Berriozabal and he warned the government that Uraga was going over 
to the enemy, and no measures were taken to prevent it. He says of Berriozabal : 
"He sent an official communication, very respectful, but in energetic language, 
requesting the publication of documents that would convict himself or Uraga." 
All this is false ; General Berriozabal never said any such thing. The truth 
of this may be found in the official paper of the 15th June, 1864. 

The government was informed of Uraga's intended treachery long before 
Berriozabal's case, and Ortega's insinuation. He was too far from the seat of 
government to prevent his defection. The government did all it could to pre- 
vent it, and did save much of the army that intended to go over with Uraga. 

Ortega says : " Information of Uraga's intended treason was sent to the gov- 
ernment by the patriot General Arteaga." That is true : he sent a special 
messenger with the report from Monterey, on the 2d July, 1S64, and Arteaga 
was placed in Uraga's position, where he continued to fight ten months, till he 
was killed, while Ortega was living in peace abroad. 

It would require a volume to contain all the falsehoods in Ortega's manifest. 
General Arteaga's commissioner arrived at the time of Berriozabal's trial, on 
the 11th of June, when Ortega's letter came. The government then issued 
the decree of the 1st July, deposing Uraga and putting Arteaga in his place, 
and it was published the 27th July in the official paper. 

Ortega came to Monterey in July and learned all about it ; and yet he makes 
another vile assertion that the government would not listen to his insinuations 
against Uraga. This is another proof of the spirit in which the manifest was 
written, and how much its assertions are worth. He says when he went from 
San Luis to Zacatecas to raise troops, the government sent secret agents to 
frustrate his plans. If he had given the true title of these agents, as he called 
them, his prevarication would have been too patent. These two agents were 
the district judge and the collector of taxes, and they had nothing to do with 
Ortega. He made no objection to the judge, but he would not let the tax col- 
lector act; we don't know for what reason. 

While the government was in San Luis, from December to July, 1863, many 
public and private notes were addressed to Ortega, but he did not condescend 
to notice any of them, as was his custom. Once he sent two commissioners to 
San Luis to ask the tax collector to be removed, so he could use the funds of 
the State for national defence. This was only to gain time, like his letter from 
New York, in May, 1865. The government, of course, refused his request, 
yet he continued to use the public funds. He insists that the government 
acted against him, when it was he who opposed the government, in open viola- 
tion of law. He makes bold to say the government told his commissioners it 
needed no more soldiei'3, so as to have an excuse to refuse his petition. This 
is not so. He said he told his commissioners to inform the government he would 
forward the sums it wanted, if his requests were granted. I had no interview 
with his commissioners, so I could not tell what they wanted; but I know 
Ortega continued to use the State funds for his own purposes, in direct viola- 
tion of law, and contrary to express orders. The government might have con- 
sented to his proposal, but it did not believe in him, and it has never had an ac- 
count of the money he used. It was well known in Zacatecas what use he put 
the money to, and that not one dollar was used to raise forces. Months thus 
passed, and he had collected no men in Zacatecas, till the French came upon 
him in the beginning of 1864, when he was suddenly compelled to raise a small 
force ; and he says, in a boasting way, " in one or two months I raised, equipped 
and armed a complete division !" The boasting general left the State of Zaca- 
tecas a few months after, without fighting a single battle. 






CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 427 

I have already mentioned that the capital of Durango was besieged when he 
passed through that State, and he offered no assistance. General Patoni, gov- 
ernor of that State, after duty in Chihuahua, was returning to Durango, then 
held by Mascarcnas in his absence, when he heard that 2,000 French were 
corning to attack it. Ortega, then at Saucillo, wrote to Mascarenas on the 11th 
July, 1S64, as follows: "I am told you intend to evacuate the city. I beg of 
you not to do it; I will answer for it with my head. I have 3,000 men and 
sixteen pieces of artillery with me." With this force, if his account is not . 
exaggerated, he could have given great assistance to Durango. He knew the 
enemy in Zacatecas and Fresnillo could not be re-enforced from Mexico, and 
their garrisons were too small to move out ; but General Ortega set out for 
Viezca as soon as he made his offer, and arrived there the 30th June. He 
then went to Parras, in the State of Coahuila, and the French took unresisted 
possession of Durango about - the first of July. 

In 1864, while the government was at Saltillo, Ortega sent a commission 
there. This he mentions in his manifest, but does not say for what purpose it 
was sent. The object of this commission was to demand the reins of govern- 
ment. His reason for this, he said, was because the French refused to recog- 
nize Juarez or treat with him, and something should be done to save the country. 
Ortega's real object was to side with intervention if he could not have the gov- 
ernment in his own hands. Garcia de la Oadena was one of the commissioners. 
I had a private interview with him, and advised him to seize the government of 
Zacatecas the first time Ortega went out of the city, and promised him support, 
and to appoint him governor in fact. He refused, because he said it would 
produce civil war in the State. 

This story of Ortega has no more truth than his others. The government 
pardoned Cadena for acting in that embasay on account of his former good 
.services. What the government did in the case was this : it proposed to com- 
mission Cadena to act as governor in case Ortega should quit the State, as it 
was expected he would do, and which he did. Cadena refused, from his respect 
for Ortega, and said he thought it best to wait till the vacancy should occur, 
and not anticipate events. General Ortega's subsequent conduct shows how 
well founded were the government's suspicions ; but the government could not 
foresee that General Ortega Avould quit the republic voluntarily during war and 
remaiu abroad living in New York, with the title of president of the supreme 
court and governor of the State of Zacatecas. In the first of his manifest he 
makes two accusations against the undersigned, and of a personal nature, 
namely : it was not strange I had signed the decrees, because I had formerly 
been "one of the persons engaged in the Comonfort rebellion." Comonfort 
atoned for his mistake; he gave up the government to the president of the 
supreme court and took the field, where he fought and Avas defeated. He then 
left the country ; but when it was invaded he returned and bravely died in its 
defence. I did not aid Comonfort, but dissuaded him from his first plans. 
This is well known to all public men ; and the President of the republic was so 
well satisfied with my conduct he has several times called me into his cabinet. 
And congress, too, must have been satisfied with me, else I would not have 
been its president so often, as was the case on the 31st of May, 1863, at its last 
sessions. The second accusation was that I had issued the decrees, or signed 
them, " to show my power as minister." I had already been minister nine 
years, and the acts of its office were not novelties to me. The second time 
Comonfort offered me the ministry I refused it, and Ortega may learn from 
the papers of 1S61 that I have twice refused it under the present administra- 
tion. I accepted it in San Luis because I thought it my duty to do so under 
the trying circumstances that were afflicting the country. I refused it when 
peace and plenty prevailed. AVhile the government was at Santa Rosa, be- 
tween Monterey and Chihuahua, in the State of Durango, I put Ortega at the 



428 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

head of a division, and lie was badly defeated at Majoma. In his manifest he 
says he was placed in command of that division '' so it might be destroyed and 
he killed with it," and he adds that I was chiefly instrumental in his defeat. 

One of the reasons why we put him in command of those forces was because 
he had brought part of them from Zacatecas with him, and the government 
always favors those who try to do the most for it. The only regularly educated 
military man there at that time, of equal rank with Ortega, was General Negrete, 
then minister of war. He could not have been put in command, for there was 
a mortal enmity existing between him and Ortega. This was not mentioned in 
the manifest. Ortega wrote me some letters at that time, because he would 
have nothing to do with hiss enemy, the minister of war, and I was obliged to 
answer his letters. It is not true, as he reports, that he expressed a fear at the 
time of being defeated; he was confident of success. He was the first to pro- 
pose the expedition to Durango and Zacatecas. He was appointed to command 
at Santa Eosa the 4th September, 1864, and on the 8th he wrote to the Presi- 
dent as follows : " The enemy's advance is at Durango, and his rear is exposed 
for many leagues — as far as Zacatecas — supported by 200 men there, and 200 
more in Fresnillo, which we can attack with safety, as no aid can reach them 
from Durango unless the garrison is sent from there, and then that place falls 
into our hands. Our situation is good, and the interior of the republic is in 
motion on account of our advance, as I hear from Zacatecas." From this ex- 
pression of confidence the government hoped Ortega had changed for the better, 
and intrusted him with powers it had previously feared to grant, as commander 
in the States of Chihuahua, Durango, Zacatecas, Aguas Calientes, San Luis, and 
a part of Ooahuila. 

To give one more proof of the untruthfulness of all he says, I annex Nos. 2, 
3, and 4, documents from this department and of war, making him commander- 
in-chief of the forces in the States mentioned. These will show that he was 
not limited in action in any way, and that General Patoni was under him. He 
was defeated at Majoma the 21st of September. It would be unnecessary to tell 
of that disaster now. Ortega says his forces retired in good order from that 
fight and were disbanded the next day. 

As I said in the beginning of this circular, my sole object has been to correct 
what Ortega said about certain public and official acts. The government is in 
possession of all the facts necessary for his conviction when he is brought to 
trial. It seemed easy for him to bring up all sorts of imaginary imputations, 
though he did not see how fallacious they would appear at the first glance. 
After telling all sorts of frivolous stories and insinuating he had others in 
reserve, he exclaimed, " Would to God I could tell all I know ! then would my 
conduct be lauded, and that of Juarez and Lerdo dc Tejada be condemned." 
In regard to this affected reserve, the government is perfectly willing he should 
tell all he knows ; it is willing to let him talk till he thinks he has nothing 
more to say. 

He talked of everything in his mauifest except the principal subject on which 
it was written, namely the unconstitutionality of the decrees. Neither did he 
explain why he deserted his country and his flag in time of war, and took up his 
residence in a foreign country. 

It was absolutely necessary for the President to prolong his office to sustain 
the cause of independence against the invader, and it was of just as much im- 
portance to settle the question of Ortega's responsibility by another decree, so 
as to know who should succeed to the presidency in default. 

The President also justly thought proper not to trust the nation's destiny to 
the hands of an individual who had abandoned his country in its trouble, and 
left it to reside in a foreign land till war was over, when he hoped to return and 
rule over it. 

All those exercising authority in the name of the republic, and commanders ' 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 429 

of forces fighting for it, known to the government, have accepted the decrees, 
and have considered them proper and just. In spite of this, Ortega insists on 
calling them revolutionary acts. If they cause a revolution it will be very 
different from others ; they tend to preserve the country and secure its inde- 
pendence. The President has shown for several years that he has the energy 
and constancy necessary, in times of danger and sacrifice, to sustain the country, 
and does not wait like others for a good time, to attend to his personal interests. 
In 1861, as soon as the revolution was over, he called a convention of the people 
to elect a President. Now he says he will do the same, and all know he will 
keep his promise. The President will always submit to the will of the people. 

Independence and liberty! Paso del Norte, April 30, 1866. 

LERDO DE TEJADA. 

The Governor of the State of . 



DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE, FOMENTO, AND PUBLIC INSTRUCTION — SECTION FIRST. 

Circular. 

On the 18th of December, 1863, the magistrates composing the supreme court 
of justice were authorized to assemble in San Luis Potosi and elect a domicile 
till the supreme power was permanently located and could reorganize the court. 

In compliance, therefore, of the said decree, and considering the circumstances 
in each case, whether the magistrates were appointed or elected, the President 
decrees that Juan Jose de la Garza, Manuel Ruiz, and Florentino Mercado, the 
first and sixth judges, and attorney general, shall reside in this capital, to be 
ready for business, and Manuel Portugal, Jose S. Artega, Jose Garcia Ramirez, 
Pedro Ogazon, Manuel Z. Gomez, and Pedro Ordaz are the other judges. All 
absent ones must present themselves in this capital within one month from this 
date, or lose their office. Afterwards the supreme government will attend to the 
reconstruction of the court. 

And as you are one of those comprised in this decree, it is made known to 
you by supreme command, for your information and consequent action. 

Independence, liberty, and reform! Monterey, July 10, 1864. 

IGLESIAS, C. 



DEPARTMENT OF FOREIGN RELATIONS AND GOVERNMENT — GOVERNMENT 
BRANCH — SECTION FIRST. 

For the purpose of sustaining the war in defence of the national cause, and 
considering your well-known patriotism and services, the President of the re- 
public has been pleased, with the consent of the ministerial council, to grant 
you full powers to dispose of all the rents in the States of Aguas Oalientes and 
San Luis Potosi, of which you are governor and military commander, State 
taxes as well as public revenue, to raise means for army purposes, and to impose 
whatever taxes you may deem necessary, and to dispose of all the munitions of 
war, and all the forces that exist or may be raised in those States, whether of 
the national guard, regular army, or any other kind, together with all officers, 
civil and military, as you. may deem most proper. 

Independence, liberty, and reform ! Santa Rosa, September 4, 1864. 

LERDO DE TEJADA. 

Jesus Gonzalez Ortega, General of Division, 

and Chief of the First Army Corps of the West, Present. 



430 CONDITION OF AFFAIKS IN MEXICO. 



DEPARTMENT OF FOREIGN RELATIONS AND GOVERNMENT SECTION FIRST. 

The President of the republic having determined to appoint you general-in- 
chief of the first army corps of the west, and General Patoni as second, granting 
you ample powers in the States of Agnas Oalientes, Zacatecas, and San Luis Po- 
tosi, has been pleased to accord to you at the same time, in ministerial council, 
the command of Patoni's forces and of the States of Durango, Chihuahua, and 
in the district of Parras, in the State of. Coahuila, and to do as you please in 
those places with the troops under Patoni, or any others ; and this is done that 
there may be unity of action in the States of Zacatecas, Aguas Oalientes, San 
Luis Potosi, Durango, Chihuahua, and the district of Parras for the prosecution 
of the war and the defence of our independence and our institutions. 

Independence, liberty, and reform ! Santa Rosa, September 4, 1864. 

LERDO DE TEJADA. 

Jesus Gonzalez Ortega, 

Chief of the First Army Corps of the West, Present. 



DEPARTMENT OF FOREIGN RELATIONS AND GOVERNMENT SECTION FIRST. 

Taking into consideration that, on account of recent circumstances, the gov- 
ernor and military commander of the State of San Luis Potosi may have ceased 
to exercise the duties of his office, the President of the republic is pleased to 
authorize you to take charge of it as soon as you hear of its vacation, and ap- 
points ybu governor and military commander of the State, requesting you to 
give notice to the supreme government as soon as you begin your duties, that it 
may act in the premises. 

Independence, liberty, and reform! Santa Rosa, September 5, 1864. 

LERDO DE TEJADA. 

Jesus Gonzalez Ortega, 

Chief of the First Army Corps of the West, Present. 



[Enclosure No. 3.] 

DOCUMENTS RELATIVE TO THE COUP D'ETAT OF BENITO JUAREZ, EX- 
PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF MEXICO. 

A WORD TO THE MEXICAN PEOPLE. 

I publish the accompanying documents, believing them necessary to the end 
I contemplate. 

With me it is an established principle never to depart from the pathway my 
conscience and sense of honor dictate, no matter what adverse influences may 
be brought to bear upon me. 

I make this statement, actuated by no egotistical motives, but simply because 
I conceive that my native land, in the hour of her calamity, demands, and should 
receive, an explanation as to my future line of conduct. Silence under such 
circumstances would reveal a cowardly disposition, and, consequently, I feel 
myself compelled to give an exposition of my motives, even though I may incur 
the risk of reiterating statements to which I have alluded in a previous manifesto. 

I assure you that my course is shaped to compass no ignoble ends ; neither 
will I permit personal considerations to intervene in the discharge of my duty, 
for I shall suppress nothing which does not taint our national honor. 

A few months since I said to Sefior Viezca, while upon the frontiers of the 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 431 

United State.-? : " I do not come with a ridiculous desigu of overturning estab- 
lished order ; I have arrived, solitary and unrecognized, after having refused the 
physical force tendered me by my friends, so that I sball not be regarded as an 
element of disturbance. Should you yourself proffer me the strength of your 
State and your own influence to establish a government, I should decline the 
offer. My only object, at the present moment, is to visit Senor Juarez, to 
avert, if possible, the evils which be would inflict upon the country, and to in- 
quire of you your opinion as to his conduct." 

The man who acts in this wise takes as his guide the good of his country ; 
moreover, I give way to none, asking whether or not they would recognize a 
government of my establishing. 

A most easy task would it have been for me to create a new government in 
Mexico, possessed of more or less strength than that possessed by the one of 
Juarez. I say an easy task, inasmuch as Mexico is a nation faithful to and 
conscious of her rights, and I hold a legal title and a well-defined authority, 
derived directly from the Mexican people, which Senor Juarez does not. I 
have governed many of the interior States of the republic, commanded national 
armies, and my political influence has bestowed upon me the confidence of the 
people. Moreover, during my residence at San Antonio de Bexar, I have been 
personally visited by many leaders, among them generals of well-earned repute, 
soliciting my return to the republic to operate as a centre of legitimacy, and 
the salvation of our independence. I have, furthermore, received letters from 
officers, commanding armies in the field, actuated only to secure the safety of 
our principles, inviting my return to the republic, which documents I do not 
employ, as they were of a confidential nature. 

The task was, furthermore, easy, inasmuch as I had witnessed the reprobation 
following this violation of the law by Senor Juarez, not alone from persons oc- 
cupying high positions in Chihuahua, which State was the official residence of 
that gentleman, but from the members of the legislature of that same State, as I 
have ample evidence to demonstrate, did it not involve a breach of confidence 
in giving private letters to the light. One of the members of that legislature, 
of the highest social and political standing, came to me as a commissioner, after 
a travel of a hundred leagues, for the express purpose of invoking my return, as 
soon as it became apparent that Senor Juarez designed trampling upon the rights 
of the republic. That representative stated to me that the State of Chihuahua 
would not acquiesce in the usurpation of Senor Juarez, but would, on the con- 
trary, repudiate all his acts, which I believe it has done. 

And the task was easy, as a final reason, because the late Presideut destroyed" 
the sole means whence he derived popular prestige, and if he lingers in political 
existence within a corner of the national territory, it is that he is tolerated from 
exceptional motives, to which I need not now allude. 

However easy to me would have been the establishment of a government, it 
was not such an easy task to convince myself as to the necessity of assuming a 
prominent part in a drama representing the government with conflicting execu- 
tives, and at the same time contending with a foreign power, even though one, 
having no excuse in lack of national virtue, arrogated to itself, amid the dark- 
ness of the pending struggle, powers which had originally been conferred by 
the people. Yet, had I believed the honor of Mexico, and the honor of Mexico 
alone, demanded my temporary abstinence from establishment of a legitimate 
government, in the hope either that Senor Juarez would restore to the nation 
that which he had unlawfully appropriated to himself, or that the nation would 
arouse to a sense of injured dignity, I likewise believed that the majesty of 
Mexico should have rebuked the scandalous acts of Senor Benito Juarez, as it 
has already done in similar cases. Let him be rebuked, inasmuch as the estab- 
ishment of a legitimate government, by him overridden, has cost the nation 
more than half a century of blood-stained conflicts. Let him be rebuked for 



432 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

having vitiated that very principle for which we are sacrificing human life in a 
contest with one of the most powerful nations of the earth. Let him he re- 
buked, for were he not, the nation forfeits title to its own existence, inasmuch 
as a people permitting its laws to be desecrated at the option of its ruler can 
neither guarantee its own integrity nor hope to advance towards the standard 
of civilization enjoyed by nations jealous of their well-being. Mexico, how- 
ever, thanks to its own endeavors, is progressing steadily in accordance with the 
spirit of the age, as will be demonstrated by the documents I now publish. 
Let the nation rebuke the treachery of this man for the sake of its own honor, 
even though it suffers a passing penalty for his transgressions ; for a nation 
struggling for a principle, consecrated within the hearts of its citizens, must in- 
evitably resuscitate with a tenfold vigor. Not so with a people who succumb 
at the dictation of a man usurping authority through the vacillations of its 
sons, to its own and individual aggrandizement, for that people stand for all 
ages disgraced in the eyes of God and man. 

Mexico will, doubtlessly, preserve her independence, preserve her principles, 
preserve her honor. Should the caprices of fortune render the salvation of her 
independence an impossibility her honor may be saved at all hazards, for all 
the strength of the world is impotent to destroy the honor of a people who, 
like the Mexican nation, has struggled around a flag whose tattered folds will 
bear to the end the inscription of a solitary cardinal principle. Triumphant it 
will shine in effulgent glory ; clown-trodden, it will carry to remote ages the 
noblest title to heroic martyrdom. 

It may be insinuated, as some have already done, that if Juarez has acted 
illegally, an admission of the fact would dishonor him and thereby inflict injury 
upon the nation. 

Will my silence, or the silence of six or eight other men, propitiate a nation 
whose privileges and laws have been trampled under foot by the individual to 
whose custody they have been intrusted ? Can a silence of this nature confer 
prestige upon a man violating his oath and reprobating his duties? Can it pre- 
judice a nation to protest energetically against wrong perpetrated in its name? 
Has it prejudiced Mexico in the eyes of the world to have protested against 
the creation of a throne upon the land of Hidalgo, and to have proclaimed that 
the rights of Mexico have been assailed through the usurpation of a foreign 
armed force ? Does the sentiment of Mexico and the world depend upon ex- 
pression of our judgment ? Will our silence alter the nature of political acts, 
rendering bad good and good bad ? 

The reputation of a public functionary depends neither upon the silence nor 
the expression of any one citizen, but upon the unequivocal and impartial 
judgment of society, when popular sentiment canonizes, so to speak, the right 
and legal procedure of that functionary. None can be ignorant of the fact that 
when the trials of a nation are at their highest pitch it is far more noble and 
honorable to exhibit herself worthy of herself, condemning all acts that she 
would have discountenanced when in the plentitude of majesty and power, or 
against the dignity and spirit of the law. The heroism of a country, like unto 
that of a man, is rarely evoked unless beneath bitter trials, imposed upon it 
through emergent circumstances. 

I herewith publish the correspondence between Senors Juarez and Prieto, 
relative to the letter addressed by me to the former, through the medium of 
this latter, respecting tender of my services to the government Avhile outside of 
the territorial limits to which I have alluded in my manifesto. To demonstrate 
the accuracy of my statements in this latter document, it would suffice the pub- 
lic to know that the epistle had been received by the government. This is not 
only shown by the correspondence, but the additional fact that it was received 
in May or June, and according to Senor Juarez's authority was not responded 
to until September, thereby proving that reply to a communication of vital im- 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 433 

portance was intentionally delayed for several months. Moreover, I was as- 
sured that that which I requested should receive the requisite authorization, 
without any intention on the part of the government so to do, and that, while 
I was awaiting this authorization I should remain outside of Mexico, in order 
that Senor Juarez might publish, in a decree, that T had abandoned the presi- 
dency of the court, dwelling permanently in a foreign land without license, and 
I had not even informed the government as to when I intended returning within 
the republic. I have already stated that I never received an answer from 
Senor Juarez. 

JESUS G. ORTEGA. 



THE CONSTITUTIONAL PRESIDENT OF THE SUPREME COURT OF JUSTICE OF 
THE REPUBLIC OF MEXICO. 

Circular. 

I herewith send you a copy of the protest and manifesto which I have deemed 
it incumbent upon me to make public, in regard to the coup d'etat perpetrated 
by Senors Benito Juarez and Sebastian Lerdo de Tejada. 

National as well as State legislation having been necessarily suspended 
during continuance of hostilities, nothing remains to direct the administration 
of public affairs save those high functionaries elevated to power through the 
votes of the people. It is for this reason that I address myself to you, inquir- 
ing as to the course of conduct you have adopted with respect to this outrage 
upon legal order, and whether you repudiate or indorse the act. 

The nation preserves an inherent right at all times, and especially during 
hours of trial and anguish, to demand from public officials the expression of 
their opinion as to matters touching the common weal. This right conceded, I 
conceive it to be obligatory upon me, as president of the supreme court, to col- 
late all available information upon that head. Did I not do so, I would regard 
myself amiss in the discharge of the sacred duties imposed upon my position, 
and most particularly so when we contemplate the circumstances at the present 
moment affecting the country. 

If I, in this instance, avail myself of my title as president of the supreme 
court, and not of that of President of the republic, to which position I possess 
a perfectly legal right under the constitution, it is because I do not deem it ex- 
pedient, while the national independence is in jeopardy, to elevate contradic- 
tory standards, even though the one be emblazoned with the motto, "Order," 
and the other with "Abuse of Power," and treason against organic law. Yet 
my forbearance does not necessitate the republic to recognize as legitimate the 
official acts of Benito Juarez after the 30th day of November last past. Con- 
siderations as to the national welfare, both now and for the future, will ever in- 
stigate my actions ; nevertheless I will always struggle to reconcile the cause 
of independence with the absolute salvation of the law. 

Do not on any account presume that this note is designed to solicit your 
opinion upon an unprofitable business, neither that I have constituted myself 
into a judge as to your conduct. No ! the object of this epistle is much more 
noble and elevated. The nation is undergoing a terrible ordeal ; her organic 
code has been ruthlessly violated, and that at a moment of the nation's crisis, 
struggling against a foreign invasion and battling to conserve the form of gov- 
ernment instituted by that same organic code, without which independence 
would be a nullity. The assumption of a solemn oath, my duties, my honor, 
my patriotic devotion to the interests of Mexico, render it obligatory upon me 
to exert my most earnest eudeavors to preserve inviolate the constitution aud 
laws, whose creation has cost our nation so many and bitter sacrifices. At the 
28 Mbx. 



434 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

same time a similar sense of duty impels me to exercise an equal devotion 
towards a preservation of our national independence ; consequently, I have at- 
tempted to effect both purposes simultaneously, rendering the one subservient 
to the other. It is for this reason that I have not appealed directly to the 
masses, who might manifest their disapprobation of the Juarez usurpation in a 
tempestuous manner. To avoid tumultuous demonstrations from the populace I 
have addressed myself to the officers of the people, citizens charged with super- 
vision of popular rights, whose foundation rests upon the observance of the con- 
stitution. 

During peaceful times and those of national quietude, the organic law lays 
down both the order of succession and the manner wherein each authority and 
functionary attains exercise of the duties intrusted to them by the people. 
During an emergent period these provisions may be departed from. Yet the 
precedent of history in similar instances has demonstrated that the most ap- 
propriate method of saving popular rights is one wherein the opinions of the 
representative departments have been consulted. With this aim we have ob- 
served governors and local representatives of the respective States, either in 
accord or separately, protest against ignominious acts wherever they had the 
power so to do, when such acts were found to be in conflict with the spirit of the 
law as the exponent of the will of the sovereign people. 

For the reasons I have given I now address myself to you as a representative 
of the people, even although you are momentarily debarred from the exercise of 
your functions, so that in your official capacity you may communicate to me 
your sentiments upon this matter. While so doing you may discard formalities, 
as much for the reason that they cannot at this present moment be complied 
with, as from a consideration of the grave circumstances which encompass our 
common country. 

Independence, liberty, and the constitution ! San Antonio de Bexar, Febru- 
ary 3, 1S66. 

J. G. ORTEGA. 

The Constitutional Governor of the State of . 



From the constitutional governor of the State of Duiango. 

As a satisfactory reply to your communication of yesterday, inquiring as to 
my opinion of the coup d'etat of Juarez, the manner in which it impressed me, 
and my projected line of conduct for the future, I herewith transmit to you a 
copy of a letter which I forwarded to Senor Juarez from Presidio del Norte, 
dated December 15, of the past year. 

Independence and liberty ! San Antonio, February 4, 1S6G. 

J. M. PATONI. 
The Citizen J. G. Ortega, 

Constitutional President of the B,epublic of Mexico. 



Presidio del Norte, December 15, 1865. 
My Dear Friend and Sir : The circumstance of the French troops being 
at the gates of Chihuahua at both my arrival and departure from that city, the 
implied bad taste of manifesting my sentiments during the critical moments sig- 
nalizing our last interview, and lastly a determination not to take the initiative 
in enunciating my discontent at your coup d'etat, believing that task to be more 
properly allotted to persons of more consideration than myself, impelled me to 
preserve silence on that occasion, while at the same time my duty instigated me 
to indite a confidential epistle to you on a matter affecting national interests. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 435 

It is not within my province, neither do I boast capacity adequate, to ana- 
lyze the, decrees of the 8th of November. Nevertheless, however masterly 
may be deemed the manner in which the law has been perverted, however ap- 
plicable and sagacious may be the deductions drawn from the spirit of the law 
by your cabinet, in everything not comprised within the circle you have de- 
scribed for your personal advantage, every honest citizen perceives that the- 
law has been violated ; that there does not exist in your person title sufficient, 
to exercise the functions you have usurped, and that the country is threatened 
with the danger of anarchy, when constitutional order could and should have- 
progressed iu all its majesty. The grand principle, secured through triumph 
of the plan of Ayutla, was the perpetual abolition of persons. By it popular 
sovereignty — the soul of democracy — was recognized as a practical truth, and 
military mobs condemned by the just seventy of the people as illegal combina- 
tions, who, with more or less plausibility* and stimulated by ambitious leaders, 
subjugated a populace incapable of resistance. 

When I abandoned my peaceful employment and sacrificed my pi-ivate for- 
tune in furtherance of these principles, and their sustenance through force of ' 
arms, combating with like vigor through adversity and success, I was buoyed, 
up with the trust that the law would be our guide, conscious as we were that 
it would be sustained by the popular vote. 

The citizen soldier can never be rendered an instrument for the destruction 
of the laws. Called into existence by the nation, he can never convert himself 
into a traitor to its interests, and as a defender of the government he can neves- 
be induced to conspire against its interests. According to my method of ob- 
servation, and viewed by my conscience, I have no doubt but that your reten- 
tion of power after the 30th of November is a usurpation ; that the naming: 
of your successor is an assumption unknown to our code, and but initiated by 
Santa Anna during a period of the greatest disorder, and that this commingling 
of anomalies exposes the country to anarchy, besides depriving it of strength,., 
and compromising our name with foreign countries. 

I adjure and pray of you, Senor Juarez, by the lustre of your good fame, 
by the well-merited position to which your virtues exalted you, and by the in- 
terest of our common weal, to which your devotion has been an earnest of hope 
and a source of pride, to retrace your steps upon the road along which you. 
have started, as in your footprints it is impossible for me to follow 

I take greater pains to communicate to you my resolution, inasmuch as it 
should recall to mind memory of the past. You have ever found me at your 
side, unvacillating and obeying your every order while you represented the law. 
You will remember that I have always been one among the first to fly to your- 
defence, and during moments when it happened that personal friends had de- 
serted you I was too anxious to hasten to your company, eager to identify my 
destiny with that of the principles which you have guarded heretofore with 
fidelity. When you ceased to represent principles you deserted me ; so that our 
separaiion has not been wrought through apprehension of danger, or through 
momentary emergencies, but because I did not wish to appear as a traitor against.. 
laws you taught us to respect. 

This manifestation of opinion, which I submit with the greatest respect and 
with the best of feeling, does not in the least weaken my resolution to serve 
my country with the same loyalty I have ever given evidence of; neither wilL 
it prevent my union with those who are fighting against the invader with a de- 
termination to vindicate our common rights to the utmost extremity. 

Denying beforehand any intimations of disrespect, and with no wish of giv- 
ing personal offence — on the contrary, actuated by the sincerest well-wishes for 
your future, I assure you in honesty and frankness that my sense of loyalty- 
compels me, without compromising myself with party or person, distinctly te- 
state that I will obey no orders emanating from you as the government, but,. 



436 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO 

will continue to defend my country according to my own inspirations, co- 
operating with those who legitimately — indispensable condition according to my 
judgment — do so for the salvation of our independence. 

1 do not wish to conclude without acknowledging, independently of my offi- 
cial duties, my personal gratitude for the attentions you have shown me. With 
sincere feelings of esteem, I remain, as ever, your affectionate friend and 
servant, 

J. M. PATONI. 

Sen or Benito Juarez, Paso del Norte. 



From the ex- constitutional governor of the State of Miclwacan, republic of 
Mexico, general of division. 

New York, February 26, 1866. 

I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of the circular, dated 3d of this 
month, you have communicated to me, inquiring my opinion as to the coup 
d'etat perpetrated by Sefiors Benito Juarez and Sebastian Lerdo de Tejada, 
through their decrees of the 8th of November of the past year. 

In response, it becomes my duty in the first place to inform you that my 
ieim of office, as constitutional governor of the State of Michoacan, expired on 
the 16th of September of last year; that in consequence of the war with a 
foreign power, I asked leave from the legislature to absent myself and devote 
mj'self to the formation of forces for the independence and tranquilization of 
our fatherland. Being so just and necessary an object, the license was granted 
by the State congress, and in compliance with an article in the constitution of 
Michoacan, they appointed as my successor the citizen Deputy Antonio Huerta, 
who, by virtue thereof, entered upon the functions of that office, receiving at 
the same time, and from the same legislature, authorization to continue in office 
rantil a new election is held — that is, provided I should be killed in action, or my 
term of office should expire by reason of the prolongation of the war. 

Having said this much, it is with pleasure that I respond to the circular of 
February 3, in the capacity of the former constitutional governor of the State of 
Michoacan, and as one who received that exalted position through popular suf- 
frage. 

In inditing this letter I do not wish to weaken the force of the laws committed 
to my custody by the people, for I neither desire to maintain a position to 
which 1 am not entitled, nor usurp an influence not justly my own, and which 
only derives honor and respectability when indorsed by the popular vote. 

For these reasons, while enumerating my opinion with regard to the coup 
d'etat of Sefiors Juarez and Lerdo de TejaHa, you will accept it as the senti- 
ment of a supreme authority, who has been intrusted with the governorship of 
an important State, and as an expression of opinion from the only governor 
elected by the popular voice who could speak in its behalf. 

The State of Michoacan regards with deep bitterness the coup d'etat perpe- 
trated at El Paso del Norte, as antagonistic to the principles of the State con- 
stitution, and bedimming the traditional respect with which the laws have ever 
"been regarded by the citizens of that State. 1 am intimate with the sentiments 
of my fellow-citizens, and well know their obedience to the legitimate authority, 
inasmuch as I am a native of that State, and have had the honor of being at 
the head of its affairs for eight years, during which period the rule of constitu- 
tional order was neyer once disturbed. On the contrary, the sons of Michoacan, 
enthusiastic admirers of law and justice, have ever presented a firm front 
against the aspirations of ambition and the intrigues of disaffection. Let the 
foolish attempts of Comonfort attest the truth of this declaration. In all 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 437 

tilings, neither has Michoacan nor myself judged otherwise than that the laws of 
the republic owe their creation to naught save the will of the people, and we 
believe, moreover, that laws once framed cannot be violated by any person at 
his own will. 

Senor Benito Juarez, who has broken through the constitutional defences of 
the country by a blind mis-step, and who now unfurls a revolutionary banner 
with a hand pledged to sustain that of law and order, has not, neither can he 
have, my assent to his decrees of the 8th of November last past. At the period 
of the never-to-be-forgotten epoch of Ayutla, for the purpose of assisting in 
crushing out a despot, oppressing the Mexican masses, I marched to the battle- 
field, not only to seek glory in triumphing over tyranny, but to acquire a 
ground-plan whereon the people could erect a nation, so that in the pages of a 
saci-ed code they could read their rights and duties. 

No infraction of the laws nor disobedience to the supreme power has thrown 
a shade upon my public life ; on the contrary, wherever the fundamental laws 
of the nation have been menaced, the sons of Michoacan, with myself, have ever 
been foremost in their defence. 

Benito Juarez, victim of the scandalous coup d'etat of Oomonfort, is well 
aware that among the ranks of the constitutional army, organized to defend the 
supreme authority, I have been always ready for the sustenance of the laws, 
and willing to die before consenting to their violation. It is in such high esteem 
I hold the cardinal principles of right, acquired through shedding of Mexican 
blood. 

The consequences of our present war are not mute witnesses of my devotion 
to the laws. A prisoner of war at Puebla, and transported to France as such, 
I have never recognized any other cause but that of the republic, nor any other 
authority than that imposed upon me by the voice of the people, and congenial 
to the fundamental code. Notwithstanding that, obedience has natural limits, 
and thus, as I would consider it a crime to oppose legitimate authority, I would 
regard it a still greater crime to obey one who usurps illegally the sovereign 
power. 

Benito Juarez has finished his career, for nothing, according to my conception, 
can authorize his perpetuation in authority; neither can he exclude the person 
to whom the law gives the succession in a determinate manner. Consequently, 
Senor Juarez is but a private individual, and the presidency of the republic has 
reverted to the constitutional president of the supreme court of justice, who is 
the only mam entitled to direct the destinies of the country. Therefore, as the 
last constitutional governor of the State of Michoacan, or, as general of division 
in the army, you will please accept my opinion, which I have set forth in reply 
to your circular, appealing to those placed by the will of the people to watch, 
through all time, over the national rights within their respective jurisdictions. 

Please accept the expression of my high esteem. Independence, liberty, and 
the constitution ! 

E. HUERTA. 

The General of Division J. G. Ortega, 

Constitutional President of the Mexican Republic. 



Constitutional Presidency of the 

Supreme Court of the Mexican Republic, 

San Antonio de Bexar, February 3, 1S66. 

I herewith send you a copy of the protest and manifesto which I caused to 

be published in this city, respecting the coup d'etat perpetrated by Benito 

Juarez on the 8th day of November of last year. I sent through you from New 

York to Senor Juarez the document alluded to. As it was not of a private 



438 CONDITION OF AFFAIKS IN MEXICO. 

character, but relative to public and national affairs, I trust that you will supply 
me with all details in reference to its reception, accompanying the information 
with any document you may possess. 

Clothed as you are with an official position, I hope that you will likewise 
favor me with your views as to the act of Senor Juarez, of which I have made 
mention, and as to that which you have done either in approving or condemning 
the same. 

Tbe nation has a right at all times, and more especially during its hours of 
trial, to learn the conduct of public officers. 

As for myself, and placed in the position of president of the court through 
popular suffrage, I believe myself compelled to gather such information, so as to 
comply with the obligations imposed upon me by my duty, and the circum- 
stances of the national situation. 

Independence, liberty, and the constitution ! 

J. G. ORTEGA. 

GuiLLERMO PfilETO, 

Postmaster General of the Mexican Republic. 



Office of Postmaster General of the Mexican Republic, 

San Antonio de Bexar, February 15, 1866. 

The misfortune of suffering in my eyesight deprives me of the pleasure of 
answering your official note autographically, and as extensively as I would wish; 
consequently, I am obliged to send you copies of the documents to which you 
make allusion. 

The first is a copy of a letter sent to an intimate friend in Chihuahua, and 
exhibits in the amplest manner my opinion with respect to the coup d'etat, free 
from all other motives than those of sorrow at the unexpected retention of au- 
thority by Senor Juarez. I have the honor of assuring you that my conduct 
has been entirely consistent with my ideas. At the time I suspected the in- 
credible weakness of the chief magistrate of the republic, I demonstrated to 
him personally, and in the most earnest manner, the consequences of his design. 
I made public my disapproval ■of the scheme, and to avoid scandal sent in my 
resignation, which was not accepted ; while, in my discourse of September 16, 
I alluded to the advantages Senor Juarez would obtain by swerving from the 
path of usurpation. I caused my name to be stricken, from the head of the 
official newspaper when publication of the decrees of the coup d'etat were made. 
I had published that paper gratuitously for two years. Finally, crossing the 
desert, I retired to a foreign country, separating myself from a class of persons 
attempting to impose upon the nation as law scholastic cunning, which the peo- 
ple will have the good sense, doubtlessly, never to accept. 

The other documents which I forward are copies of letters exchanged with 
■Senor Juarez. They will bear me out in saying that I placed the letter which 
you intrusted to me in the hands of that high functionary ; that he was aware 
of your being in a foreign country, with the intention of remaining there for a 
time; that he never exhibited the slightest disapprobation of your conduct ; and, 
finally, that he did not answer you until the 7th of September, at a time when 
it was publicly known that the idea of the coup d'etat existed with the cabinet. 

I believe what I have said will cover the object of your note ; as for myself, 
I have the satisfaction of knowing that I have performed everything possible, 
-consistent with my duty. 

Independence, liberty, and the constitution ! 

GUILLERMO PRIETO. 

■General J. G. Ortega, 

Constitutional President of the Republic of Mexico. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 439 

[Strictly confidential ] 

Paso del Norte, October 31, 1S66. 

My Dear Frank: This will be no letter, but a panorama of the terrible 
shock which I sraffer in a painful manner. You will comprehend rny meaning 
by reading the enclosed decree, issued by Benito Juarez on this date — a decree 
which it is, at this moment, impossible for me to analyze, as I feel as if I were 
in the midst of chaos. The decree, as you will perceive, is apparently accord- 
ing to the law, besides being solicitous for the well-being of the army, and in 
accord with the purest sentiments of patriotism. Ostensibly it is a measure 
which does not transcend the natural faculties of the executive, against exercise 
of which opposition would be made only from selfish motives. But a careful 
perusal will disclose the Jesuitical mask covering the presidential question, so 
as to cloak, during the nation's most sole'nn trial, in the most audacious and 
treacherous manner, by surprise, the prologue to the coup d'etat. It is thrown 
forth as a secret poison to assassinate legality ; it is designed as an ingenious 
dagger to pierce unnoticed, but to leave behind an incurable wound The 
allusion to Ortega is transparent on every line. It is he who is away in a for- 
eign land, leaving; with license and absent for four months. It caunot mean 
Berriozabal, for he was recalled by express orders ,• neither is it Huerta and his 
companions, for they are excluded. Ortega is the party denounced, as any 
reasonable being can at a glance detect. 

This man, whom the unalterable law declares to be President of the republic; 
this mau, whose title was continued in a solemn manner by the government 
but a short year since, when public opinion accused him of being ambitious — 
whether with reason or not we cannot say, as memory of his defeat at Majoma 
remains fresh, as accusations from which he was absolved by government are 
still being fanned by hate and malice — this man, I say, is not judged nor con- 
demned, but his power is torn from him, as one. dangerous to the common weal, 
or unworthy his trust. No J the law is spread as a trap so as to render him 
helpless ; when, thus enchained, he is wounded and robbed of his legitimate 
functions. 

Do not think for a moment that I am pleading for Ortega as an individual. I 
defend him as he at this moment stands, the personification of right. I neither 
favor him nor dread him, nor have I evidence to show him preferable to Juarez, 
but in all justice I regard him as an exponent of the law, whom they desire ro 
override with a cowardly intrigue, concocted in secrecy and out of the popular 
sight. The decree is a confusion of ideas, which renders its unravelling difficult. 
The presidential question is a simple one; the consti;ulion places a definite and 
positive term to the presidential office, so that a usurpation is impossible. It 
expresses that, no matter what may happen, the president of the court shall be 
the substitute for the President when the term of office of this last expires, and 
no election is held for his successor. The subterfuge of declaiming the incum- 
bents to remain in office until a new election is not expressly set forth, but im- 
plied, in my estimation : First, because this case is like all others, and provided 
for in the constitution; secondly, because, when the law regulating elections 
was adopted, the contrary was held ; and, lastly, because, in the famous answer 
of Lerdo to Ortega, government denied the right to change the law. 

Ortega left the country upon leave of absence, advised the government of his 
residence, placed his services at its option, wrote directly to Juraez, and still re- 
ceived no sign of its disapprobation. To all of this you are a witness. 

The previous career of Ortega in Chihuahua gave no evidence of irregularity 
or insolence; he respected the resolutions of the government; he acquiesced in 
its mandates, and left to make himself useful. But that nothing should be 
wanting in this violation of the law, it is concocted with ingenious perversion, 
which is sought to be excused by sophistry and perfidy. Was it anticipated or 



440 CONDITION OF AFFAIKS IN MEXICO. 

found inconvenient that Ortega should not come into power? Then why did 
they not trump up a thousand reasons or plausible pretexts to incapacitate him? 
Was it not rumored that he committed an error while exercising power as gover- 
nor of Zacatecas, and thereby destroyed his right to the position of president of 
the court ? Was it not reported that he should have been court-martialed for his 
conduct at Majoma ? If so, why did he continue vested with authority and 
recognized as successor to the presidency ? 

We will suppose that Ortega deserves the prosecution so openly instituted 
against him. What is the power for his judgment ? Has not the constitution 
prescribed the method of procedure ? Is there no restriction imposed upon the 
faculties which the government has arrogated, thrusting the future into the em- 
brace of usurpation and absolutism 1 Why deceive the nation with this assump- 
tion of perjury and falsehood ? Is it possible that the presence of a foreign 
enemy renders us blind to the theft perpetrated upon the national laws, upon the 
most precious of conquered rights ? Is not all this formality and falsification 
the proper weapons of usurpers ? 

Juarez has heretofore been my idol, both on account of his virtues and his 
having been chosen by the law, for his standard was our glory and our rights, 
and were we to fail, we must succumb in defence of the law. What remains of 
our political edifice? Whom shall we respect? Does it make any difference 
whether the usurper be named Santa Anna or Oomonfort, or Ceballos, as of 
old, or Juarez, the suicide of to-day ? We will suppose that Juraez was a 
political necessity, and that his administration was immaculate. Did he derive 
reputation apart from his official position ? We will not hazard the presumption 
that a change would prove distasteful, or that our exterior relations, being par- 
alyzed, would prove the cause of anarchy. Has not usurpation the same or 
greater dangers ? What would be the result from the discontent of the adher- 
ents of Juarez in the city of Mexico, where they are very few in number? Is, 
then, discontent comparable to the disaffection of Negrete^of Zacatecas, of the di- 
vision of the army in the State of Sinaloa, and of the remainder of the republic ? 
Yet all this occurs through the action adopted by Juarez. The partisans of prin- 
ciple will not recognize Juarez in the future, for they advocate principles, not 
men. Such being the case, will it justify a deliberate rising in favor of Ortega? 

What are our foreign relations ? Who will assure us that the United States 
will continue their sympathy after this coup d'etat, as they always follow prin- 
ciples, and not persons ? 

And what an instrument to our disadvantage will be this act in the hands of 
our enemies when knowledge of it becomes diffused to the world at large. 

Anarchy? It is a word, under the circumstances, which terrifies more than it 
injures ; it exists already, and through it may be saved the national honor. 

There can be no anarchy when there is unity in thought, and this unity em- 
ployed to put down the invasiou. If Arteaga and Regules, Fernando Ortega, 
Eiva Palacios, and Rosales, and all the chiefs, had been subjected to or omitted 
our orders, what would have become of the country ? Anarchy is horrible when 
the ambition of different men is loosened to run riot. Then the struggle between 
the strong and the weak commences on the same soil. But the country without 
a head would have an insurrection, and that this would be common will be the 
supreme good of the country. Would not the nation be convulsed to see the 
flag of the invader disappear; only to give place to another equally illegal and 
equally detested ? 

In any case should evil befall the country, Juarez and those who have allured 
him to his ruin will stand the blame, and not those who follow the path of duty 
and honor respecting the public will of the country, which is expressly men- 
tioned in their fundamental code. I even go further, and suppose this extraor- 
dinary feat of jugglery of Juarez to terminate happily. Is it honorable to fol- 
low him ? Is it right to acknowledge such a vaulting over the law ? Ought we 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 441 

to tolerate this act, thus authorizing others of a similar nature which would very- 
soon follow ? For my part I will not. 

I have been so candid with you so far that not even the fear of the constitu- 
tion's being broken stops me. Our cause is so grand that the glory of driving 
out the invaders would be unfading, and this might tempt me to act against the 
laws. But no ; that would be reputation for the life of the country. I have not 
done it yet. I am not frightened. 

I am frightened to contemplate Juarez as a revolutionist, inert, crippled, hag- 
gling, occupying himself with misrepresentations, or. in elevating the baseness of 
vengeance against a certain person to the height of a state question. Can you 
imagine Juarez as a revolutionist ? What are the rights of this man ? What his 
strength ? Are the destinies of a country to be subverted at the call of a scene 
shifter ? Can this rushing of a country into perdition be caused by cautious but 
deceitful night vigils and thought? Is it virtue to break the law? Is it right 
to be the judge in your own case ? Is it honorable that the culprit should turn 
the tables on his judge and declare him a thief, because he happens to acquire a 
temporal power? • 

I repeat that I grope in darkness and know not where to turn. 

How obscure and treacherous is this document ; how it omits the name of Or- 
tega; what an innocent and natural air it bears. If we say to the government, 
Here, that artful idea, that order, is an ambush from behind which you will as- 
sassinate the legitimate possessor of what you declare to be your inheritance ; 
then they might say, What do you deduce from? Damn anathemas on the ca- 
lumniator. Shame and punishment to the suspicious rogue ! 

I saw this intrigue coming and I threw up my position, because I had neither 
labor to perform nor means of livelihood. My renouncement of office was not 
accepted, and I was retained so as to martyrize me, or for the purpose of having 
me desert my position in an infamous way, so that this desertion might be used 
as a gag to stop my just reproof of what I knew to be a turning of the truth, the 
abjuration of the law, the improbable transformation of the legitimate govern- 
ment into a strolling company of actors, who wish to enact plays after the manner 
of Napoleon the Little, and, shame ! after the style of Maximilian the Rickety ! 

Can you imagine what I have suffered ? Can you imagine my situation when 
I am the exception among those gentlemen ? 
I am yours, affectionately, 

GUILLERMO PRLETO. 



Paso del Norte, October 1, 1865. 

My Dear Friend and Sir: The last two times in which I have seen you> 
you have manifested that you were displeased with me. This displeasure is 
caused doubtlessly by my having, in a thoughtless moment, disclosed my ideas 
at a public entertainment, but which I am proud to say were conformable to the 
law and the honor of the government. Having lost youi' esteem, I miss one of 
the most powerful reasons for being near your person, as well as the small recom- 
pense of eight years of public service, in all of which time I have given patent 
proofs of my loyalty to the cause, and of affection to you personally. Misrep- 
resentation is a degradation, and I have remained here so as not to degrade my- 
self. I beg of you as a special favor that you give an order, causing the labors 
of the administration of the post offices to cease, which in fact are useless, for I 
neither have anything to do in that respect, nor have I any salary, and this 
order will rid you of me, and rid me from being the victim of penury. 
I am, as ever, your servant and friend, 

GUILLERMO PRIETO. 

Benito Juarez. 



442 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 



Paso del Norte, October 1, 1S65. 

My Dear Friend: I answer your letter of to-day, by saying that I cannot 
give the order to stop the administration of post offices as you wish, because that 
would be equivalent to the government commencing the destruction of public 
administration. Let the enemy destroy it if they have the power, and such 
should be the destiny of my country, but I shall neither do it nor allow it to be 
done so long as I am able to prevent it. If you have been wanting in circum- 
spection in the matter of which you speak 1 can say nothing, as you have a 
faithful and sincere friend which can satisfy you by approving or disapproving 
your conduct; that friend is your own conscience, to which I appeal without 
having the necessity of verbal explanations in this matter, or any other parti- 
culars which you may not wish to inform me of, or I may wish to ask of you. 

Before closing this letter I ask of you a favor, which is, that you bring to 
your memory that I never have said to you nor authorized you to say to Gene- 
ral Gonzalez Ortega, in my name, that he could remain indefinitely away from 
his country. It has never been my pleasure to tell any one to do anything but 
what he liked best. Neither have I authorized any one to pursue the road of 
dishonor. 

I am, as always, your true friend, 

BENITO JUAREZ. 

GUILLERMO PRIETO. 



Paso del Norte, October 1, 1865. 

My Esteemed Friend and Sir : I did not wish for an order to destroy the 
administration of post offices, but that the labors of it should cease, which in 
fact is the case. I have appealed to my conscience, and that is not only satis- 
fied but proud. I have never written one single syllable to General Ortega, 
neither as coming from myself nor yourself, in regard to your feelings about his 
indefinite permanency away from his country. Once, in a private conversation 
between Iglesias (minister of hacienda and gobernacion, in the Juarez cabinet) 
and myself, I said to him that Ortega had written to you through me, in which 
letter he expressed a wish to labor for our country in the United States, and 
asking your approbation. In answer to which letter you told me that you had 
said to him to act in conjunction with Romero, (Mexican minister to the United 
States.) I added in that conversation that, taking this reply as a guide, you 
were not averse to his remaining away from his country. This answer covers 
the grounds of your letter to me, which ought neither to offend you nor suspect 
your future intentions, and gives you proof of my proceedings. Any way, if 
you can in any manner so fix it as to enable me to separate myself from my 
position, so that it will not appear as if I had been expelled, but only as a mat- 
ter of delicacy on my part, I shall be very much obliged if you will inform me 
as to the manner. 

Respectfully, your obedient servant, 

GUILLERMO PRIETO. 

Benito Juarez. 



Paso del Norte, October 1, 1865. 
My Esteemed Friend: I am sure that I could never have told you that I 
would have answered Ortega by telling him to act in concert with Romero. I 
recollect having answered Ortega on the 7th day of September last, simply 
telling him that he could not receive the authority which he asked for, and this 
is the first time that I have ever told any one what I had written to your con- 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 443 

stituent, (Ortega.) I am very happy to know that you have so clear and proud 
a conscience; for that being the case, you will live tranquilly. 

I cannot grant your prayer in regard to the ceasing of the labors of the gene- 
ral administration of post offices, because I have not the wish to assist the in- 
vaders of Mexico in discrediting the administration of my country. I cannot 
tell you, either, to leave your office, because I have neither a motive to tell you 
so, nor dnes the government repel you, nor are you a stumbling-block in the 
way. 

I am your affectionate friend, 

BENITO JUAREZ. 

GllILLERMO PRIETO. 



Paso del Norte, October 2, 1865. 

My Esteemed Friend and Sir: When I, in May or June last, placed a 
letter from Mr. Ortega into your hands, I am sure that you then said to me that 
you were going to answer Ortega to the effect that he should act in concert with 
Romero. If you did or did not do it I cannot say, neither do I know what you 
said to him in your letter of last month. The former idea, that is to say, that 
of May or June, I communicated to Mr. Iglesias then, and this is a proof to me 
that I am not mistaken. 

I do not think that there would have been dishonor in suspending the labors 
of the general administration of post offices, nor with my ceasing to operate 
would the invaders have been assisted, for by the same reasoning is it not ridi- 
culous to believe that the ceasing of the administration of sealed paper, public 
lotteries and custom-houses, have also assisted the invasion 1 I proposed that I 
should be considered as having resigned, for the reason that the public should 
not know that there could be a cause of difference between you and myself. 
To stop all further doubts, and to close a correspondence which occupies your 
attention, I herewith send my resignation, which I hope, as a great and only 
favor, may be at once attended to. 

I am your affectionate servant, 

GUILLERMO PRIETO. 

Benito Juarez. 



[Copy of resignation. ] 

Office of General Administration of P , 

Paso del Norte, October 2, 1865. 

There beinec no duties to perform in the general administration of post offices, 
and my presence in this place bebig of no consequence to my cause — on the 
contrary, a source of unpleasant feelings — I beg of you to entreat the President 
to grant me leave to reside wherever 1 may see fit, and if this should seem im- 
possible, to admit the formal resignation which I make to the office of general 
administrator of post offices. 

GUILLERMO PRIETO. 

The Minister of State. 



Paso del Norte, October 2, 1S65. 

My Esteemed Friend: I perfectly well recollect that I did not tell you 
what I was going to answer Ortega when you brought me his letter. I said 
that I would answer him in a courteous and polite manner and nothing more. 

I will present your resignation to the proper parties, and in due time will 
communicate to you their resolution. 
Your affectionate friend, 

BENITO JUAREZ. 
Guillermo Prieto. 



444 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO 

Republican Army of Mexico, Office of Brigadier General, 

San Antonio cle Bexar, February 6, 1866. 

Notwithstanding the several supreme decrees which would have justified me 
at different times to have separated myself from the Mexican government, yet 
their indisputable title to legality made me remain at the side of Mr. Juarez, 
where I would now he were it not for the decrees of the 8th of November, 
which I consider as an attempt against constitutional order. 

When General Oomonfort, colleaguing with a portion of the army, shielding 
himself behind the memory of glorious deeds, and flattered by parties interested, 
gave his coup d'etat, I, in my humble position, withdrew from the armed mob, 
and did not vacillate an instant in giving my support to him who was president 
of the supreme court of justice, and who shortly entered into the exercise of the 
presidential power. In the struggle for reform, I had the honor to be one of the 
number who composed the army that, victorious in the capital, were the first to 
aggrandize the head of the government, so that in his aggrandizement might be 
seen the triumph of the law. During the present war, the more adverse to our 
cause was fortune, the more inseparable have I been to the government, and Mr. 
Juarez will bear me witness, that on treading the confiues of the republic, when 
it appeared that we touched the limits of our territory and our hopes at the same 
time, I was one of the few who carried that far their faith and respect for the 
government which still upheld the tattered but glorious banner of the nation. 

The decrees of the 8th of November changed the face of affairs, and threw the 
country back to the times when an obscure plot displaced the will of the nation ; 
and when reason, which is the law, ceded its place to arbitrariness, which is 
nothing but a manifestation of tyranny, I found myself more than any one else 
obliged to separate myself from the so-called government, because to a soldier 
there was not even the excuse that power was retained so as to continue the 
struggle, for the same coup d'etat only asked from the people their indifference in 
exchange for the government's inaction. 

I have arrived here, after extreme difficulty, so that you who have the legiti- 
mate title to, and imperious duty of saving the independence and laws of the 
country, might see me at your side in the station and manner which you may 
see fit, when you head the ranks of the defenders of independence. 

Having made this declaration, I comply with the duties which honor imposes 
on me ; and if, through any motive which I beforehand respect, you should not 
find it convenient to present yourself within the republic, I will go and join any 
soldiers who carry our flag as their symbol, Avithout having lost for one moment 
faith in the holiness of our cause through your absence; and thus I shall not be 
in the sad condition of him who tramples the laws and honor of his country 
under foot to save our independence, nor of him who compounds with the trans- 
gressions of Mr. Juarez. 

My acts will, at any rate, serve to explain my opinions, and be a proof that 
I neither received nor complied with the watchword to break, by force of arms, 
the rights of the nation. 

Liberty and reform! 

FERNANpO POUSEL. 

General Jesus G. Ortega, 

Constitutional President of the Republic of Mexico. 



Army of the Mexican Republic, Office of Brigadier General, 

San Antonio de Bexar, December 18, 1865. 

In the month of August of last year government left the city of Chihuahua 

and went to Paso del Norte, giving the order to the chiefs and officers who were 

attached to and followed it, that they might choose a place of residence in any 

place not occupied by the enemy, and also that it should not be El Paso del 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 445 

Norte. In accordance with these orders, several chiefs, and I among them, 
took the road to Presidio del Norte, and there, in unison with General Negrete, 
and inspired by our patriotism, we fortunately got together a few arms so as to 
be able to bostilize the enemy. Two months passed, during which time I be- 
came convinced that the resources of the State being frittered away, and the 
executive taking no initiative part, our efforts would be useless. I vacillated 
between going into the interior of the republic to join some other forces, or to 
go to the United States, there to try and procure arms, when I had reason to 
know that Juarez was seriously plotting his perpetuation in power, which would, 
in reality, incapacitate national defence, and convert the army into the escort of 
a usurper. I entered the career of arms with libe.ty as a godfather. I wished 
to enter into citizenship on the field of battle, because the war which then raged 
was for the liberties and regeneration of the masses ; and the commencement of 
my career and the advent of Juarez to power coinciding, I neither had any other 
name nor other flag to invoke, nor any other cause than that with which he has 
been identified. 

His transformation into a revolutionist was his disappearance from legal right, 
and an army could only serve him for uses entirely personal. The evils which 
I then foresaw, the sentiments which from that moment animated me, and my 
acknowledgment of yourself as President of the republic after the 30th of No- 
vember, I made manifest to you through a commissioner which I sent to New 
York in August last, I coming to this city to reside, where I have, as you know, 
been as useful as I could be to the common cause of our country. This is the 
simple explanation of my conduct; I think it fully justified, not only from my 
inward feelings of conscience, not only from the rigid test of the laws, whose 
unequivocal tenor condemns Mr. Juarez, not only on account of public feeling, 
which, as it leaks out, shows the bitterness felt for the painful loss of one of our 
glories — for the name of Juarez was one of our national glories — but on account 
of the overturning of the legal order, and the danger to independence, because 
governments to be strong must be just, and usurpation carries within itself the 
germs of weakness and annihilation. I, one of the least of citizens, but in my 
expression of national conscience as great as any, have wished to protest by 
my conduct against the coup d'etat of Mr. Juarez, so as to be witness that 
among all classes, and on behalf of all who love their country, there is a unani- 
mous feeling against this overturning of the public right of the nation, against 
the criminal attempt to divide the lawful cause of the country, and against the 
probable effect of giving cause for anarchy and fraternal war in the midst of our 
foreign invasion, and the danger, even if triumphant in this horrible invasion, of 
receiving the terrible inheritance of civil war and capricious rulers. Having 
thus expressed my feelings, and fully convinced that you are the legitimate 
head of the government, I place myself at your orders, so that I may be em- 
ployed, even if only as a common soldier, in the defence of national independ- 
ence. Independence and liberty ! 

M. QUE SAD A. 

Jesus G. Ortega, 

President of the Republic of Mexico. 



New York, February 22, 1866. 

Sir : I herewith send you a copy of the letter which I sent to Mr. Benito 
Juarez on the 7th of October, of last year. You will note the frankness with 
which I always express myself, and more than ever when my feelings are brought 
in contact with the politics of my country. 

Benito Juarez, blinded in the extreme, has just given a terrible blow, not only 
against the constitution and nationality of the republic of Mexico, but against 
himself. I trust that he may yet turn his steps and arrive at a full knowledge 



446 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

of the gravity of trie crime which he has committed. As in my letter I dilate 
fully upon the conduct which, in my belief, Mr. Juarez ought to observe, I omit 
repeating it here, but I wish it to be understood that I protest against the de- 
cree of the 8th of November, 1865, given by the referred to Juarez, whom I not 
only consider as an infamous blot in a government which is known as a consti- 
tutional one, but as the volume in which is recorded the expropriation of the 
rights which belong to a people, and which are now intrusted by them to the 
president of the supreme court of justice. 

Independence and liberty! 

JOAQUIN VILLALOBOS. 

General Jesus G Ortega, 

President of the Republic of Mexico. 



New York, October 7, 1865. 

Sir : The extraordinary events now transpiring in our country is the reason 
why I direct myself to you, to manifest what my opinion of the actual state of 
the political horizon is, and what I consider as just and necessary. Do not look 
on this letter as from a philosopher, which I am not, nor as the result of a par- 
tiality. What I wish to say to you now is instigated by my love for my country, 
and for those republican institutions which fortunately still rule us. Take this 
letter in that light and hear me. 

One of the great motives which has actuated France in originating an inter- 
vention, has been the disorder and want of respect to the laws in which Mexi- 
cans have always lived. Unfortunately, our reform, which originated the agony 
and death of the retrograde party, caused, necessarily, a civil war, but which, 
in Europe, was not so considered as necessary. Each party, which had come 
into existence up to the time of the revolution of Ayutla, had put forward their 
leaders, only to depose them in turn, and the conservative party, incorrigible 
to the last, owes its downfall to the villany of its acts and men. Not so the 
liberal party, which, convinced that its only guide could be /aw, pursued from 
the Ayutla revolution a legal path ; and neither defeat nor obstacle has made it 
change from its original resolution. 

The desertion of Mr Alvarez, which was rather turbulent, compromised ma- 
terially our situation, but, fortunately, a pacific arrangement quieted everything 
and opened the path to the presidency for Mr. Oomonfort. This gentleman, who 
unfortunately misunderstood the part he was to play, and wished to become the 
gratuitous thief of what he legally possessed, brought to light the famous coup 
d'etat, and, in doing this, infringed the law and changed public opinion. 

You know perfectly well what the result was of this notorious act. The 
church party extended its arms to the chief of the revolution, not to embrace 
him, but to strangle him, and Comonfort, undeceived a few hours after his 
treason, knew that military force had lost its influence in the country, and that 
nothing but the law held full dominion. We have here the reason why this 
apostate of Ayutla opened your prison doors and left you at liberty to join the 
army which was waiting for you, and who unanimously acknowledged you as 
the head of government. Nearly all the States lent their adhesion to you and 
offered to sustain you. 

. It is undoubtedly the case that when Comonfort violated his oath he left the 
field open for the ambitious success of many influential politicians, and that it 
was to be (eared that each particular faction, civil or military, should each take 
a separate and distinct road. However, this was not the case ; on the contrary, 
every republican of any note, capable of successfully playing his ambitious part, 
constituted himself into a bulwark of the law, and recognized Benito Juarez as 
the legitimate successor to the presidency of Mexico. 

It is needless to follow the course of that struggle ; suffice it to say, that in 
all the defeats of our army, and in all the confusion naturally originating from 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 447 

so many rebuffs, your authority was never questioned, and even when you had 
to leave the country and embark on foreign waters and travel through f reign 
countries to return, it was never disrespected or doubted. Vera Cruz, which 
was the place chosen by the republican government for a temporary capital, 
opened its doors to the supreme authority of the nation ; it raised its walls and 
gave its sons for the defence of the, law in Benito Juarez. The triumph of the 
national cause was finally obtained, and the capital of the republic offered a seat 
in its palace to the legitimate President. 

Later, and through legal steps, the election for constitutional President was 
held. A portion of the people voted against you, but a majority elected you to 
that position, and you were recognized as President by all parties. 

From that time the opposition (to which party I belong) has criticised your 
official acts through the press, but always lawfully, and never have advised that 
you should be dispossessed by force of arms of your position. 

This, without doubt, would be sufficient to prove the respect rendered by 
Mexicans for duly elected authorities; but God, who, doubtless, wished to de- 
monstrate in a stronger manner our respect for the law, caused foreign inter- 
vention to be landed on our shores, so as to completely prove our solidity. In 
vain have Napoleon and his soldiers tried to disavow, and caused to be disavowed, 
the President of Mexico. The invader has overrun our country for three 
years, in every direction, and has been unable to overturn the lawful pedestal 
on which our banner rests. All the. forces who rise to defend the republic do 
it in the name of Juarez, the laws which are given forth are signed by Juarez, 
and an account of all the battles won or lost is made to Juarez, and the Mexican 
United States, who follow no model not fashioned by the law, acknowledge no 
other authority nor legitimate power excepting that of Juarez. It will, doubt- 
less, be asked, if it is the j> erson who accomplishes all this acknowledgment. 
Is it Benito Juarez, solely as Benito Juarez, who does all this % Undoubtedly 
no. He may be possessed of sufficient virtues to command great respect, but 
what the Mexican United States and society recognize is not Benito Juarez, but 
the legality of the law. 

Well, sir, after these hasty remarks and reflections, imagine my surprise to 
learn that a few Mexicans (residing in New York, calling themselves your 
friends, and also of our nationality, without being one or other) say, that not- 
withstanding your term of office has expired, you ought to continue in power, 
alleging reasons which are far from being satisfactory. These persons, unwit- 
tingly, are striving to dim the glory of your term, and would hurl us into sad 
confusion. No one is ignorant of the path pursued from the time of Ayutla to 
this date, yet it seems as if this interesting branch of Mexican history is not known 
by these imprudent advisers. The republic has no other method of being saved 
except through a respect for its laws, and if consent was given, through a false 
conviction, to their counsels to violate legality, any one would hereafter have the 
right to rise as sovereign and rule at his pleasure. 

One of the reasons given by those who wish you to continue as President is, that 
General Gonzalez Ortega will not maintain the rights of the nation with safety, 
and will occasion the loss of a country which you have so worthily defended. 
I do not wish to judge of this. It may be that they are right, or they may be 
wrong; but what there is no doubt about is, that your continuation in office 
illegally, and the resistance to turn over the government which the law demands 
should be turned over, would make you, not the President of the republic of 
Mexico, but only a revolutionist. One great proof of the obedience of a people 
who love republican institutions to their laws is, that after the death of Lincoln, 
Johnson, without a murmur from the masses, took his seat as President. Europe, 
which accused the republics of being based on false systems of government, on 
seeing this changed its tone, and loudly sang a thousand praises in honor of the 
system which it had attacked. When, finally, the universe has understood that 



448 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

it. makes but little difference to a people, who obey their laws, who disappears, 
and that order is still maintained ; when we have such glorious examples before 
us, shall we, Mexicans, be the first to defile the republic, and give our more 
scandalous example to the world 1 Which would be greater for Juarez — to 
revolutionize and anarchize his country, or deliver up the trust which the law 
demands, and thus satisfy both the law and his conscience 1 How grand a 
spectacle would it be to see on the wide desert of Mexican politics, where there 
is scarcely a green spot large enough to spread our book of codes, to see two 
men open this book, and, changing the leaves, take or leave power without a 
struggle and in perfect h armony. What chief of Mexico would doubt the validity 
of this aet, and would not take courage to plume his ambition in honorable flight? 
The occupation by Johnson of his elevated position would be no more an act 
worthy to be extolled as belonging to the republican form of government than 
would be offered by you by so just an example. Then would all the severe 
criticisms of many writers, who exaggerate and even misunderstand our manner 
of government, be tempered in their censures, and these scribblers no more throw 
dirt in our faces. Then would the celebrated Richard dobden be once more in 
the wrong, for he has declared that the republic of Mexico was ungovernable, 
and that civilization would never enter its doors. 

Yes, Mr, Juarez, you can now be the greatest or most contemptible man of 
our country. Your conduct can either lower us to the lowest depths or elevate 
us to the orbits of great nations. Do not become responsible to future genera- 
tions for evil consequences, nor lend a willing ear to aught but the voice of the 
law and your own conscience. Fortunately you are in the position to act as 
few others. You have borne the national standard nobly for three years and 
one-half, in cities and in mountains, and on the same Mexican soil you can turn 
it over to your successor. If he takes it to the capital of the republic, not on 
this account will your glory be dimmed ; but if, unhappily, this flag should be 
dishonored in the hands of the new President, there will remain the satisfaction 
to you of having been able to fulfil what others could not do. 

Excuse my thus writing to you ; and I repeat that if these remarks are not 
the best counsels I can give, they are still to the point. 
Respectfully, 

JOAQUIN VILLALOBOS. 

Benito Juarez. 



The Mexicans who sign below, residing at this date in New York, on account 
of not wishing to recognize either the so-called empire of Maximilian or foreign 
intervention, and knowing that the legitimate base for the sustenance of demo- 
cratic principles, and of the nationality of the Mexican republic of Mexico, 
consists in obeying blindly the fundamental compact which binds the nation 
together, therefore, whatever Mexican spurns said fundamental compact is not 
worthy of consideration only as a creditor for the severest punishments : therefore, 

1st. We protest against the decree of Benito Juarez, given on the 8th of 
November, 1865, wherein he declares himself President. 

2d. We recognize as President of the republic of Mexico, during the time 
accorded to him by the law, General Jesus Gonzalez Ortega, president of the 
supreme court, and consequently legitimate successor to Mr. Benito Juarez. 

3d. A copy of this shall be sent to citizen Jesus Gonzalez Ortega, to do as 
he likes with, and the original shall be preserved for whatever may occur 
wherein it may be needed. 

JUAN TONGO, 

Colonel in the Mexican Army. 
J RIVERA. 
JUAN N. ENRIQUEZ ORESTES. 

New York, February 20, 1866. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 449 

[Enclosure No. 4.] 

Supplement to the first pamphlet of documents published by General Gonzalez 
Ortega, to excite a rebellion among his countrymen against the national gor<- 
ernment of Mexico. (No. Q.J 

Another word to the Mexican people : General Gonzalez Ortega published a 
pamphlet in this city, containing letters and other signed documents from Mexi- 
cans opposed to the decrees of the national government, issued the 8th of 
November last, concerning the continuation of Juarez's presidential term and 
Ortega's responsibility. He says he did not publish many answers to letters 
addressed to persons at a distance, because they were private, as if a public 
opinion could not be expressed in a private letter, as it is done by Patoni, Prieto, 
and Villalobos, in their letters, published by Ortega in his pamphlet. We do 
not think the resolutions drawn up in New York, by Tongo and Jacob Rivera, 
and Priest Henry Orestes, as a public document. To supply Ortega's omission, 
we publish this pamphlet as a supplement to his. It contains the replies of 
Berriozabal, Zarco, Baz, Tovar, Cuevas, and Robert, to the circular mentioned, 
which Ortega did not publish because they were private. There is also one 
letter from Alejandro Garcia, addressed to Juarez, expressing his sentiments 
and those of his constituents, on the subject of the decrees ; and one from Gre- 
gorio Mendez, governor of Tabasco, to Juarez, on the same subject. We also 
insert a note of Mr. Romero, Mexican minister, to the government of the United 
States, and Mr. Seward's reply, on the same subject. A letter from Joaquin 
Villalobos to General Green Clay Smith, member of Congress from Kentucky, 
and answer, are added. 

We could have inserted many more from distinguished patriots, who are 
fighting for independence, but we refrain, because our only aim is to complete 
the collection of documents published by General Ortega, with letters he has 
omitted. For the same reason we make no comments. Yet it is a mystery to 
us why General Ortega made such an incomplete publication, compelling us to 
finish it, and thus make it impartial. The general's antecedents prevent us from 
suspecting him of wishing to aid the enemy, and yet we must say, that every 
attempt to disparage the republic is aid to the enemy. Did Mr. Ortega reflect, 
that if the national government at Paso del Norte is not recognized, there is no 
other to acknowledge but Maximilian's? Can he assert that Mexico has no 
government, neither in fact nor in law? If the United States should disavow 
the government of Juarez, would they recognize that of Ortega, not as good ? 
The probability is the United States would say, " Since there is no national 
government in Mexico, there is no alternative but to recognize Maximilian," for 
they certainly would not break off all commerce with a country to which they 
are bound by many ties. Does General Ortega look at the sad picture he 
would make of our country, the delight of all its enemies ? He must see that 
his efforts to secure the presidency of the Mexican republic exciie a sedition 
against the existing government, and gives our detractors a reason to say we 
cannot govern ourselves ; that we are essentially anarchical; that, in the hour 
of calamity, when we ought to think of nothing but the country, give aid to the 
government, and lend it all our holy efforts, we raise a new party, with no aim 
but to satisfy an ignoble ambition ; we weaken ourselves and contribute to the 
triumph of our conquerors. 

As political friends of General Ortega, we will give him some advice, though 
we doubt if he needs it, after that given to his secretary bj Mr. Green Clay 
Smith. If he really thought himself entitled to the presidency, he should have 
been present at Paso del Norte before the oOth of November, 1865, to decide the 
question and take possession of the office, if it belonged to him. But that time 
has passed, and all he can now do is to say : " While the constitutional authority 
29 Mex. • 



450 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

is settling the question in dispute, I will contribute with my sword to the defence 
of independence, under the government formed by the people." 

The place for a man who has been made general by his country is not in 
foreign cities, revelling in the enchantments of a crowded population, without 
leave, without a commission or order from his government, while a foreign war 
is waged at home ; but to him, the field of honor is his distracted country. 

MANY MEXICANS. 

Washington, April 4, 1866. 



San Juan Bautista, February 2, 1866. 

Very Distinguished and Esteemed Sir : Your two acceptable letters 

reached me the 27th of October and 9th of November last. 

* # * # * * * # * 

I will have the decrees Mr. Romero sent me published to-morrow, and with 
great pleasure, for the whole State approves of them as well as myself. There 
is no man of greater merit than you in the nation, nor one who has given more 
hope by taking the supreme command at a time when constant changes created 
great distrust. The trial of Ortega is a fact that gives influence to the govern- 
ment from the morality it infuses into our society, and especially among our 
great men, accustomed to stand upon their dignity for protection, for it makes 
their offences more serious. 

G. MENDEZ. 
Don Benito Juarez, 

President of the Republic, Chihuahua. 



New York, February 23, 1866. 

Esteemed Friend : I received the circular issued at San Antonio, on the 
3d instant, only to-day. In it you ask me what I think of the decrees of Presi- 
dent Juarez, issued on the 8th of November last. In asking this question you 
say you are supported by the right the nation has to know the conduct of their 
public men. I acknowledge and approve of the right, and will act upon it 
when the time comes — that is, when I am called to account by the nation ; but 
you will excuse me for making a difference between you and the nation, and if 
I do not consider myself obliged to answer your interrogatories. You address 
me as a member of congress, and consider me as called upon to express my 
opinion about national affairs. It might be so if congress was in session, but as 
I am now out of it, I do not consider myself obliged to answei*. I was elected 
for two years, from the 15th of September, 1862, to the same time in 1864 ; so 
I am not now a member. You say : " The defence of independence demands 
that no opposing banners shall be raised." As a private Mexican citizen, who 
is not a judge of his country to decide the acts of his government, I agree with 
you, and will do my best to support that government. As there would be no 
use in the further expression of my opinion, you will pardon me for not answer- 
ing more particularly. As I am not a public character, and am not called upon 
to decide political questions and judge the acts of my government, I beg you 
to consider this a private letter. 

Yours, &c, JUAN J. BAZ. 

Don Jesus Gonzalez Ortega. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 451 

New York, February 23, 1866. 

My much Esteemed Friend : I have just received your circular of the 3d, 
from San Antonio, enclosing a protest against the decrees of the Sth of Novem- 
ber last, issued by citizen Benito Juarez, constitutional President, and his minis- 
ter Sebastian Lerdo de Tejada, and asking my opinion of those acts. 

I will not answer your note officially, because I am a member of congress, as 
you know, one of the chief bodies of the nation, absolutely independent, and 
none of its members can be called to account for a year after the close of the 
session, and then only legally by the executive or judiciary, according to cer- 
tain laws ; so if I answered you officially I would pass for an ignoramus, and 
would make myself responsible to the body to which I belong, and to the 
nation whose laws I have violated. To tell you, then, which side I take would 
be equivalent to raising one of those banners of revolt that you condemn, and 
which concerns an internal question in which I do not wish to meddle during 
this crisis of the republic. As I am a friend of order, I have always condemned 
any misconduct of my fellow-citizens. I am no blind partisan of any cause, 
and I think the unfortunate situation of our country is owing, in part, to the 
want of zeal, good judgment, morality, and purity in some of its former rulers, 
and to the odious treason of some of its native-born sons. 

At this solemn time I am only thinking of its independence, the union of all 
Mexicans who have firmness and constancy in their hearts, and are enthusiastic 
iu their efforts to repel the enemy — the invader who is trying to take the* coun- 
try the early revolutionists gave us, the same country now defended by the 
soldiers of liberty. Without a country, we would have no territory or inhabit- 
ants to enforce institutions and test legality ; no tribunals to determine the re- 
sponsibility of those who have failed to do their duty, and thus done evil to 
their country. 

On learning you were in the city of New York, I am rejoiced to hear you 
have the firm resolution of attending to national interests, and of returning to 
the territory to continue the defence of independence ; for when that is safe, all 
the rest will follow. I am sure you will provoke no discord, but will join in 
the union for salvation ; and then those who have been injured will be revenged, 
and the guilty will meet with a just punishment. • 

I did not come here of my own will, but by superior order, to fulfil a com- 
mission, which I fear I will not be able to perform for want of means. When 
my business is over and my health restored, if not ordered to remain, I will 
return to Mexico. I consider myself obliged to make this reply known to my 
fellow-members. I hope this candid answer will not diminish our former friend- 
ship. 



LEANDRO GUEVAS. 



General Jesus Gonzalez Ortega. 



New York, February 23, 1S66. 

Esteemed Friend and Comrade: I received your communication of the 
3d instant, issued at San Antonio, only this day, with several copies of your 
protest against the decrees of the Sth November of last year, and a manifest to 
the nation on the same subject. 

You ask me, as a member of congress, how I received the decrees — if I ap- 
prove them or not. In the first place, I must inform you I am not a member 
of congress, though I was at the last session, which ended in ] 864 ; so, as a 
member, I have nothing to say about the decrees. This ought to be a full an- 
swer to your question ; but, without saying whether the Juarez government is 
in fact or in law the right one, it is certainly the only one we have, and we ought 
to support it. I for one am disposed to obey all orders from it, and will stick to 
the national defence. ' 



452 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO 

ITrom your manifest and what you say in your letter I am convinced you are 
persuaded of the harm two parties would now bring to the republic. We are 
weak, and must keep united to resist the ills that foreigners would bring upon 
ras. The country must have a single government, a centre round which to con- 
centrate and to have a proper effect abroad. It would give a great advantage 
to the invaders if the country were divided. Therefore, I repeat, I will stand 
by the government in its defence of the nation. 

This resolution is entirely disinterested, for I have nothing to gain from the 
national party ; but it is my duty as a Mexican, particularly under the present 
trying circumstances, to lay aside all personalities and act for the public good. 

I do not entirely approve of the tenor of the decrees, particularly of that 
portion relating to you, for I think they can do no good in these troublous 
times, when all ought to be friendly and united in the same holy cause. I am 
glad I have taken no part in them ; for, if they are enforced, harm will certainly 
result, the country will be split into parties, and anarchy will prevail. As a 
Mexican and a friend I advise you to remain firm in your patriotism, unless you 
seek harm. The world is looking at us, and our enemies will take advantage 
of every imprudence to show tbat we cannot govern ourselves, and this they are 
constantly repeating. 1 hope you will excuse me for replying to your official 
communication in this letter ; but as I am not now a public character, and as 
you have no right to question a citizen on such a serious subject, I must return 
your note, and sign myself, &c, 

FELIPE B. BERRIOZABAL. 

General Jesus G-, Ortega. 



New York, February 24, 1866. 

Much Esteemed Friend : Your communication of the 3d from San Antonio 
cached me yesterday. You ask my opinion about the decrees of the Sth No- 
vember, prolonging the Juarez presidency. Your excuse for the interrogation 
is the right the nation has to know the conduct of its public men, and your right 
to obtain that information. 

You address me as a member of congress; I am not, nor have I been since 
1864. I am a Mexican citizen, who preferred living in a foreign country to 
submitting to French intervention, since I could be of no service to the national 
cause. But on account of my former friendship with you, and because I never 
make a mystery of my opinions, I will give them to you privately in this letter. 
I do not acknowledge you have a right to ask me these questions, but from 
courtesy I will answer them. 

If the nation hereafter desires to know what I am now doing abroad I can tell 
"A ; but till that time, I choose to keep slience. 

My former conduct in regard to legal order and progressive principles is well 
known to my fellow-countrymen, aud my efforts to maintain the supremacy of 
the law have been constant, both through the press and by public acts, and I 
have been persecuted by factions conspiring against legality and by the enemies 
of liberty. As to my approval or disapproval here of acts of the government of 
Mexico, representing our nationality, I would be failing in my duty if I excited 
(sontroversies that could only serve to strengthen the foreign usurpers. My 
only desire is the independence of our country ; in presence of this holy wish 
everything else seems low and contemptible. I insist that intervention and 
monarchy are most atrocious injustice and scandalous outrage, and that the peo- 
ple of Mexico, oppressed, conquered, disgraced, will never submit to a foreign 
yoke, but will ever struggle for their republican institutions ; and I think that 
is also the duty of those Mexicans who are living out of the country, without 
tkinking of domestic dissensions. 

The decree in which Mr. Juarez prolongs his presidential mandate seems to 
me to be given conformably to the powers granted to him by congress to sus- 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 453 

tain the situation, and they are within the restrictions imposed upon him. He 
can do anything not prohibited ; so I understand the spirit that guided congress, 
and in this conception I drew up the bill that became a law, and supported it in 
debate as a member of the committee of relations. 

As a plain citizen, I therefore recognize Juarez as the legitimate President of 
the Mexican republic, and I wish the most influence and greatest success to his 
government, the existence of which, before the world, is identified with our na- 
tionality. Do not infer from this that I approve of all the acts of the government. 
If I see some errors, I deplore them and regret them, and I think no private 
citizen should censure our ruler when the enemy is upon us. If the government 
acts wrong, makes mistakes, the day will come when it may be called to account, 
and the country will do justice and pronounce a sentence or remunerate. 

In the mean time -there is no sacrifice the aggrieved or offended in any way 
should not make for the government, no matter if it has not taken their advice 
or made use of their services. The first and least painful of these sacrifices is 
silence, because every voice that calls out against Mexico is heard in favor of 
the invader. There is only one case where silence is not necessary, in my opin- 
ion, and in which the government would lose all its legitimacy, and make the 
cause of rebellion just and holy — that is, by its accepting intervention ; but for- 
tunately this case is impossible, and on this point there is no one who does not 
feel the greatest confidence in the patriotism and constancy of the President of 
the republic. 

I have not hesitated to speak to you frankly, because I see from your com- 
munication you are opposed to the raising of two flags, and because you are 
prepared for every sacrifice to save your country. You who have the glory to 
have been one of the chief soldiers in the restoration of order, and who have 
done so much in the present foreign war, will exalt yourself more in the eyes of 
your fellow- citizens by this sacrifice, if to refrain from raising another banner in 
Mexico, to increase our dissensions, to weaken us, and to make the defence of 
independence impossible, can be called a sacrifice. 

As ] serenely contemplate the situation of our country, I do not despair of its 
future ; my only hope is to see Mexico free and independent. 

My opinion is the more impartial as I have nothing to fear or to expect from 
you or Juarez ; and I am sure, after independence is recovered, we had better 
give way to new men, who are younger and stronger, for revolutions break dowra 
those who take part in them. 

Your friend and servant, 

FRANCISCO ZARC0. 

Jesus Gonzales Ortega. 



Tlacotalpam, February 26, I860. 

Dear Sir and Fri end : I yesterday received from Mr. Eomero your esteemed 
letter of the 10th November last, mentioning your decree prolonging the presi- 
dential term, and naming General Dias chief of the eastern line, and appointing 
me second. 

I said in mine of the 14th that I had ordered a vote on the subject long 
before I received the decree and accompanying documents, and the result is a 
unanimous assent to the decrees. I am now publishing the resolutions in the 
official bulletin, which I send you as it comes out. I also send them to Mr. 
Romero for the information of the United States, and I will continue to do so, 
and will send the complete document to the department of government. 

Though I cannot send you all these resolutions at once, as I said before, you 
can act with the assurance that all the eastern line is in your favor. 

ALEJANDRO GARCIA. 

Don Benito Juarez, 

President of the Mexican Republic. 



454 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO.. 

New York, February 27, 1866. 

Very Dear Sir : I received your circular of the 3d, published in San 
Antonio, (Texas,) this day. You ask me, as a member of congress, my opinion 
in regard to the decree of the 8th November, prolonging the presidential term 
till a new election can take place. 

Believing the constitutional government has acted in conformity with the 
powers conferred upon him by congress, I have never opposed its acts, as I 
think, as you do, it would be unpatriotic. 

I tell you this, not because you have a right to ask me, but because my 
opinions are public, and politeness to you prompts me to answer you. 
Yours, &c, 

CIPRIANO ROBERT. 

Don Jesus Gonzales Ortega, Present. 



[Private.] 



New York, February 28, 1866. 

Much Esteemed Friend : I have received your circular, your protest, and 
your manifest of the 3d instant, in regard to the decree of President Juarez 
continuing his presidential term while the French continue to invade Mexico. 

I am surprised you ask my opinion in the matter, since nobody has the right 
to question me in such things. Moreover, I am not now a member of congress, 
for my term expired in 1864. But for politeness, I will tell you what I think. 
I think the President acted in accordance with article 128 of the constitution 
when he issued the decrees mentioned. Now the three powers of the nation are 
the President, the supreme court, and congress. 

The President is first, and the natural guardian elected by the people. His 
duty is to protect it under all circumstances, particularly in times of foreign 
invasion. Next to him comes the president of the supreme court of justice, 
also elected by the people, and intended to fill the President's place in case of 
default. Then comes congress, which is put last, because in troublous times 
that body cannot always be kept together. 

I could adduce many occurrences of the last eight years in support of my 
opinion ; but what I have already said will make you understand why I think 
citizen Juarez was right in promulgating the decrees, in question. And there 
is another strong reason why I must acknowledge Juarez as President of the 
republic — the troubles afflicting the country. If I had been in the country at 
the time the decrees were issued, even if I had been opposed to them, I would 
have kept my opinion secret, and continued to fight for the independence of the 
country. I am rejoiced at your resolve not to divide the party by "hoisting a 
new banner, and earnestly exhort you to join us against the usurpers of our 
nationality. 



As ever, your friend, &c, 
Don Jesus Gonzalez Ortega, 



PANTALEON TOVAR. 



New York, February 28, 1866. 
Dear Sir : I see by the papers that you, as a good American who takes an 
interest in Mexican affairs, have asked the Executive when Juarez's presidential 
term would expire, You also ask if an election has taken place, or can take 
place during intervention. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 455 

As all the documents on this subject are soon to be published, I beg you to 
wait till then, that you may learn all about it, and act accordingly. I will send 
you from time to time what is intended for publication. 
Respectfully, &c, 

JOAQUIN VILLALOBOS. 
Mr. Green Clay Smith, 

Member of House of Rejwesentatives, 

Washington, I). C. 



Washington, March 2, 1866. 
Dear Sir : Yours of the 28th has reached me. I am obliged to you for the 
information you offer in regard to the close of the administration of President 
Juarez. 

My object in offering the resolution was to have a publication of all the docu- 
ments pertaining to the subject now in the hands of the Executive, and they 
ought to be complete, for the information of Congress as well as the people. 
Your most obedient servant, 

GREEN CLAY SMITH. 
Mr. Joaciuin Villalobos, New York. 



New York, April 3, 1866. 

Much Esteemed Friend : Serious family cares have prevented me from 
making a few observations on the pamphlet of Mr. Gonzalez Ortega against 
President Juarez, and I would not now notice the production if the imperial 
papers were not discussing it. 

I don't think Mr. Gonzalez Ortega will be pleased with what the enemies of 
independence say about his protest and manifest, and I believe he will repent 
of it when he sees the consequences. He might have meant well, but he has 
certainly done ill. He will suffer enough from the diatribes of those malicious 
periodicals. 

I will proceed to give you some ideas that came into my mind when I read 
the pamphlet in which Ortega endeavors to draw obloquy upon the government, 
which he says " is located in one corner of the republic." He said, " Juarez 
is in the republic, it is true, but exists in a small corner of the territory." 

What can be Ortega's object to ask the people of New York, where he now 
is, their opinion on the subject? I cannot guess. Only to find out 1 We Mexi- 
cans abroad are not the country, and it seems almost like recognizing the inter- 
vention to remain here. What Mexicans are now the real representatives of 
the country 1 Surely not those under the foreigners and traitors, for they have 
no suffrage. But who can do this ? Those who, without bread, arms, or ammu- 
nition, oppose intervention, suffer from hunger and want of clothes, and do all 
they can for independence only to see Mexico free, with no reward, and the 
gibbet threatening them in front. 

These are the real representatives of the nation now, and Mr. Gonzalez Ortega 
ought to consult them, if he wants to know the opinion of republicans. 

Let us consider what these patriots have done since the decrees of the Sth 
November. 

General Diego Alvarez published the decrees in the south, and recognized 
the President as the true government. General Francisco de Leon, acting gov- 
ernor of Tamaulipas, submitted to General Oarvajal, appointed governor by 
Juarez. General Escobedo, governor of New Leon and commander in Coahuila, 
sent word to General Oarvajal that he was subject to -his orders. General 
Alejandro Garcia, governor of Tabasco and chief of the eastern line, continued 



456 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

to acknowledge Juarez as President. The brave General Regules is appointed 
to command the centre by this same man Juarez. Sonora, Sinaloa, and Chi- 
huahua recognize him. Thus you see all the brave men who fight are in favor 
of Juarez, and continue to stand by the chief magistrate who has supported 
the republican flag, if it is in one corner of the Mexican territory. 

But, if that is not sufficient to legalize the presidency of Juarez, if article 128 
of the constitution is not enough, we have the full powers granted him by con- 
gress on the 27th October, 1862. To show you I am right, I will cite a grave 
fact, approved by the nation. By these extra powers, the 16th June, 1864, 
Juarez called a session of congress, declaring that the clergy and federal 
employes could vote, and no certificate of residence would he required of any one, 
whether elected by a State or territory. Now, these orders are contrary to the 
constitution of 1857 ; yet the nation did not raise its voice against them, but 
elected representatives from Sinaloa, Sonora, Coahuila, New Leon, Chiapas, 
Oajaca, Chihuahua, Guerrero, Tabasco, and that part of the State of Vera Cruz 
not held by the enemy. Thus the republic supported the President in his reform 
of the constitution ; then has he not the right to do what he pleases to save that 
constitution and the independence of the republic % 1 think so. And I also 
think General Gonzalez Ortega would have done better to keep silence, and 
thus fulfil a patriotic duty, and not provoke the Sociedad newspaper to say : 
"The bold Boman who exhibited the bloody body of Csesar to the people did 
no more injury to his assassins than Gonzalez Ortega does to legality by expos- 
ing its bleeding body in garments that are not spotless, owing to his acts." 
Yours, &c, 

PANTALEON TOVAB. 

Don Sebastian Lerdo de Tejada, 

Paso del Norte. 



Further data. 

Since this supplement went to press, we have received the news that Colonel 
Naranjo and Commander Saenz refuse to join General Negrete in his protest 
against the government. Their answers to his note are too long to be inserted 
here. Negrete utters this falsehood: "The danger of the situation increases, 
because the government at Washington will not recognize Juarez. Belations 
are broken off, and will not be renewed till the new President fixes his place of 
residence." 

The circular is dated the 27th January, on the banks of the Rio Grande. 

Among other things, the colonel says in his answer : " The traitors say they 
are only pretending to adhere to the empire, and will soon show which side they 
are on." " Where is your President ? Just where you are ; and yet he presents 
himself before the entire nation from New York ! He is the personification of 
law and justice, while he condemns a man who is doing his duty at the head of 
the defenders of independence." 

The above letter is from Villaldama, the 6th of February, 1866. Commander 
Saenz says, among other things : 

"I have already seen your letter, Mr. Negrete, and I think you ought to 
know us better than to address us in that manner." 

"You were the bitter enemy of Ortega in Chihuahua, threatening to murder 
him in some way, and now you exalt him as our only saviour. 1 can hardly 
believe it, yet it is true. It was reserved for a Negrete, a Gonzalez Ortega, to 
appear in the darkest days of sorrow in their country, like unnatural sons who 
come to kill their dj'ing mother and divide her inheritance between them."" 
"Indeed, I do not think you are the pilots to save the ship containing the 
precious treasure of our independence ; you are inexperienced and have not the 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 457 

courage. This is what I think of you, when I hear you profaue the sacred 
name of country and independence, and quoting the constitution to sustain you, 
interpreting it after your own fashion, of course. But when I examine your 
speech, I find the truth is wanting, and I become indignant." "I must say to 
you for the last time, what you see here written contains my opinion, and you 
will always find me consistent." "All we want is to save our country, and Ave 
think we shall ; if not, we fall in the attempt. Ready for every sacrifice, we defy 
the world, if the world dares molest us. If the Mexican nation sink, we will 
sink Avith it." (Dated February 7, 1866.) — Supplement to No. II of the official 
paper of tlie government of the Mexican republic. 

Such is the opinion of the only ones who have a right to give it, and they 
are those who march with arms in their hands. 

P. S. — We have just received No. 11 of the official paper from Paso del Norte, 
dated 8th March, 1S66. It contains notes from Antonio Pedrin, governor of 
Lower California, and from Garcia Morales, military commander of Sonora, ap- 
plauding Juarez for issuing the decrees of the 8th November. 



[Enclosure No. 5.] 

General Gonzalez Ortega and his nine indorsers versus the Mexican nation and 
the constitutional President of its unanimous choice, with an appendix, con- 
taining accompanying documents. 

A pamphlet in English, intended for circulation in the United States, and 
prominently put forward within a few days, has been issued by a Mexican 
general, Jesus Gonzalez Ortega, a pretender to the presidency of Mexico. 

In Mexico, where, if anywhere, such an appeal is in place, scarcely a word 
in reply to it would be needed, for public opinion there, with a unanimity far 
greater even than that which re-elected Abraham Lincoln President of the 
United States, has already decided the question beyond recall. Negative proof 
of this, of itself conclusive, is afforded by the pamphlet itself. It contains, as 
appendix, what Ortega, in the title, calls "letters in ratification of his position." 
He had seven months to collect these. They are spread over twenty-six pages. 

WHO ARE ORTEGA'S INDORSERS ? 

How many of these letters are from Mexican officials % Not one. How 
many are written from Mexico at all ? Not one. How many are there in all ? 
Nine — four written from Texas and five from New York. Who are the writers ? 
Two are ex-governors of States, two ex-brigadier generals, one ex- postmaster 
general, one ex-colonel ; every one of them disaffected ex-officials, absent from 
their native country in her hour of danger and suffering. Three more make 
the list of Ortega's indorsers — one an ex-editor and two others whom nobody 
knows. 

Nine malcontent refugees ! He omitted, on his muster-roll, one additional 
supporter, whose name should have been the tenth — Manuel Ruiz, formerly act- 
ing minister of justice, who, in November last, declared for Ortega, aud in De- 
cember went over to the French. — (House Ex. Doc. No. 73, 1S66, part 2, p. 40.) 

THE VOICE OF THE MEXICAN NATION. 

How, meanwhile, during these seven months, has the announcement of 
Juarez's extension of term, necessitated by French intervention, been received ? 
Jubilantly ; by acclamation. The details would fill a volume. The governor 
of the State of Vera Cruz, Alejandro Garcia, second in command of the east- 



4^5 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

em division of the Mexican republic, in sending on (as early as February last) 
manifestoes from seventeen towns within his State, says : " The letters already 
received on this subject are too voluminous to be sent." (House Ex. Doc, 1866, 
part 2, page 52.) The manifestoes referred to (pp. 54 to 63) exhibit in brief 
and simple phrase the enthusiasm of the people. There has been throughout 
the entire nation, whether as regards officials or municipal bodies or public men, 
no exception. Not a governor of a State, not a town or a city under native 
rule, but has declared for the continuance in his present position of President 
Juarez. Nay, more, not a Mexican citizen resident in Mexico has, in public 
harangue or in printed communication, expressed disapprobation of the exten- 
sion of Juarez's term of office, or given in his adhesion to General Ortega. We 
might search in vain throughout modern history for a parallel example of na- 
tional unanimity. 

PROOFS. 

So far as proof of these statements can be supplied, without swelling this 
pamphlet beyond reasonable limits, it will be found in an appendix. Letters 
are there given from every governor, now acting as such, within the republic of 
Mexico, from distinguished officers now in the field, and from public men, all 
approving the action of Juarez in prolonging his presidency during the war. 
Several of the towns went further than this, adding an expression of their earnest 
desire that Juarez should be elected President for a second term, after the present 
war is over. 

MEXICAN SENTIMENT IN CALIFORNIA. 

But it is not to the country over which Juarez's jurisdiction extends that the 
confidence reposed in him by his countrymen is restricted. California attracts 
Mexicans in large numbers, and from that country also comes to us, through 
loyal associations and otherwise, a concurrent meed of approbation. In the 
congressional document already quoted (pp. 43 to 48) examples will be found. 
The patriotic Mexican clubs of San Francisco, of Sacramento, of Virginia City, 
and others, by addresses numerously signed, testify in the strongest terms then- 
approval of Juarez's course. Is there among these hundreds one voice for Or- 
tega ? No. Of his corporal's guard of nine not one hails from the shores of the 
Pacific. 

Here these remarks might terminate, for the question is a domestic one, as to 
which Mexicans are the sole arbiters. But it may interest some readers briefly 
to inquire whether the popular verdict is as just as it has been unanimous. 

CONSTITUTIONAL ARGUMENT. 

The articles of the Mexican constitution upon which Ortega's pretensions are 
based will be found in House Executive Document, 1862, No. 100, at page 148, 
as follows : 

Article 79. In temporary default of a President of the republic, and in the 
vacancy before the installation of the newly elected, the president of the supreme 
court of justice shall enter upon the exercise of the functions of President. 

Article 80. If the default of President be absolute, a new election shall be 
proceeded with, according to the provisions of article 76, and the one so elected 
shall exercise his functions until the last day of November of the fourth year 
following his election. 

Article 82. If, from whatever reason, the election of President shall not 
have been made and published by the first of December, upon which the change 
is to take place, or if the newly elected is not able to enter promptly upon the 
exercise of his functions, the term of the preceding President shall nevertheless 
cease, and the supreme executive power shall be deposited, ad interim, in the 
president of the supreme court of justice. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 459 

This is from the translation of the Mexican constitution officially communi- 
cated to the State Department. The concluding phrase of article 82, which 
contains the gist of the matter, reads in the original as follows : 

" El supremo poder ejecutivo se depositara interinamente en el presidents de 
a suprema corte de justicia." 

The literal translation of the word "interinamente" is "provisionally,'' 
" temporarily." And the provision is, that the supreme executive power shall 
he deposited (or, as we express it, shall vest) provisionally in the president of 
the supreme court. 

Originally, Mexico had, like the United StateSf a senate and a lower house, 
the vice-president, as with us, being president of the senate. When a change 
was made limiting the congress to a single chamber, the chief justice was se- 
lected as vice-president to fill any vacancy caused by death or other default of 
the President. 

The whole context of the articles quoted shows that the arrangement which 
placed the chief justice in the presidential chair was to be strictly a temporary 
one. " In temjwrary default of a President," (Art. 79,) the president of the 
supreme court is to take his place. Against his permanent occupation of the 
seat a jealous guard is set. In case of the President's death the chief justice is 
not allowed, as under our Constitution the Vice-President is, to serve during the 
rest of the presidential term. " If the default of President be absolute," (Art. 
80,) a new election shall be held. The policy is plain. Its spirit cannot be 
misunderstood. No one but the man actually voted for as President is, under 
any circumstances, permanently to occupy the presidential chair. 

There was jealousy on another point. An ambitious President, hoping, per- 
haps, to hold office in perpetuity, might intrigue to prevent or postpone an elec- 
tion for his successor. In order to defeat any such intrigue, it was provided 
(Art. 82) that, when the term for which a President was elected had expired, 
the executive power was to vest in the chief justice. The debates in the con- 
vention which adopted the Mexican constitution show that this was the spirit 
and intent of the provision. 

Article 82, taken alone and according to its letter, undoubtedly gives the 
presidency temporarily to Ortega, as chief justice, the words being, " If, 
from whatever reason, the election of President shall not have been made and 
published by the first of December;" and the election, in point of fact, not 
having been made and published by that day. But taken in connection with 
the articles which precede it, and in view of the well-known intent of its 
framers, and, yet more especially, interpreted in the light of that policy which 
distinguishes the Mexican constitution from ours, namely, that he only shall 
permanently act as President who was elected to be President, not he who was 
elected as a temporary substitute, it would have been a direct violation of the 
spirit of the articles quoted, had the substitute in this case become the principal. 

It will be observed that the words are not "If, from whatever cause, no elec- 
tion can be held." The contingency anticipated evidently was that in which 
an election, though possible, was not held or was not published ; a contingency 
much more likely to happen through intrigue of an unscrupulous incumbent, in 
an unsettled government like the Mexican, than among us. But, in the case 
we are considering, no man can doubt Juarez's great desire that it had been 
possible to hold an election ; and as little can we doubt that, if it had been pos- 
sible, he, by an overwhelming vote, would have been a second time the people's 
choice. 

The contingency of a foreign invasion so formidable in its proportions as to 
overrun the country, and render impossible the holding of an election at all, was 
evidently not in the minds of the framers of the constitution. Not anticipating 
it, they did not provide for it. In providing for another case they used words 
which, if we accept the letter to the exclusion of the spirit, and construe the 



460 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

word interinamente to mean indefinitely, maybe claimed to justify a proceeding 
which was clearly neither foreseen nor intended. 

But, in addition to this, the Mexican congress, in view of the military neces- 
sities which, when the French invasion began, they foresaw, granted extraor- 
dinary powers, suited to the emergency, to the President. By a law of De- 
cember 11, 1861, they decreed: 

"Art. 2. The Executive is hereby fully authorized and empowered to take 
such steps, and adopt such measures, as in his judgment may be necessary under 
the existing circumstances, without "other restrictions than that of saving the 
independence and integrity of the national territory, the form of government 
established by the constitution, and the principles and laws of reform." 

Suppose the term of election of the governor of a State had expired during 
the war, with no possibility to elect his successor, is it not certain that Juarez 
had the power, under that law, to prolong his term of office ? Is it not equally 
certain that he had the power, if he saw fit to exercise it, to prolong his own % 
Must he not have been certain that the people, almost unanimously, desired 
that prolongation 1 Has it not since been proved, beyond all denial, that they 
did ? And ought he, from motives of false delicacy, and to satisfy a technical 
scruple, to have thwarted the national will at a moment when everything — 
even the salvation of the very constitittion from which we have been quoting — 
depended upon popular unanimity, and popular confidence in the executive 
head ? That would have been to reverse what we are told of the Sabbath, 
and to say, "Mexicans were made for the constitution, not the constitution for 
Mexicans." 

"The letter killeth, but the spirit giveth life." Never was there a more com- 
plete exemplification of the text than in the present case. Blindly to follow 
the letter of the law, under circumstances in which it was clearly never meant 
to apply, and thus to violate its spirit, would have been to prefer technicality 
to vitality, and, in all human probability, to have sacrificed the life of the 
nation thereby. 

Is it strange that the Mexican people, listening to common sense, preferred 
the substance to the shadow and ratified Juarez's decision ? 

ORTEGA RESIDES IN MEW YORK. 

But the people of Mexico may have had additional cause, of a personal char- 
acter, for their decision. 

On the 28th of December, 1864, General Ortega made an application to the 
Mexican government, through the minister of foreign relations. He does not 
give the text of that application in his pamphlet ; but we find it in the Con- 
gressional document already quoted, (No. 73,) page 30. He applied for "license 
to repair to the interior of the republic, or elsewhere within Mexican coasts, to 
continue to defend with arms the independence of Mexico." And he added: 
" As the interior States are occupied by the invaders, I may have to pass some 
sea or foreign territory to realize my desires, and I hope you will inform the 
citizen President of this." 

Two days afterwards, to wit, under date December 30, 1864, his request was 
acceded to, leave being granted him to "proceed either directly or by trav- 
ersing the sea, or through some foreign country, to points of the Mexican re- 
public not occupied by the enemy, to continue to defend the national independ- 
ence," &c, but not a word about going to a foreign country, there to remain. 

Yet the said General Gonzales Ortega, leaving Mexico in February, 1865, 
and passing by way of Santa Fe to New York, instead of proceeding to any 
part of Mexico, there to fight for her independence, has absented himself even 
to the present time, throughout these darkest days of his country's history. 

Which of the two men were the people of Mexico more likely to desire as 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 461 

their standard-bearer — the patriot who has remained faithfully at his post and 
endured, even to this hour, the burden and heat of the day, or the man who, 
under cover of a license to proceed through some foreign country to points of 
the Mexican republic, there to defend her independence, went direct to New 
York, and has since spent his time chiefly in that city, leaving his country to 
her fate 1 

But these are trifles. The fact is, indeed, that the Mexican people have no 
longer any confidence in Ortega; but even if that had been otherwise, the na- 
tional decision would have been the same — in favor of their long-tried leader, 
Benito Juarez, and of the spirit of their federal constitution. 

ANIMUS AND OBJECT OF ORTEGA'S PAMPHLET. 

This appeal, by a Mexican general, to a foreign people, against the unanimous 
verdict of his own countrymen, is a scheme fraught with unmixed mischief, and 
not even redeemed, as many unprincipled schemes are, by the poor excuse of 
possible success in attaining its ostensible object. Mrs. Lavinia Janetta Horton 
Ryves, a recent claimant for royal rights in the English law courts, was as 
likely to dethrone Queen Victoria as General Ortega is to displace President 
Juarez. No sane man, even slightly conversant with the facts, for a moment 
imagines that he can. That is not the object of Ortega's pamphlet. If it had 
been, that document would have been published in Spanish and in Mexico, not 
in English, to circulate among us, who have no voice in the matter. Its object 
is, injury, by base indirection, to a noble cause. Its object is, to create doubts 
throughout this country, in the minds of the uninformed, as to the stability of 
executive authority in Mexico, for what ulterior purpose we need not inquire. 

Suffice it that the whole affair is the flimsiest pretext; an effort, transparent 
as glass, to get up the idea that there is a contest for the Mexican presidency. 
A contest! If there be, it is one in which there is the Mexican nation, in- 
cluding all its officials, civil and military, duly represented near our government 
by its accredited minister on the one side, and, on the other, nine absentees, 
without present position or influence, led by a Mexican general, brave, very 
likely, and who, in former days, may have done good service in the field, as 
Benedict Arnold did before he turned traitor to his country. 



APPENDIX. 

The following are letters, or extracts from letters, variously addressed, from 
every governor of a State in the republic of Mexico, now acting as such. It 
will be seen that every one approves Juarez's course: 

From General Diaz, governor and military commandant of the State of Oaxaca 
and commander of the eastern division, to the Mexican minister. 

Tlalpa, May 9, 1866. 

* * I have caused the publication here of the late decrees of 

the government. 

The first, with reference to the extension of the constitutional period of the 
President, has been received with great satisfaction. It is unnecessary for me 
to speak of my own views, for they are always manifested in my conduct, which 
consists in entire obedience, or in entiie withdrawal from official position, when 
my convictions do not permit my concurrence in the policy pursued. 

In the present case, the step taken by the President is, in my judgment, not 
only opportune, but the only course that is consistent with the salvation of our 
cause. 

The decree which orders the submission to trial of General Ortega and other 
officers similarly liable is, in my judgment, well founded in the ordinances and 
practice of war. 



462 CONDITION OF AFFAIES IN MEXICO. 

My opinion with reference to the strict maintenance of the ordinances is well 
known: they should always be rigorously applied. 

I believe, therefore, that the government has only done what was. its duty in 
this matter. 

I remain your attentive friend and servant, 

PORFIRIO DIAZ. 
Seiior Don Matias Romero, Washington. 






From General Garcia, governor of Vera Cruz anal second in command of the 
eastern division, to President Juarez. 

Tlacotalpam, February 26, 1866. 

Very Dear Sir and much Respected Friend : * * . * ' # 

I informed you in my letter of the 14th instant that on the 1st, before I re- 
ceived your official decree and other documents prolonging your term, I had 
sent out a circular to all the authorities within the lines to ascertain the will of 
the people. 

I have received assurances from every quarter acknowledging your right to 
continue in the presidency of the republic till another constitutional election can 
be held. 

I am now receiving the manifestoes and am publishing them in the official 
bulletin, of which I send you copies. I also send some to Mr. Romero, for any 
good use he may make of them in the United States, and I will continue to do 
so by every opportunity. When complete, I will despatch them to the depart- 
ment of government for due consideration. 

I repeat to you what I said in my last; that is, though I cannot send you 
the facts now, you may rest assured that all the eastern line will vote in the same 
way. 

Nothing new ha3 occurred since my letter of the 14th. 

I think General Diaz is in Tlajiaco, though I am not sure of it, for, in spite 
of all my efforts, I have not been able to communicate with him. 

In the hope that you will continue to favor me with your welcome letters, I 
remain your friend and servant, 

ALEJANDRO GARCIA. 

Sefior Don Benito Juarez, 

President of the Mexican Republic. 

The next letter is from the victor in the late encounter on the Rio Grande, 
in which a rich train, Avorth from one to two million of dollars, was captured. 

From General Escobcdo, governor of the State of New Leon and commander- 
in-chief of the forces on the Rio Grande, to the Mexican minister. 

Rio Blanco, April 26, 1866. 

* * * * We are all here perfectly united and decided upon the 
presidential question, and the recent decrees have been received without ques- 
tion whatever, all being disposed to continue obeying and respecting the gov- 
ernment of President Juarez. 

The same is the case in the interior, and the disposition is particularly mani- 
fested by all the liberal papers, which with so much valor and constancy have 
continued defending the national cause, even in many cases in places occupied 
by the forces of the so-called empire. All of our news from the interior is 
satisfactory. On all sides the public spirit is rising, and the adhesions to the 
farcical empire changing to the reverse. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 463 

What we require is arms, and particularly sabres for our cavalry. It is im- 
possible tbat our soldiers, armed only with an old musket, or a rifle, can compete 
with the French- cavalry, or the Austrian, or even the traitors, who are all Avell 
mounted, armed, and equipped. Nevertheless, we do not avoid the combat, 
and many times have measured arms with them with good success. 
I am your attentive and obedient servant, 

MARIANO ESCOBEDO. 
Senor Don Matias Romero, 

Washington, D. C. 



From the governor and military commandant of the State of Codkuila. 

q.ffice of the governor and military commandant of 

the State of Coahuila de Zaragoza, 

Rosas, December 8, 1865. 
As this government and command has received the supreme decree of the 
Sth of November last, prolonging the functions of the citizen President of the 
republic for the specified time, during the present state of the war, and those 
of the powers of the person who may be president of the court of justice, for 
the time necessary to the object of its prolongation, and sees that it is in con- 
formity with the spirit of the constitution, and to the interests of the republic, 
agreeable to the national will, and particularly to this State, it therefore decrees 
that it be fulfilled, and for that purpose has published it this day to the authorities 
and forces under its command, and will endeavor to give it the greatest publicity 
in the State. 

I have the honor to communicate this to you, for your information and that 
of the chief magistrate of the nation. 
Independence and liberty! 

A. S. VIESCA. 
Eduardo MuZQUIZ, Acting Secretary. 
The Citizen Minister of Relations and Government, 

Chihuahua. 



From the governor and military commander of the State of Sinaloa. 

Government and Military Dep't of State of Sinaloa, 

Concordia, December 24, 1S66. 

I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt from your department of the 
circulars of the 2Sth of October and Sth of November, and of the two decrees 
issued on that last date. 

These supreme resolutions shall be rigidly enforced by this State under my 
command, since in it is involved nothing less than the firm establishment of the 
supreme authority of the nation, and likewise, as is well understood, the 
responsibility incurred by those soldiers of the republic who have abandoned 
the cause in its hour of need, and gone abroad to foreign lands. 

Orders have been issued to circulate these welcome resolutions through all 
the districts, and to have them promulgated in general orders to the united 
brigades of Sinaloa and Jalisco. I communicate these measures to you, in order 
that through your means they may conie to the knowledge of the supreme magis- 
trate of the nation. 

Independence and liberty ! 

DOMINGO RUBI. 

F. Sepulveda, Secretary. 

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Chihuahua. 



464 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

From the governor and military commander of 'the State of Sonora. 

I have received with positive satisfaction the two decrees issued by the 
President under date of the 8th of November last, and the circular from your 
department with which you were pleased to accompany them, the first of them 
relative to the prolongation of the term of the supreme magistrate of the nation, 
as long as the condition of the foreign war in which we are involved does not 
permit a new constitutional election to be had, and the second relative to the 
prolongation of the term of the supreme magistrate of the nation, and the mode 
of supplying his place, if in the mean time he should happen to fail. 

The anomalous circumstances in which the republic unfortunately finds itself, 
the deficiency or silence of the general constitution on a point of such vital 
interest to the nation, the spirit of articles 78, 79, 80, and 82 of the same 
fundamental code, and, finally, the collection of powers bestowed on the execu- 
tive by the legislative body of the Mexican union, under date of the 11th of 
December, 1861, afford superabundant ground and justification for the first of 
the above-mentioned supreme resolutions, in which the enemies of our country 
can never see anything else than the unflinching zeal of the President for the 
maintenance of legitimate authority, the most mature examination in his measures, 
and, above all, his singular abnegation in facing a situation so stormy as the 
present one, without any other recompense than the satisfaction always caused 
by the fulfilment of duty, however onerous it may be. 

Independence and liberty ! Camp in La Noria, February 1, 1866. 

J. GARCIA MORALES. 

D. Elias, Acting Secretary. 

The Minister of Foreign Relations and Government, 

Paso del Norte. 

From Major General J. M. J. Carvajal, governor of the State of Tamaulipas. 

Santa Rosalia, June 15, 1866. 

My Dear Sir : I have now reached the territory of Tamaulipas, and find the 
people here full of good feelirjg, and resolved not only to continue their sacri- 
fices in defence of the national cause, but convinced of the necessity of an abso- 
lute obedience to the legitimate authorities, and determined to frown down all 
such ambitious plans as those of Ortega, which only serve to divide us and to 
aid the partisans of the intervention. 

1 therefore find that all are willing to obey me as governor and military com- 
mandant of this State by virtue of the appointment of President Juarez, who 
is recognized as the lawful and legitimate President of the republic, without 
there being in all the State of Tamaulipas — as there scarcely is in all the re- 
public — a single person who does not approve the decree extending the term 
of office of the President until a new election can take place. 

I am, very truly, your friend and servant, 

JOSE M. J. CARVAJAL, 
Senor Don Matias Romero, Washington. 



From Major General de Regules, governor of the State of Michoacan and 
commander-in-chief of the central at my. 

Uruapan, May 7, 1866. 
Dear Sir: I have received the two decrees issued by the department of 
foreign relations and of government on the 8th ef November of last year ; the 
one extending the term of the presidency of the republic, which you so wor- 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 465 

thily occupy, until the circumstances of the country shall permit a new appeal 
to the popular suffrage ; and the other declaring the responsibility which has 
been incurred by General Ortega, in residing for many months in a foreign 
country without the authorization for that purpose of the department of war. 
Both decrees have been well received by the forces under my command, and 
according to the news I am daily receiving, by all the inhabitants of Michoacan 
who take part in the defence of our country. 

All comprehend, what is really the truth — that is to say, that you are the one 
who for a thousand reasons should continue at the head of the nation during 
this terrible crisis, during which what is most necessary is, that he who occu- 
pies the high position in which you are placed should be able to count, as you 
can count, upon the entire confidence of the people, and which confidence it is 
felt cannot be So fully reposed in any other person. 

On the other hand, it cannot be doubted that the powers are ample under 
which you have taken these steps, and that they are in no manner opposed to 
the fundamental law, for the constitution has no provision for the case when it 
should be entirely impossible for an election to be held, as now, by reason of the 
foreign invasion. 

With reference to General Ortega, the declaration as to his responsibility is 
only too well deserved, in having abandoned, as he has, in a manner so contrary 
to his antecedents, the defence of his country at a time when it most required 
the services of all good patriots, and especially of all having any experience in 
the career of arms. 

I am your obedient servant, 

NICOLAS DE REGULES. 
President Don Benito Juarez. 



From Colonel Don Gregoria Menclez, governor and military commander of 
the State of Tabasco, to President Juarez. 

San Juan Bautista, February 2, 1866. 
Most Distinguished and Respected Sir : I have before me your two 
very acceptable favors of the 27th of October and 9th of November last. 

Your determination in regard to General Diaz, who is now fighting in Oaxaca, 
shall be duly respected by me and my subalterns. That general is truly worthy 
of his former position by his effectiveness, his valor, his honesty, and his energy, 
particularly as his disappearance depended upon causes over which he had no 
control. 

I shall take great pleasure in having the decrees sent me by Mr. Romero 
published to-morrow; they have my entire approval and that of the State. No 
person more worthy, or with greater hopes of the nation, could have been 
trusted with the supreme command than yourself, and at a time when a change 
might have caused a want of confidence, to say the least. The trial of Mr. 
Ortega is an act that gives power to the government from its principle of mo- 
rality, as it impresses upon our society and its great men the necessity of at- 
tending to their duties, and teaches them the great impropriety of derelictions 
which they often commit, thinking to be shielded by the elevation of their 
positions. 

* # * #•# # # 

I conclude with an affectionate greeting, wishing you peace and prosperity, 
and subscribing myself your obedient servant, &c, &c, 

G. MENDEZ. 
The President of the Republic, 

Don Benito Juarez, Chihuahua. 
30 Mex. 



466 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 



Extract of a Tetter from the governor of Chiapas to the Mexican consul in San 

Francisco. 

Consulate of Mexico, 

San Francisco, April 13, 1866. 
Under date of the 15th of February last, the governor of the State of Chiapas, 
Don J. Pantaleon Dominguez, writes to me as follows : 

" Informed of the contents of your favor of the 15th December last, and of 
the decrees issued by the supreme government of the republic relative to the 
prorogation of the functions of the President of the republic, and to the respon- 
sibility incurred by the citizen General Jesus G. Ortega, I have to-day 
ordered the publication and circulation of the said decrees in the State under 
my command, and that they shall be brought to the knowledge of the governors 
of the States of Tabasco and Vera Cruz, to whom also I have transcribed your 
said letter and sent a copy of the letter that you addressed to the first magis- 
trate of the nation." 

I have the honor to transcribe the same to you, that you may be pleased to 
bring the same to the knowledge of the chief magistrate of the republic. 
I renew to you the assurances of my esteem and consideration. 

JOSE A. GODOY. 
The Citizen Sebastian Lerdo de Tejada, 

Minister of Foreign Relations and of Government, Paso del Norte. 



From General Diego Alvarez, governor of the State of Guerrero. 

La Providencia, January 21, 1S66. 

* * * I have been well pleased to see the two decrees issued by the 
department of foreign relations and of government on the 8th of November 
last; the one extending the term of the piesidency which you worthily occupy 
until it shall be possible to again consult the national will by means of an elec- 
tion, and the other determining that General Gonzalez Ortega shall be submitted 
to trial. 

Both measures are well justified by the reasons upon which they are based, 
and which are fully explained in the circular of Mr. Lerdo which accompanies 
them. So far I do not believe there has been a single good Mexican in this 
State who has expressed any other opinion than in favor of these decrees, 
which the critical circumstances of the republic have imperiously required. 

^ M? tF tt * 9P ^p 

DIEGO ALVAREZ. 

President Don Benito Juarez. 



From the political chief of the Territory of Lower California to the Mexican 

consul in San Francisco. 

Mexican Consulate in San Francisco, 

San Francisco, January 24, 1866. 

Citizen Antonio Pedrin, political chief of the Territory of Lower California, 
writes to me from San Jose, under date of the 16th of the present month, as 
follows : , 

"With your acceptable communication dated the 27th of September last I 
have received the copies of the official journal which you had the goodness to 
enclose to me, and in which were published the decrees issued by the President 
of the republic through the medium of the department of foreign affairs and 
government; the one relative to the prolongation of the term of the President, 
and the other to the responsibilities of General Jesus G. Ortega. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 467 

"In acknowledging this communication, I confess with pleasure that in my 
opinion the President could not have adopted any measure more acceptable, be- 
cause, though it may affect certain partialities interested in a change of admin- 
istration, yet there is nothing more certain than that no one of our public men 
could fill the immense void that would be left by the absence from power of the 
father of the Mexican republic. In him we know that we ever find united 
faith, integrity, and constancy, fully supported by the national sentiment ; with- 
out him, God alone knows what would become of Mexico under present circum- 
stances." 

And I have the honor to transmit this to you, in order that you may be pleased 
to communicate it to the President for his information. 

I renew to you the assurance of my distinguished consideration and esteem. 

JOSE A. GODOY. 

Sebastian Lerdo de Tejada, 

Minister of Foreign Affairs and Government, Paso del Norte. 



From Major General Ramon Corona, commanding in Sinaloa and Jalisco. 

Headquarters of the Republican Army, 

United Brigades of Sinaloa and Jalisco, 

Concordia December 24, 1865. 

The circulars and supreme decrees issued from your department on the 28th 
of October and the 8th of November have been received by me. 

The common sense of the nation will see in these resolutions the confirmation 
of the supreme authority of the nation, and the assurance that the faithful de- 
fenders of the national independence are not confounded with those who, though 
bearing the name of the soldiers of the republic, abandon its banner in the hour 
of trial, and go abroad into foreign lands. 

These supreme resolutions will be made known in general orders to the regi- 
ments composing the united brigades of Sinaloa and Jalisco. 

I communicate this inf irmation to you, in order that by your means it may 
be brought to the knowledge of the supreme magistrate of the nation. 

Independence and liberty ! 

RAMON CORONA. 

The Minister of Foreign Affairs and Government, 

Chihuahua. 



From Major GeneralJuan Alvarez, commander-in-chief of the southern viilitary 

division. 

La Providencia, January 20, 1S66. 
Dear Sir and Friend : * * * * 

The two decrees issued by you on the 8th of November last appear to me to 
be both just and necessary. The extension of your presidential term until the 
circumstances of the country, now invaded by a foreign enemy, shall permit a 
new election, is the only solution of the difficulties that is presented, and it is 
a measure which is, without doubt, within the ample faculties which have been 
given to you by the national representatives ; nor can it be said that it is opposed 
to the constitution, which contemplates at least the possibility of an election. 

On the other band, if yon had delivered the place to the vice-president, the 
latter, without any legal instalment, so long as an election cannot take place, as 
it cannot for a long time, would have to continue indefinitely occupying the 
presidency, when the spirit of the constitution is that he shall only take charge 
of that office temporarily and in a provisional manner, These reasons, which 



468 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

are well explained in the circular of Mr. Lerdo, and the well-merited confidence 
which you enjoy, have caused this decree, which I have myself long desired to 
see issued, to be very well received in this State. 

With reference to the responsibility incurred by Senor Gonzales Ortega, I 
have nothing to add to the reasons set forth by the government in declaring the 
same. In my judgment they are conclusive, and however much I may lament 
the errors of a Mexican who has heretofore done good service for his country, 
the decree appears to me to be just. 

#****** * 

JUAN ALVAREZ. 

President Don Benito Juarez. 

Many letters, from General Ortega's former friends, were addressed to him, 
condemning his course and vindicating that of President Juarez. Of course, 
General Ortega suppressed them. We select two as specimens, both from mem- 
bers of the last Mexican congress. Senor Zarco was also, in 1861, Mexican 
minister of foreign affairs : 

From Se/wr Zarco to Senor Ortega. 
[Extracts.] 

New Yorr, February 24, 1866. 

My very Esteemed Friend : I have received to-day a communication from 
you, dated at San Antonio, Texas, the 3d of the present month, in which you 
ask me what course I have adopted in reference to the destruction of the legal 
order of things, and what I have done to manifest my approval or disapproba- 
tion, as the case may be, of the decrees of the 8th of November last, in which 
Senor Juarez declared that he would continue in the office of President of the 
Mexican republic. You base your interrogatory on the right which the nation 
has at all times to know what the course is of its public men, and on the obliga- 
tion which you think you have to collect the proper information. 

As you directed your interrogatory to me in the belief that I was a deputy 
to the general congress, I might limit my answer to informing you that I hold 
no such position, nor in fact any other public position whatever, since the term 
expired, in 1S64, for which 1 was elected representative by the districts of 
various States. I am, therefore, no more than a Mexican who, having held the 
position with which the people honored me, has preferred to emigrate to a 
foreign country rather than submit to the French intervention ; which resolution 
I took when my public character ceased, and after persuading myself that I had 
no opportunity to serve the national cause in any manner. 

But in courtesy to you, in consideration of our old relations of friendship, and 
because I never made ?ny mystery of my opinions, I believe it to be my duty 
to express my ideas moie at length in this letter, which is no more than that of 
a simple citizen. 

Even though 1 had a public character, and I were performing its functions in 

our country, I could not recognize in you or in any man, no matter how high 

might be his authority, the right to make me the interrogatory which you have 

addressed to me ; because, if public men should give an account to the nation 

of their actions, there is a legal method established for the purpose from which 

no one should depart. 

******** 

As to approving or disapproving here of the acts of the government of Mex- 
ico, the representative of our nationality, I should deem myself to be wanting 
in my duty if I raised controversies that only served to give strength to the 
foreign usurpers. My only desire is the independence of our country ; and in 
presence of this sacred object, all else appears to me pitiful and contemptible. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 469 

Here I should only be employed in crying out, as long as ever I could, that the 
intervention and monarchy are the most atrocious injustice, and the most scan- 
dalous iniquity; and that the people of Mexico, oppressed, conquered, unfortu- 
nate, never recognizes a foreign yoke, but struggles to break it and restore its 
republican institutions. Such I believe to be the duty of Mexicans externally, 
without thinking of domestic dissensions. 

The decree by which Senor Juarez prolongs his presidential term appears to 
me to be in conformity with the faculties conferred upon him by the congress, 
in order to meet the circumstances of the occasion, since the issuing of such a 
decree is not enumerated in the restrictions imposed upon him. He can do 
everything, except what these restrictions prohibit ; so I understand the spirit 
which actuated the congress, and with this understanding, at least, I proceeded 
to draw up the resolutions which have become a law, and to support them in 
debate, as a member of the committee on relations. 

As a simple citizen, therefore, I recognize Senor Juarez as the legitimate 

President of the Mexican republic, and I desire the greatest possible prestige 

and support for his government, whose existence, in the opinions of the world, 

is identified with our nationality. 

******** 

I contemplate the affairs of our country with serenity, without despairing of 
its future. I have no other aspiration than to see Mexico free and independent. 
My opinion is the more impartial, as having nothing either to fear or hope from 
yourself or from Senor Juarez. I entertain the conviction that, as soon as our 
independence is once established, we who have been public men should yield 
our places to newer and more vigorous men, inasmuch as civil strifes rapidly 
waste and superannuate those who take part in them. 

I am, as ever, your affectionate friend and servant, 

FRANCISCO ZARCO. 

Senor D. Jesus Gonzales Ortega. 



From SeTwr Robert to Senor Gonzalez Ortega. 

New York, February 27, 1866. 

Dear Sir : "With the documents accompanying it, I have received a circular 
from you, dated at San Antonio de Bejar, Texas, the 3d of the present month, 
in which you ask me what course I have pursued as a deputy in reference to the 
decree of the 8th of November last, issued at El Paso by the constitutional gov- 
ernment, prolonging the presidential term of Senor Juarez until the circum- 
stances of the war permit a suitable election to be held. Believing that the con- 
stitutional government has acted within the scope of the powers which, conform- 
ably to the constitution, the last congress conferred upon it, and to which congress 
I had the honor to belong, it does not seem to me, therefore, that the aforesaid 
action should be called into question, which, under present circumstances, as you 
yourself have indicated in your manifesto, would be unpatriotic. 

I have made the foregoing declaration to you, not because I thought you had 
any right to inquire as to my conduct, but because my opinions, which are founded 
on the law, are public, and my consideration for yourself induces me to comply 
with your request. 

I remain, &c, &c , 

CIPRIANO ROBERT. 

Senor Don Jesus Gonzalez Ortega, Present. 

Similar documents might be multiplied indefinitely ; but no addition is needed 
to what is already superabundant proof. 



470 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

[Enclosure No. 6. — From the official paper of the constitutional crovernment of the Mexican 
republic, Paso del Norte, June 7, 1866.] 

Corrections in General Ortega's publications. 

General Ortega published a pamphlet in New York containing all the docu- 
ments he could find to support him for the presidency, and opposing the decrees 
of the 8th of November prolonging the presidential duties till war permits anew 
election. 

He begins by saying all those who held office when the war commenced hold 
it now by this decree ; and he sent a circular to many ex-governors and con- 
gressmen living abroad, whose offices expired in 1S64. 

His pamphlet contains the only favorable answers he could get. They were 
from Epitacio Huerta, Jose Patoni, Guillermo Prieto, Fernando Pousel, Manuel 
Quegada, and Joaquin Villalobos. We did not know the last was a public 
character. The pamphlet also contains a kind of resolution, drawn up in New 
York, declaring that Ortega ought to be President of the Mexican republic, and 
it is signed by Juan Tongo, J. Rivera, and Priest Juan N. Orestes, all of them 
unknown. 

He did not print all the answers he received against his wishes, because they 
were private, as he says, when all the others were just as private. However, 
some Mexicans residing in New York took the trouble to publish the others, 
which were from Juan J. Baz, Leandro Cuevas, Felipe Berriozabal, Francisco 
Zarco, Cipriano Eobert, and Pantaleon Tovar, together with some letters from 
Alejandro Garcia, general-in- chief of the eastern line, and Gregorio Mendez, gov- 
ernor of Tabasco, favoring the decrees of the 8th of November. We thus give 
some idea of the pamphlet, and will now proceed to the corrections of it. 

Ortega published a letter supposed to be addressed to President Juarez by 
General Patoni, on the 15th of December, from Presidio del Norte. Patoni has 
just resigned a command he had held in Chihuahua up to the 9th of December, 
when the government moved to Paso del Norte, and he went to Presidio del 
Norte. That letter, says Patoni, cannot recognize the President's decree because 
he thought it ought to have been proclaimed in Chihuahua. We are authorized 
to say the President never received the letter ; but a letter from Patoni at Presidio 
was received. It was dated the 25th of December, before he left for San An- 
tonio, and spoke of government affairs without alluding to the decree. Some 
months before it was issued, while Patoni was in Chihuahua, he advised the 
President to prolong his term of office when it should expire. 

We have the diary of a person who travelled with him to Presidio. It is as 
follows : " Saturday, December 9, 1865, left Chihuahua at half past four p. m. ; 
reached Aldama at eight, and stopped for the night. Sunday, 10th, set out at half 
past four with General Patoni and Guillermo Prieto ; stopped that night at 
Coyote, where we arrived at half past five p. m. Monday, 11th, started at nine 
a. m., and got to Hormigas by two p. m. Tuesday, 12th, started at half past five 
a. m., and slept at Coyame. Wednesday, 13th, left at noon, and got to Coyamo 
by five p. m. Thursday, 14th, left at one p. m., and got to Cuchillo Parado by 
nine p. m. Prieto's carriage upset, and the wheel of Patoni's came off. Friday, 
15th, and Saturday, 16th, stopped to have the carriages repaired. Sunday, 17th, 
we left Cuchillo Parado at half past nine, and slept at Arroyo del Mimbre. Mon- 
day, 18th, set out at seven a. m. ; arrived at Mula by one p. m. Tuesday, 19th, 
set out at half past nine a. m., and arrived at Ojinaga (Presidio del Norte) at 
half past three p. m." 

This diary can be proved by persons along the road and at Presidio. Patoni's 
letter purports to have been written on the 15th of December at Presidio, four 
days before reaching that place. As to the style of the letter, it is much like the 
others in Ortega's pamphlet. Those who are acquainted with that individual 
may guess what we mean. We doubt if Patoni had anything to do with the 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 471 

letter. There is another letter in Ortega's book, supposed to be written from 
New York to the President on the 7th of October, advising against the prolonga- 
tion of the presidential term. He did not get the letter ; but he did get one, 
some months before, from Villalobos, who was in the United States trying to 
negotiate a loan. In that he said Maximilian had banished him, and robbed 
him of $10,000, and he requested the government to repay it. He was told it 
was impossible ; the government could not be responsible for his losses, and if 
he succeeded in the loan he ought to devote the whole of it to support the war 
against intervention. Ortega publishes a note from Mr. Huerta, in New York, 
the 25th of February, in which he gives himself the title of general of division. 
After the decree of 8th of November the President promoted some officers to the 
rank of major generals, and Mr. Huerta was amoug them ; yet, after this, he 
opposed the decree, and called it revolutionary, and compared it to Comonfort's 
proclamation. He said as soon as Comonfort turned he denied him, and he does 
the same with Juarez. After sending him the commission, the government ordered 
him to come home to fight against the enemy. He made some excuses at first, 
and then sided with Ortega. 

As to Prieto, when he was with the government, before the decree was pub- 
lished, he opposed the decree, because he did not think it was constitutional ; 
but he could not go for Ortega, on account of his acts in 1861, and he would 
consider it the greatest calamity if Ortega were President. Prieto repeated this 
everywhere, publicly and privately. The government knew Prieto, and knows 
him now. He was not molested then, because he seemed to be sincere in his 
opinion, but was disposed to no harm. Yet, on the 8th of December, the day 
before leaving Chihuahua, Prieto called to see the President, and asked for pro- 
motion ; promised to support him in the papers, and offered to be his biographer 
and historian. The President declined his offers, and said he did not want any 
honest opinion sacrificed. 

We hope these corrections will be sufficient, for limited space prevents further 
expatiation. 



[Enclosure No. 7. — From the official paper of the constitutional government of the Mexican 
republic, Chihuahua, September 14, 1866, No. 29.] 

Letters of Gonzalez Ortega, Santa Anna, and Prieto. 

We produce below some letters of these gentlemen, who are working for 
their private interests against the republic. Santa Anna's letter to Priest 
Ordonez may be found in the Diario del Imperio, with two from Prieto to his 
friends 

Ortega's letter, and Prieto's to Negrete, have been sent to the government. 
We make no comments on these letters, because they need none. Strange 
means these gentlemen make use of to help themselves ! Such chiefs as Tapia 
will never aid them. It is absurd to blame a minister because he acts with the 
President ; and it is equally as ridiculous to think the government would recall 
Santa Anna. His allies are those interested individuals who would destroy the 
republic for their benefit. Calumny is vain when so pateut and coming from 
persons so notorious : 

New York, April 29, 1S66. 
Respected Friend and Companion: I have received yours of the 9th, 
with contents. I hope you have received mine with the circular. It is impos- 
sible to tell you in a letter all I have done, what I intend to do, and what will 
be done in many States of the republic. The loyal cause is saved. Chihuahua 
has been taken by Terrazas ; but Don Benito says he will not leave El Paso 
yet. What does that mean ? 



472 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

I presume you have seen the papers with the diplomatic correspondence. 
The empire is dead, but there remain important questions to settle. You must 
operate in Matamoras ; this is the propitious time. Notice the effect of the 
withdrawal of the French troops, and the prohibition to Austria by the United 
States to send any more to help Maximilian. My address is 113 East Eighth 
street, New York city. If absent, the letters will be forwarded to me. Respects 
to the boys and your family. Your friend, 

JESUS G. ORTEGA. 

General Miguel Negrete, Brownsville. 



San Antonio, Texas, May 6, 1866. 

Very Good Friend : I enclose a letter to our friend Aureliano Rivera. Read 
it ; I think you will find it excellent. I anxiously expect your letters. Gen- 
eral Ortega sends much regard to you and Tapia, and says you will hear from 
him soon, and wishes you both to join him in the country's cause. He staid in 
New York to hear from California and to meet a person from the city of Mexico 
on very important business. He will soon be ready, and I congratulate you 
and the country upon the value of his services. 

I have already told you of the capture of Chihuahua by the liberals. I 
hear Lerdo has resigned his position and has joined the Santa Anna party. 
They write me this from New York, and say the news has had a serious effect 
on the Juarez party there. I don't believe it, for you know Juarez will make 
every sacrifice to keep Lerdo with him. 

Respects to Margarita and Miguelito, and all other friends, including yourself. 
Yours, &c, 

GUILLERMO PRIETO. 

General Miguel Negrete. 



San Antonio de Bejar, May 11, 1866 

Dear Friend : Ortega will be here in a few days with Huerta, Ochoa, and 
other friends, to act immediately with you and Tapia. He ought to have been 
here long ago, to save bloodshed ar«d direct operations properly. Patoni in- 
forms me that Ortega will leave New York about the end. of this month. He 
has been detained there on important business. 

Show this to Tapia and Rivera on the first opportunity. 
Your friend and servant, 

GUILLERMO PRIETO. 
General Miguel Negrete. 



San Antonio de Bejar, May 11, 1866. 

General Ortega being personally acquainted with you, and knowing your 
elevated sentiments, charges me to write you in order that you may represent 
•him in the city of Mexico. 

The general, conjointly with Messrs. Huerta, Negrete, Patoni, Berriozabal, and 
other patriots, will appear in the republic with all the means necessary to give 
due activity to our operations, as well as in order that our principles may have 
a clear and legal representation there. 

After the coup d'etat I thought to continue in the most close retirement, but 
the alliance of Santa Anna with Juarez has compelled me to alter that design, 
and brought me in contact with Mr. Ortega. I believe that the object of the 
latter gentleman is to keep up the fight without entering into questions relating 
to right of command, and by no means take up arms against those of our friends 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 473 

who are engaged in the same struggle, even though they do invoke the name of 
Juarez. Hence you can represent Mr. Ortega consistently with your refined 
patriotic sentiments. You can communicate with Mr. Ortega either directly, 
without further formalities, or through me. 

As the American force which is at our service has not yet heen ahle to pro- 
vide itself with what it needs, Mr. Ortega has been forced to delay until now ; 
hut I have faith in his making up for lost time. Commence, then, your labors 

at once. Write according to what Mr. N tells you. I send him also a 

communication now. Inquire of him as to the way of writing to me. 
Ever yours, 

GUILLERMO PRIETO. 

Sefior Don Juan Mateos, Mexico. 



San Antonio de Bejab, June 4, 1S66. 

Dear Friend : I have been constantly writing to you without having re- 
ceived as yet a single reply. I am ill with dropsy ; and, instead of relief from 
the quarter whence I should expect it, I have to complain that my trouble is 
increased by your silence. Any misunderstanding with you can have but sad 
consequences for our cause, and will raise up difficulties hereafter; but it depends 
upon your good will to avert such a result. 

From what I see in the public prints, and ascertain by sounding public opinion, 
as well as from the faint echoes which reach my ears from all sides, I am forced 
to conclude that you [here the original Spanish shows that the writer is address- 
ing more than one party. — Ed. Herald] are not satisfied with justifications of 
Juarez in his attempt at usurpation, but you even represent that act as one of 
heroism, as one of those noble sacrifices which great men make when risking their 
popularity and even renown for the salvation of their country. You compare 
Juarez to Quintus Curtius, [Marcus Curtius is, no doubt, meant. — Ed. Herald,] 
rushing into the abyss to save Rome. You look upon the question at issue 
entirely in a personal light; you speak of the glorious tradition followed out by 
Juarez, and compare it with what yon style the discomfitures and puerilities 
of Ortega. But the point of difficulty does not lie there ; it consists in the sub- 
stitution of arbitrary power for law; in the dethronement of right to make way 
for usurpation. Ever since Juarez has cast aside legality as the rule of his 
public actions, he has been, as it were, halting in his movements; he holds on to 
the interests of his accomplices with more tenacity than he adheres to the real 
welfare of his country. He is forced to flatter those around him, and he can, in 
consequence, give but little thought to the wants of our people. 

But you should have taken warning when Santa Anna presented himself on the 
scene as the ally of Juarez. Santa Anna wished to have the empire; he pro- 
nounced in favor of it. In iufamy and treason he has outrivalled ; but 

Saligny, as well as the head of the empire, found him too black with dishonor to 
have aught to do with him. Do you know what that bartered conscience, that 
foul wreck, is steering after? His own profit in some diplomatic speculation. 

And, indeed, , led somehow estray, has been used to bring Juarez and- 

Santa Anna together. Well, the latter is to be made the instrument, through 
this connection, for satisfying the wishes of France and of the traitors who sold 
our country. 

We had suspected some such mean farce, and what occurred on the removal 
of the seat'of government to Chihuahua showed that our foresight was correct. 
Men who were imperialists but the day before, gave banquets to Juarez ; the 
only absentees from such festivities, the only parties who were not received at 
them, were such as, like ourselves, had faithfully followed our national banner 
from the frontiers under his lead. Were we to accept Juarez's usurpation, cow- 



474 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

ardly approve the dark and perfidious policy of Lerdo, and make common cause 
with those who pursue Gonzalez Ortega with infectives and injury, we should 
be violating law and trampling upon the interest of our country. Such a course 
could only pave the way for numberless evils, and compromise the future weal 
of our country to a most deplorable extent. 

In New York we have no representatives other than bureaucratic ones. This 
is the result of Romero's sad policy. I understand well your reasons for stav- 
ing off discussion at a time when our national troubles are unabated ; but you 
should labor to form opinion among your friends, to prepare the means that 
should serve in the defence of a cause that is just, and to gather the materials 
that will insure happiness to our country after the triumph of the principles of 
social progress. I trust that you will gather your friends together, and that you 
will write to your acquaintances abroad on this subject. Answer me. 
Your devoted friend, 

GUILLERMO PRIETO. 

P. S. — Wiite me under any name you please, but take care to mark one of 
the corners of the envelope thus — B. 167. 

Sefior Don Juan Mateos, Mexico. 



[Enclosure No. 8. — From the official paper of the constitutional government of the Mexican 
republic, Chihuahua, September 22, 18b6. ] 

Prieto's letters. — We give another of his letters found in the Diario del Im- 
perio of the 7th of August last. 

We make no comments ; we only republish it to show how discord is tried to 
be produced in the national cause. 

His abuse of the President will not be noticed. He has a private grudge 
against Tejada. Speaking of Tapia, we said in our last number that Prieto 
called all he pleased his friends without consulting them. To prove this we 
insert a letter from Berriozabal, published in the New York Herald, with a pro- 
clamation by General Vega, in California. We insert Ignacio Pena Barragan's 
safe conduct to quit the city of Mexico, together with part of a letter from Mon- 
terey concerning Prieto: 

San Antonio, May 6, 1866. 

My Dear Fellow: It seems impossible to get a letter from you, though I 
begged you to write to me. Are you so frightened by Juarez's ambition you 
cannot write ? They say his decrees of the 8th November have been well re- 
ceived, and I believe it ; nothing surprises me now. 

You decide without investigating the case, because you compare a routed hero 
to a victorious one; because you distinguish between one who left the field of 
glory to spend his time riotously in New York; because you think all good 
officers side with Juarez; because you think the Juarez policy is right; but 
you are all mistaken, and you will see. 

We are not for persons, and if Juarez and Ortega were contrasted, they would 
both lose. Ortega did not desert the cause any more than Doblado, Berriozabal, 
Alvarez, and Pena Barragan ; he left, by permission, and did not return, because 
he was ordered to be shot if he came back, like a traitor. As to the liberal 
chiefs, they all have indulgences from year to year. Oanales, the most respect- 
able, supports Ortega; so does Aureliano, Placido Vega, Huerta, Patoni, Que- 
sada, Negrete, Tapia, Gomez, and many others; not excepting Oortinas, who 
joined Garza, the traitor. So you see if discord is introduced, and the rumor of 
it reaches the United States, it will ruin us. 

The policy of the rector of San Udefenso is to compromise with the traitors. 
He hates all reformers; he believes in nothing and respects nobody. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 475 

I do not mean to praise Ortega, or to create a disturbance; but I will support 
all who are struggling for indepeDdence. But we wbo are out of tbe country 
ought to know tbe truth, and unite with the most intelligent in the good cause. 

Ortega wants to go back and fight, to show that he has been slandered. For 
my part, when I get my family into a safe place, I will be ready to fight with 
Naranjo, Canales, or any other, not caring who is President ; only bent on mortal 
war against Frenchmen and traitors. Adieu. Write to me. 

GUILLERMO PRIETO. 

Direct your letters to some friend in Orleans, and get him to send them to me 
direct. 



THE REVOLUTION IN MEXICO. 

To the editor of the Herald: r 

In your issue of to-day you have published a letter signed "Guillermo 
Prieto," and dated ' : San Antonio Bejar, May 11, 1806," in which it is stated 
that General Gonzalez Ortega, together with Messrs. Huerta, Negrete, Patoni, 
and Berriozabal, will appear in the Mexican territory to give a new impulse, 
with large resources, to the defence of the republic, and "a full and legal repre- 
sentation to our principles," says Mr. Prieto. As this gentleman is known to 
advocate the pretensions of General Gonzalez Ortega to the presidency of 
Mexico, the meaning of his quoted words is very plain. Now, in what concerns 
me personally, I have to say that Mr. Prieto's statement is as false and ground- 
less as the alliance of President Juarez and Santa Anna, to which he alludes. 
General Gonzalez Ortega and my friends residing in this country know full 
well my position in regard to the unlucky question raised by this general claim- 
ing the presidential chair ; but some persons in Mexico might be induced into 
error by such loose assertions as Mr. Prieto's, and that is the reason I request 
of you the publication of these lines. The only truth contained in the cited 
letter, so far as relates to me, is that I shall soon go to my country in order to 
continue fighting for its independence and republican institutions, but it will be 
under the authority of its national government, now sitting at Chihuahua, the 
only one I have to obey as a general of the republic. 
I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

FELIPE B. BERRIOZABAL. 

New York, August 16, 1866. 



From P. Vega to Sebastian Lerdo de Tejado, minister of relations and gov- 
ernment. 

Chois, September 7, 1S66. 
On leaving San Francisco, the 8th of July, I informed you and our minister 
in Washington that I was about to return to the republic. I came to Boca de 
las Piedras, in the Fuerte district, on the 7th of August last, intending to join 
the President, but I have been detained. 

1 take the liberty to send you a feAv copies of the proclamation I intend to 
make, and I hope you will approve of them. 
Yours, &c, 

P. VEGA. 

THE PROCLAMATION. 

Fellow-Countrymen : Fate has been against me in tbe foreign commission 
intrusted to me by the supreme government of the republic ; and I have thus 
been forced to absent myself from the seat of war, where, as a loyal Mexican, I 
was giving my best services to my country. But, thank Heaven, I am back 
upon the soil that gave me birth, and will have the gratification to offer myself 
a sacrifice in defence of the independence and liberty of my country. 



476 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

While I was away I was rejoiced to hear you had saved the State from 
falling a pray to infamous invaders. Sinaloa has acted gloriously, and has 
distinguished herself. I congatulate citizen Rubi, our worthy governor, the 
indefatigable General Ramon Corona, the other chiefs and officers, and all of 
you, on your glorious victories, by which you have humbled the French ; and 
I exhort you not to rest a single day, and you may be sure a happy time of 
peace and prosperity will come to bless our country. In my march to the 
interior of the republic I am attended by worthy chiefs, officers, and soldiers, 
many of whom distinguished themselves at the sieges of Puebla and Oaxaca, 
and other places. I have many strangers with me, who fought bravely for the 
cause of civilization and progress of the United States, and now come to us in 
accordance with the decree of the supreme government, issued in Monterey the 
11th of August, 1864; and many good Mexicans follow me, anxious to serve 
their country. I am well supplied with arms, such as are now used in North 
America and England, and I invite you all who have no arms to join me and 
march where the first magistrate of the nation directs. Let your services be 
given in time, so that we may be the first to revel in the halls of the Monte- 
zumas. 

Your friend and companion, 

PLACIDO VEGA. 

In the town of Zaragoza, August 15, 1S66. 



Department of State, Branch of War and Navy. 

By order of his majesty the emperor, I grant a safe conduct to Don Ignacio 
de la Pena y Barragan to pass freely, and with all safety, to live at the Hacienda 
del Hospital, near Ouantla de Morelos ; and the military authorities are charged 
not to prosecute him or molest him on account of his past political conduct. And 
for his protection the present is given to him, in the palace of Mexico, on the 
sixteenth day of July, eighteen hundred and sixty-four. 

JUAN DE D. PEZA. 



Monterey, August 26, 1865. 

Sir : Don Guillermo Prieto wrote from San Antonio saying he was sorry for 
his conduct towards General Gonzalez Ortega, and asks permission to return 
here. He was directed to apply to Juarez for permission, and if it was obtained 
he would be allowed to return. 
Yours, &c , 

Mr. , in Chihuahua. 



No. 133. 

Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero. 

Department of State, 

Washington, November 13, 1866. 
Sir : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of 
the 31st ultimo, containing various documents relating to the claim of General 
Ortega to the constitutional presidency of Mexico. 

I avail myself of this occasion to renew to you the assurances of my most 
distinguished consideration. 

WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 
Senor Don M. Romero, fyc, fy-c., Sfc. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 477 

No. 134. 

Mr. Romeio to Mr. Seward. 

[Translation.] 

Mexican Legation to the United States of America, 

Washington, December S, 1S66. 
Mr. Secretary : I have the honor to remit to you a copy of No. 36 of the 
official paper of the constitutional government of the Mexican republic, of the 
3d November last, in which are published some documents which bear relation 
to the conduct wbich Don Jesus Gonzalez Ortega has observed abroad, and 
which I think will be read with interest by the government of the United States. 
I avail of this occasion to renew to you, Mr. Secretary, the assurances of my 
most distinguished consideration. 

M. ROMERO. 
Hon.- William H. Seward, §-c, fyc, 8fc. 



[Enclosure No. 1. — Translated from the official paper of tlie constitutional government of the 
Mexican republic, of November 3, JSb'6, No. 36.] 

We publish in the official portion what relates to a permission which General 
Ortega pretended to give for the coining of Mexican money abroad. Putting 
aside the pretension of this gentleman to be President of Mexico, and the at- 
tempt to exercise acts of authority within the territory of a foreign country, the 
idea of permitting the money of a nation to be coined abroad is such a thing 
as needs not be anlayzed ; at once one perceives the degradation of consenting 
to the coinage abroad of the type of a national sovereignty, as well as the incal- 
culable responsibility and innumerable abuses to which this might give place. 
Mr. Ortega said in his manifesto that although it belonged to him to exercise 
the presidency of the republic, he did not desire to come to exercise it, in order 
not to introduce discord among the defenders of the nation ; the very style of 
the manifest gave the lie to the sincerity of these expressions, and. as was to be 
supposed, he has taken upon himself promptly to go on giving them the lie by 
actions. 

He has not come to the republic, seeing that all repelled him ; but he pre- 
tends to the exercise of authority in foreign countries, and there conspires to 
procure others to support him. Already various evidences of this have been 
published, and now we place in continuation copy of an intercepted letter of 
his, which he was sending to General Negrete, according to the direction given 
therein. 

We leave to the readers to pass upon the measures by which Mr. Ortega 
seeks to gain some partisans, by appealing to suppositions which are belied the 
next day, as that the government of the United States, for instance, had recog- 
nized him. Nothing need now astonish one as to those who resolve to employ 
such measures. 



[Enclosure No. 2.] 

New York, August 28, 1S6G. 
Esteemed Sir: Enclosed herein I forward to your excellency a copy of 
the agreement into which I have entered with General J. G. Ortega for the 
establishment of a mint in San Erancisco. As I have neither the wish nor the 
expectation that said Seiior Ortega may succeed in setting up his authority and 
cabinet within the Mexican republic, as he contemplates doing, and as I desire 
to obtain this right of coining Mexican money in San Francisco, I hope that 



478 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

your excellency, as well as President Juarez, will deem it of great advantage 
to grant me this privilege on the conditions expressed in the copy which I for- 
ward herewith. All the papers, as well as the $60,000 referred to therein, are 
to pass through the hands of Minister Romero. * * * Sefior Ortega goes 
to Matamoras to-morrow or the day after, and Sefior Ochoa will be accredited 
to Washington as soon as Sefior Ortega shall have set up his government at 
Matamoras. 

We are quite elated here, because the latest news leaves no room for doubt as 
to Maximilian's departure and the ultimate triumph of the liberal cause. 

WILLIAM H. McKEE. 

Senor Don J. M. Iglesias, 

Minister of the Treasury, fyc, Chihuahua. 



[Enclosure No. 3.] 

New York, July 24, 1866. 
In the exercise of ample power for such purposes, I have given permission to 
Dr. William H. McKee to coin in the city of San Francisco, California, United 
States, money having the form, value and legality of Mexican currency, on the 
conditions which you will settle in accordance with the instructions which I 
have given you. I reserve to myself the ratification of the contract. For this 
purpose I hereby commission and authorize you to act in the premises, and this 
note shall serve as your credentials therefor. 
Independence and constitution ! 

JESUS G. ORTEGA, 
Constitutional President of the Mexican Republic. 

Citizens General Epilacio Huerto, Governor of Michoacan, 

and Fernando Maria Ortega, Governor of Puebla. 



[Enclosure No. 4.] 

The conditions agreed upon are as follows : 

Article L. The Mexican government concedes to Senor McKee the privi- 
lege of coining Mexican money in the city of San Francisco, California, United 
States. 

Art. 2. The money so coined shall have the same form, value, and legality 
as that which is now current in Mexico, and Senor McKee, or the company he 
represents, shall be held responsible therefor. 

Art. 3. The government shall appoint an employe, to be paid out of the 
public treasury ; he shall represent said government in said mint. 

Art. 4. The present grant is for the term of thirty years from date ; and no 
other similar one shall be made for a mint in any place within the United States. 

Art. 5. Senor McKee shall pay $60,000 in consideration of this privilege, as 
soon as the Mexican minister, appointed by said President, shall be recognized 
at Washington. 

Art. 6. There shall be two copies of this agreement made out, and signed by 
both parties, one for each. 

E. huerta. 

F. M. ORTEGA. 
W. H. McKEE. 

New York, July 24, 1866. 

I approve and ratify the foregoing contract, in the name of the republic of 
Mexico, as constitutional President of that nation. 

JESUS G. ORTEGA. 
New York, July 24, 1866. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 479 

[Enclosure No. 5.] 

Ministry of the Treasury axd Public Credit, 

ChihuaJiua, October 29, 1S66. 

Enclosed in your communication of August 28 last, which I received long 
after due, were copies of the documents relating to a contract into which Gene- 
ral J. G. Ortega went through the forms of making with you for the establish- 
ing of a mint in San Francisco, California. 

General Gonzalez Ortega, who calls himself the constitutional President of the 
Mexican republic, and who pretends to govern said republic from abroad, exer- 
cises therein no public authority of any kind whatsoever, nor has he the right to 
exercise any. Hence the acts by which he aims at exercising the authority of 
legitimate governor of Mexico are null and void. 

As to the request which you make that the citizen President of the republic, 
Benito Juarez, will grant the privilege for the establishment of a mint in San Fran- 
cisco, in California, on the same conditions as those contained in the contract 
which General Gonzalez Ortega pretends to have made with you, it is impos- 
sible to accede to such a request. The coinage of money being one of the attrib- 
utes of the national sovereignty, it should not take place outside of the national 
territory over which such sovereignty is exercised. No motive nor any condi- 
tion can justify such a concession. 

Independence, liberty, and reform ! 

IGLESIAS. 

Dr. Wm. H. McKee. 



[Enclosure No. 6. 3 

New York, June 25, 1S66. 

Dear Friend : I venture to address you this letter; but I do so on account 
of the urgency of the affair, and because I am aware of your patriotism. 

The United States government has refused to recognize Don Benito Juarez, 
on account of his lack of any legitimate title or constitutional power to negotiate 
with said government a loan of 850,000,000, and in consequence of this it has 
recognized me as the constitutional President. I believe that before ten days 
the loan of fifty millions of dollars will be all settled. 

It is important that you send Avord immediately to Garcia de la Cadena, to 
Ausa, and to Sanchez Roman, urging that they issue proclamations recognizing 
the constitutional government of Mexico, aud setting forth that such has always 
been the sentiment of the State of Zacatecas, whose guide is always the law, 
and whose standard is the constitution, and stating that this proclamation is 
made at the present time in order to solemuly record that sentiment of the peo- 
ple of Zacatecas, and to aid the national cause. Have them to publish the 
proclamation, so that not only the attention of the public, but that of the press, 
may be attracted thereto. I wish that the State of Zacatecas may occupy a 
worthy rank in the salvation of our law, our independence, and the forms of 
republican government. I desire that the State of Aguas Calientes should figure 
in the same position. \ 

Tell Garcia de la Cadena that Ferniza acted with shrewdness and prudence, 
and did not deliver the letters to those for whom they were intended, but he 
retains them still in his possession ; so Senor Cadena is not in the least compro- 
mised. Ferniza will set out in a few days, and will cross the deserts on the 
frontier. He will bear with him instructions for the arrangement of some way 
to forward arms and means on a scale corresponding to an affair of so great 
magnitude as the present. Send word also to Aureliano, and give him a copy 
of this note. 



480 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN. MEXICO. 

In a few days I will set out for Mexico. I will cross the frontier ; and, should 
not any obstacle be put in my way by the United States, I mean to cross with a 
lot of American volunteers. Still, I do not think that any difficulty will arise, 
judging from the letters which I receive. 

Tbe personal interests of Don Benito Juarez have prevented Mexico from 
realizing her salvation. She could have secured it had he not broken the order 
established by law. The blood that has been uselessly spilt these last few 
months is exclusively upon him ; for the efforts made by the Mexican people 
have proved feeble and sterile through the fault of said Don Benito Juarez. 

We should learn from a foreign nation how to respect law. Tell all our 
friends, in my name, that before six or eight months we shall have finished our 
work. 

Your friend, 

J. G. ORTEGA. 
General Don Miguel Negrete. 

September 10, 1866. 
True copy i 

Dr. ARROYO. 
R. Garcia Hernandez, Secretary. 



[Enclosure No. 7. — From the New York Tribune, November 21, 1866.] 

To the editor of the Neio York Tribune: 

Sir : If Ortega has done nothing on United States soil which maybe properly 
construed into conspiracy against a neighboring power with which we hold 
friendly relations, and has been guilty of no other act violating the neutrality 
laws, then I concur wilh j^ou in the opinion that our government has no right 
to interfere by arresting him. His conduct, after crossing the Rio Grande, is 
the affair of Mexico ; and it does not alter the law of the case that the Mexican 
people, with a unanimity far greater even than that which was shown in our own 
recent elections, have already decided against him and for Juarez. 

But I do not agree in the view you seem inclined to take of that decision. I 
think the Mexicans decided rightfully as well as unanimously. It would be 
superfluous to debate this here, in the United States, were it not that an opinion 
favorable to Ortega's claims, if given in a paper so influential as the Tribune, 
must place serious embarrassments in the way of the Mexican liberals. This, 
I know well, is a result furthest possible from your intentions. 

But thus it acts. For four years past the French invaders have had posses- 
sion of the Mexican seaports, and have seized and appropriated all the revenue 
from imports. But nearly four-fifths of the public revenues of the Mexican 
government is derived from the tariff. Add to this that the people, harassed 
and pillaged, have had little means left, however well disposed, to contribute 
support to the constitutional government. That government, thus nearly beg- 
gared, had nothing left but the resort to which all civilized, nations have at times 
been forced — a public loan. She needs imperatively arms, munitions, and mili- 
tary appointments ; but she has nothing with which to pay for these except her 
bonds, duly authorized by Juarez and certified by his accredited minister. 
Though her entire public debt does not exceed $100,000,000, yet, because of 
her uncertain fortunes, her credit is low, and she has to dispose of these bonds 
at 60 cents to the dollar in payment of the supplies she needs. You make it 
very difficult for her to do even this ; you strengthen the hands of speculators 
who. seek to impose upon her still harder conditions, for you supply to them 
arguments going to depreciate the credit of the Juarez government. It is bad 
enough for an exhausted nation to have to receive 60 and pay some day 100 in 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 481 

return, with seven per cent, interest on that 100 till paid. You aggravate the 
hardship when you intimate that perhaps Juarez has no rightful claim to the 
position he holds. 

If he had, in point of fact, no such claim, good and well : let the truth be 
told, no matter whom it injures. But is that so? 

The technical period when Juarez's term expired was the 1st of December 
last. Seven months later, Ortega put forth his claim in a pamphlet, in Eng- 
lish, published here; an appeal, in fact, against his own nation to ours. This 
pamphlet had an appendix of twenty-six pages, entitled "Letters in ratification 
of his position." It discloses the fact that, after seven months' delay, Ortega 
could muster but nine indorsers, every one Mexican refugees — four living in 
Texas, five in New York. There were two ex-governors of States, two ex-brig- 
adier generals, one ex-postmaster general, one ex-colonel — all disaffected officials 
like Ortega himself, and, like him, all absent from their native country in her 
hour of danger and suffering. Three more, an ex-editor and two unknown 
individuals, made up the list. 

To this pamphlet the friends of Juarez issued a reply. Its appendix contains 
letters from every governor of a State in Mexico, then acting as such, to the 
number of twelve, besides despatches from the principal corps commanders then 
in the field, and communications from other public men. Every one of these 
sanctions Juarez's action, and approves, in unqualified terms, his continuance 
in office as legal and in accordance with the will of the people, so far as it was 
possible to ascertain that will. 

The pamphlet further says: "Not a governor of a State, not a town or city 
under native rule, but has declared for the continuance in his present position 
of President Juarez. Nay uK»re — not a Mexican citizen, resident in Mexico, 
has, in public harangue or in private communication, expressed disapprobation 
of the extension of Juarez's term of office." 

The grounds upon which this acquiescence rests (aside from the love and 
trust borne by the nation for their long-tried leader, Benito Juarez) seem to be 
the following: 

The Mexican constitution differs from ours in this — that no one but the man 
actually voted for as President is, under any circumstances, permanently to 
occupy the presidential chair. In temporary default of a President, (Art. 79,) 
the president of the supreme court of justice shall serve. If the default of 
President be absolute, (Art. 80,) a new election shall be forthwith held. If the 
election of President shall not have been published by the first of December, 
(Art. 82,) the president of the supreme court shall be President provisionally. 
The word in the original is intermamente, strictly translated temporarily. 

Taken alone and according to its letter, article 82 gives the presidency tem- 
porarily to Ortega as chief justice. But, taken in connection with the articles 
which precede it, and in view of the well-known intent of its framers, and yet 
more especially interpreted in the light of that policy which distinguishes the 
Mexican constitution from ours, namely, that he only shall permanently act a3 
President who was elected to be President, not he who was elected as a tempo- 
rary substitute, it would have been a direct violation of the spirit of the consti- 
tution had the substitute, it a crisis like the present, become the principal. 

The default of the President, in his case, was absolute, not temporary, and in 
such a case there is but one constitutional remedy — a new election shall be held. 
That could not be because of the French invasion. The case provided for in 
article 82 is not one in Avhich it was impossible to hold an election, but one in 
which an election, being possible, was not held or was not published. The in- 
tent was to guard against some intrigue of an unscrupulous incumbent, a contin- 
gency much more likely to happen under an unsettled government like the 
Mexican than among us. But no one doubts Juarez's great desire, had it been 
possible, to hold an election ; and as little can we doubt that, in case of such an 
31. Mex. 



482 CONDITION OF AFFAIKS IN MEXICO. 

election, he would have been, by an overwhelming majority, the people's choice. 

These are the arguments of Juarez's friends. Good or bad, they have been 
indorsed by the Mexicans themselves, the sole judges in this case. To go be- 
hind their decision is to do them an injury by increasing the difficulty of re- 
establishing among them constitutional rule. 

Perhaps you doubt whether they are steady and patriotic enough to do this. 
I do not doubt it. I think we are too much inclined to undervalue other races 
than our own, and too little disposed to make allowance for the difficulties under 
which such races often labor. The Mexican race, when Oortez found them, 
mild and friendly, had made encouraging advances towards civilization. Since 
then they have been trodden under the heel of despotism. The French usur- 
pation is but the last in a long series of outrages. For nearly three centuries 
they suffered under Spanish viceregal rule, intensified by religious bigotry, as 
odious a government as the world ever saw ; and when relieved from that they 
fell into the hands of an unscrupulous church, with vast temporal possesions — 
$300,000,000 of real estate, including half the city of Mexico. The ecclesiastical 
revenues from this source amounted to $25,000,000 annually, amply sufficient in 
that country to carry on war, and employed by the Mexican church throughout the 
last thirty years for that very purpose against the liberals who sought to throw off 
so grievous a burden. These last succeeded in that attempt only in 1859, under 
Juarez, all the church property beyond its legitimate means of support being 
then secularized — that is, disposed of for the public benefit. 

The Mexicans had their slavery as well as we; only ours was secular, theirs 
ecclesiastical. They, like us, have rid themselves of it, and are prepared, as we 
are, to enter untramelled on a new career of progress. Let us bid them God- 
speed. Let us place no stumbling-block in their way; that is the least we can 
do for them. 

That the Mexican republicans will ever recognize, or that we, in any shape, 
shall ever assume the $300,000,000 of debt incurred by France and by Maxi- 
milian in an iniquitous attempt to subvert a republic and erect by force a 
monarchy on its ruins, is incredible. No Mexican congress will ever ask for 
such assumption, and no American congress will ever agree to it. 

A FRIEND TO REPUBLICAN MEXICO. 

New York, November 17, 1866. 



No. 135. 

Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero. 

Department of State, 

Washington, December 17, 1866. 
Sir : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of 
the 8th instant, containing a copy of the official paper of your government, (No. 
36,) of the 3d of November last, in which the situation of Don Luis Gonzalez 
Ortega is referred to, and to thank you for its transmission. 

I embrace the present occasion, sir, to reiterate to you expressions of my most 
distinguished consideration. 

WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 
Senor Don M. Romero, -fyc., fyc,, fyc. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 483 

No. 136. 
Mr. Stanton to Mr. Seward. 

War Department, 

Washington City, December S, 1SG6. 
Sir : I enclose herewith a copy of a report received this day from General 
Grant, transmitting a protest of J. G. Ortega against his arrest, and expressing 
concurrence in the remarks thereon of Major General Sheridan, by whom the 
protest was forwarded. 

I have the honor to be, sir, your obedient servant, 

EDWIN M. STANTON, 

Secretary of War. 
Hon. William H. Seward, 

Secretary of State. 



[Enclosure No. 1.] 
CONSTITUTIONAL PRESIDENT OF THE MEXICAN REPUBLIC. 

Brazos, November 5, 1S66. 

Captain : At the city of New Orleans, I, with six other Mexican citizens, 
embarked on board of the United States steamer St. Mary. The following are 
the names of those six : General Epitacio Heurta, ex-governor of the State of 
Michoacan ; General Fernando M. Ortega, governor and military commander of 
the State of Puebla ; Colonels Juan Tognr and Joaquin S. Ortega, Commander 
Carlos Ortega, and Captain Guilcoga. We came under the protection of the 
United States flag, because we journeyed in the waters of that nation, and in a 
steamer that raised on high the starry pavilion. We came under the safeguard 
and guarantees which the laws aiid Constitution of that republic grant to all 
strangers who tread her soil. I moreover had with me guarantees and privileges, 
with repeated protests in official documents made by the government of this 
nation, not to intervene in the internal political questions of Mexico, which to 
her alone belongs the right of salvation — guarantees which in the sense tacitly 
granted me my proper political character, that of being the constitutional Presi- 
dent of Mexico, which title I have justly obtained by a precept of the funda- 
mental law of the country, and also by the spontaneous and free vote of its people. 
It is not out of place for me to tell you here that the press of the United States 
has been extensively engaged in noting this, and that I have caused to be pub- 
lished, in English, official documents which thro w upon this question ail necessary 
light. Therefore, I believe no authority can ignore the political and military 
significance which I have in all local and foreign questions of my country. 

Upon my arrival at this place, and before I had stepped ashore, you presented 
yourself in the presence of the captain of the steamer, showing me an order 
signed by General Sheridan, commander of the department of the Gulf, in which 
you are ordered to arrest me, and those persons who accompany me, without 
giving any reasons for this act, (or much less having one,) because not even 
apparently have I broken the laws of neutrality of this country. What if I 
have political intention which I think of putting in practice in Mexico as a ful- 
filment of my duty, and to save my country from anarchy ; this is not, nor can 
it be made, a just reason for my apprehension in a country who has protested 
against all intervention in the politics of others. 

You complied with the order .and I was immediately arrested. I yielded to 
the force of this violent act, common and frequent in a despotic monarchy, but 
unusual in a republic like the United States. 



484 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

I only limited myself to asking a copy of the order, so as to protest against 
this act. You will please furnish me with an official copy. 

You offered to give General Sedgwick, commander of the frontier, and sta- 
tioned at Brownsville, immediate information of this act, so as to abide by his 
instructions, (for you were so ordered,) and that I might know my final destina- 
tion. In the copy of the note which you have just sent me, I perceive it is 
ordered that we shall remain in prison until further orders, unless we desire to 
return to New Orleans, which we are permitted to do, returning on the same 
steamer. Nothing is said of the reason or motive why I am imprisoned. It is 
easy to conceive that a political reason dictates it, to impede in an illegal manner, 
and against all right, my entry into Mexican territory, for no reason that I can 
comprehend now, but which posterity in its march will reveal. I do not believe 
the people of the United States or the government of that great nation participate 
in th s act. To them I look for reparation. 

I verbally informed you that the Constitution and laws of the United States 
had conceded to me certain individual guarantees which this violent act exercised 
against my person had broken. 

I asked your protection in the name of these laws, as you are actually in 
command of the American forces. You answered me, that as a soldier you 
could not ; that you must obey the orders given you by your superiors. 

I told you that, as the legitimate constitutional President of the Mexican re- 
public, and invested by that nation in that political character, my arrest signi- 
fied a marked partiality, and was equivalent to a piercing of those official com- 
promises which the United States had contracted for political and convenient 
reasons, not to intervene in the internal question of Mexico. To this you gave 
the same answer. 

Finally, I told you that it was another act of violence against my person to 
undertake to make for me the exclusive right of returning to New Orleans. 

This is equivalent to obliging me to remain in the United States contrary to 
my will. 1 said to you, also, that admitting this act of violence by which I 
was made a prisoner without those guarantees and liberties allowed by law, if I 
returned to New Orleans, would it be as a prisoner, or would I have the priv- 
ilege to dispose of my person as convenience might dictate 1 

Before might, I had at last (as is natural) to still the voice of right and reason. 
But right and reason are the great powers of this republic, and they are on my 
side, and it will not be long before they are heard. Now, I have no other 
means left me but the offering of the following protest : 

] st. I protest against the violent act of the military force exercised against 
my person, apprehending me on board the steamer St. Mary, and keeping me 
imprisoned until to-day, without any reason to justify this violent act, thereby 
disregarding individual guarantees given by the laws of this country to for- 
eigners travelling therein. 

2d. I protest in the name of the Mexican republic, whose powers I exercise 
as President thereof, against this said act, because it imparts an indirect interfer- 
ence by the armed forces of the United States in the solution of local Mexican 
questions. 

NotAvithstanding the knowledge I have of the generous and loyal sympathies 
of the American people in favor of the Mexican republic and the advancing party 
of that nation, and notwithstanding, also, the knowledge I have that this pow- 
erful moral aid can save the independence of my country, still, in what pertains to 
the privileged administration of its affairs, I do not think the American people 
have any right to interfere. 

And I again protest, as President of Mexico, against all acts which directly 
or indirectly tend by forcible means to impose upon the Mexican people, in the 
character of government, the faction represented by Mr. Benito Juarez, who 
ceased to exercise all legitimate power over that nation from the day the political 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 485 

constitution of the country so decreed, and that constitution has been broken by 
that faction. A constitution, captain, is the social reasoning of a free nation ; it 
is the act by which the people show their voluntary sovereignty, and it is the 
only base upon which a republic can rest. And when once this ceases to exist, 
then, of necessity, come chaos and anarchy. 

In the name of that same nation, and in fulfilment of my duty, I declare as 
treasonable towards the Mexican people all acts which have been and may 
be exercised by Mr. Benito Juarez, and his minister at Washington, Mr. Matias 
Romero, who by intrigue, and with the help of other means equally condemned, 
and by foreign aid and usurped power, scorning all republican principles, and 
impeding, by this, my entrance into Mexico ; although the people have no legiti- 
mate authority to protect them, and the destruction of the very origin of its con- 
stitution is passed as a necessity. 

What a conquest ! What is the standard of that peace which has cost that 
people thousands of victims and ten years of a bloody and continued war? 

You will please, captain, forward this communication to whom it may concern, 
and accept the assurances of our personal appreciation. 

Independence and constitution ! 

J. G. ORTEGA. 

Captain John Paulson, 

Post Commander, Present. 



[Enclosure No. 2. — Indorsement.] 

Headquarters Department of the Gulf, 

New Orleans, November 30, 1866. 

On or about the 24th June, 1866, the city of Matamoras was surrendered by 
the imperialists to the forces of the liberal government of Mexico, and soon 
thereafter the city of Monterey and all of eastern and northern Mexico. In 
process of time the imperial forces were driven to the valley of Mexico and the line 
connecting the city of Mexico and Vera Cruz, and it became reasonable to 
suppose that the imperial government would be driven out of the country. The 
acknowledged head of the liberal government of Mexico during all these im- 
portant events was President Juarez, and it is well known that General Ortega 
fled his country and took no part in bringing about these events, but, on the 
contrary, he, while in a foreign country, did as much as he could to counteract 
them by creating political divisions, and by the publication of real or pretended 
rights, as constitutional President of Mexico. 

So far as this went it did not interfere with my command, and there was no 
violation of our neutrality laws ; but this did not satisfy General Ortega or his 
schemers, but an appeal to arms must be made to enforce his claims, and combi- 
nations were formed in New York and Brownsville within the United States 
for an armed assertion of his claims at the expense of a violation of our neutrality 
laws. 

To counteract these machinations, and to prevent our neutrality laws, from 
being violated, my letter of October 23 to General Sedgwick was written and 
a copy of it placed in the hands of General Ortega, in the city of New Orleans. 
Not heeding this, but under the belief that we gave directions in our country 
for buncombe, General Ortega was about to cross the line of our frontier, and 
was arrested on the same principle that the Fenians were arrested in attempting 
to violate our laws by the invasion of Canada. 

Since the termination of the rebellion, the people of the United States have 
suffered in trade, from the disturbed condition of affairs on the Rio Grande line, 
about twelve million of dollars yearly — first by imperialism ; then by the hos- 



486 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

tility of foreign merchants in Matamoras, who set up such men as Canales and 
Ortega, supporting them and reimbursing themselves by passing goods out 
from the city free, or nearly free, of duty. 

P. H. SHERIDAN, 

Major General. 

Respectfully forwarded for the information of the General-in-chief. 

Headquarters United States Army, 

December 8, 1866. 

Respectfully forwarded to the Secretary of War. I concur in the views ex- 
pressed by General Sheridan in his indorsement hereon. 

U. S. GRANT, General. 



[Enclosure No. 3.] 

Telegram of General Sheridan to General Grant. 

Office U. S. Military Telegraph, War Department, 

Washington, V. C, November 27, 1866. 

[Time, 4.30 p. ro.— From New Orleans, La., November 27, 1866.] 
Sir : I am just in receipt of news from Brownsville, and fear that General 
Sedgwick, commanding the sub-district of the Rio Grande, will, for some unac- 
countable and unjustifiable reason, demand of Canales the surrender of the town 
of Matamoras, on the plea of preventing the pillage of houses of Americans, &c. 
The situation there is this : General Escobedo is in front of the city with 
about three thousand five hundred men, and Canales offered to surrender if the 
liberal government would pay the merchants who have been supporting him in 
his illegal and infamous acts. This Escobedo would not agree to. I very 
much fear that these very merchants have in some way gotten around Sedg- 
wick, and have prompted him to this action which he contemplates. I have 
heretofore notified you that these very merchants were at the bottom of all trou- 
bles over there. There is perfect harmony between Sedgwick and Escobedo, 
and no objections are made to the contemplated act of General Sedgwick. 
Should General Sedgwick act as I have some reason to expect, I will at once dis- 
approve of his action and relieve him from his command. I have telegraphed to 
General Sedgwick disapproving his contemplated act, or any action he may 
have taken in view of it. 

I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

P. H. SHERIDAN, 
Major General U. S. Army. 
General U. S. Grant, Commanding Army. 



[Enclosure No. 4. — Indorsement on the above.] 

Headquarters United States Army, 

November 30, 1866. 

Respectfully forwarded to the Secretary of War for his information. 

U. S. GRANT, General. 
(Received 3.20 p. m., November 30, 1866.) 

Respectfully referred to the Secretary of State. 

E. M. STANTON, 

Secretary of War. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 487 

[Enclosure No. 5.] 

Major General Sheridan to Brevet Major General Rawlins. 

Headquarters Department of the Gulf, 

New Orleans, La., December 11, 1866. 

General : I have the honor to make the following report of my recent trip 
to the Rio Grande frontier : 

I arrived at Brownsville at 4 o'clock on the morning of the 6th instant, and 
found that on the 24th of November General Sedgwick, commanding the sub- 
district of the Rio Grande, had demanded and received the surrender of the 
city of Matamoras from Oanales, who arbitrarily held possession of the city 
against the legitimate authority of his government ; that, on the 30th ultimo, 
the few United States troops (about fifty) holding the city had been withdrawn, 
in obedience to instructions sent by me, disapproving the act of occupation or 
any action arising from it. 

The motives which influenced Brevet Brigadier General Sedgwick in this act 
are unknown to me ; but the alleged one, of protecting American citizens and 
their property, was in violation of a decision made by the honorable Secretary 
of State on this subject, which decision is on file in his office. 

The case presents itself to my mind in this way: After the surrender of 
Matamoras to General Carvajal, the merchants of Matamoras, most of them 
foreign-born, and some claiming American citizenship, but ultra Maximilian ad- 
herents, and blockade-runners during the rebellion, induced Canales (a noted 
character) to pronounce against the authority of the liberal government. They 
had two objects in this : first, to help the imperial cause, by creating as much 
dissension as possible among the liberal leaders ; second, that they might pass 
out goods from the city, free of duty, or nearly so. 

This worked well for them, and goods said to amount to a large sum of 
money were so moved out. 

This condition of affairs continued until General Escobedo, in command of 
the liberal forces, advanced troops against Matamoras for its recapture. Pend- 
ing this event, Ortega was sent for, and as Canales was a usurper, it was ne- 
cessary to support him by a more noted character like Ortega. But Ortega hav- 
ing been arrested at Brazos Santiago, and Escobedo having laid siege to the 
city, these merchants were obliged to change their plans. They then proposed 
that Canales should surrender the city to Escobedo, if Escobedo would agree 
to pay them the money given or said to have been given to Canales, the amount 
being some ($600,000) six hundred thousand dollars. This Escobedo refused, 
and fearing that they would lose their claim and perhaps their property, if the 
city was taken, they brought their influence to bear on Brevet Brigadier Gen- 
eral Sedgwick. * * * This is the point of the whole affair. 

The occupation of the city was a mere matter of form, and had the consent 
of General Escobedo, who made no objections, and since the city passed into 
his hands has called on General Sedgwick in the most friendly manner, and 
asked me to forgive his action. 

********* 

I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

P. H. SHERIDAN, 

Major General U. S. Army. 
Brevet Major General J. A. Rawlins, 

Chief of Staff, Washington, D. C. 



488 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO, 

[Indorsements on the above.] 

Headquarters U. S. A., December 18, 18G6. 

Respectfully forwarded to the Secretary of War for his information. 

JNO. A. RAWLINS, 
Brevet Major General, Chief of Staff, 

(In absence of General Grant.) 

War Department, December 18, 1866. 
Copy respectfully transmitted to the honorable the Secretary of State, for 
his information. 



[Enclosure No. 6. — From the Rio Grande Courier, Brownsville, December 7, J8G6 ] 
THE OCCUPANCY OF MATAMORAS. 

From the despatches which appear in the northern papers, via Louisville, 
coupled with the arrival of General Sheridan at this point, it would seem well 
settled that Colonel Thomas D. Sedgwick either has been or immediately will 
be relieved from the command of the sub-district of the Rio Grande. 

While the primary cause of this is, no doubt, the dissatisfaction felt by high 
authority on account of his course in the late occupancy of Matamoras, yet it 
is more than probable that some change would, in any case, have occurred at 
an early date. 

While we know of no earthly reason for reflecting upon the good intentions 
of Colonel Sedgwick, yet it has been well understood that the delicate position 
of affairs here requires a man of enlarged experience, both in military and civil 
matters. Colonel Sedgwick came to the command by virtue of his seniority 
of rank solely, and without regard to fitness or qualification. He did not seek 
the place. Indeed, without claiming to speak by authority, we think we can 
safely say that he accepted it only because his official duty did not allow him 
to decline it. 

It has so happened that the difficulties over the river, and the machinations 
upon this side, have been far greater and more numerous than usual during his 
administration, making his duties the more intricate and arduous. 

It is impossible for either the authorities at New Orleans or at Washington 
to lay down a course of conduct to be followed in every case which may arise. 
All they can do is to mark out a general line of policy, leaving to the good 
sense and judgment of the commander here to attend to the details. To do 
this is ofttimes the most difficult part of the task. 

The interests upon the other side of the Rio Grande are so often complicated, 
the leaders so numerous, their professions so persistent, and their skill at diplo- 
macy so great, backed up as they are by any number of shrewd, intelligent 
lawyers, that he is indeed a man of unusual intelligence who can cope with 
them, and for this reason we say, as we have before said, that there is no place 
upon the continent where a commanding officer of great capacity and firmness 
is more required. 

In the late fiasco — for such it was — Colonel Sedgwick has been simply out- 
witted by a combination of military and civil influences, the latter mostly of 
American nationality. 

The foreign merchants and capitalists of Matamoras, who have been com- 
pelled to advance money to Canales, were naturally enough anxious for its re- 
turn. Escobedo, in all attempts which were made at negotiations, persistently 
refused to recognize Canales's engagements. These merchants were conse- 
quently opposed to any surrender of the city which would involve the loss of 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS LN MEXICO. 489 

the money advanced by them. Many of them were Americans, and in these 
matters had the ear of the commanding officer. In their advice and represent- 
ations they were of course influenced by their interests. They were also in 
the confidence of Canales, for, in the matter pending, their interests lay with 
him. With these and with Canales, who professedly recognized Juarez as 
President, Colonel Sedgwick had to deal ; every question which might at the 
same time arise, the more complicated by the presence of an army, under the 
command of the recognized representative of Juarez, besieging the city, for 
whose success General Sedgwick was at all times anxious. The result was a 
blunder, which, in its practical results, was in this instance "worse than a 
crime." The object desired, viz., the advancement of Escobedo's interest, was 
not obtained, but rather the contrary, as the presence of the American force, in 
the attack which followed, contributed very greatly to the success of Canales. 
Nor, as it seems, were the wishes of the government carried out, as in render- 
ing assistance to Juarez his instructions did not warrant the occupancy of 
American (Mexican) territory. The result was Colonel Sedgwick's removal. 
Though not as generally well known as his predecessors, socially he has been 
popular with our citizens, and aside from his official duties, his departure from 
among us, should this be involved, will be regretted. In commenting upon his 
course in the late affair, this journal has felt compelled to criticise it with some 
severity. The result has shown that we were correct. In doing so, we have 
been actuated by no unkind feelings to Colonel Sedgwick, but have acted solely 
for the honor and interest e>f the American name. 



IVo. 9. 

CUSTOM-HOUSE DUTIES AT ACAPULCO. 

List of papers. 

137. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward, (with one enclosure) May 3, 1866. 

13S. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero July 6, 1866. 

139. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward, (with two enclosures) Oct. 8, 1866. 

140. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero Oct. 12, 1866. 



No. 137. 
Senor Romero to Mr. Seward. 

[Translation.] 

Mexican Legation of the United States of America, 

Washington, May 3, 1S66. 
Mr. Secretary : Referring to my note of the 24th of February last to your 
department, relative to certain duties collected in Acapulco by the governor of 
the State of Guerrero, I have the honor to send you the copy of a communica- 
tion I have received from Mr. Lerdo de Tejada, minister of foreign relations of 
the Mexican republic, dated at Paso del Norte the 31st of March following, and 
numbered ISO, explaining why that business has not yet been decided upon by 
the Mexican government. 

I accept the opportunity of renewing to you, Mr. Secretary, the assurances 
of my most distinguished consideration. 

M. ROMERO. 
Hon. William H. Seward, Sp., Sp., Sfc. 



490 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 



[Enclosure No. 1.] 

No. 180.] Dep't of Foreign Relations and Government, 

Paso del Norte, March 31, 1866. 

I have received your note No. 88 of the 7th of February last, with a copy of 
Mr. Seward's to you on the same day, in regard to the custom-house duties 
ordered to he collected from certain American citizens in Acapulco by the gov- 
ernor of the State of Guerrero. 

In your note of the 24th of the same month, No. 133, you said you had re- 
ceived mine of the 22d of January, No. 22, in which I told you what the min- 
ister of hacienda had communicated on the subject, a copy of which you trans- 
mitted to Mr. Seward. 

I now send a copy of your note No. S8, with Mr. Seward's to you on the 
7th of February, to the minister of hacienda, as it is his duty to decide the 
affair, which has not been settled for want of the proper information from the 
governor of Guerrero, and which could not be had on account of the distance 
and the insecurity of the roads. 

Accept my attentive consideration. 

LERDO DE TEJADA. 

Citizen Matias Romero, 

Envoy Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Mexican Republic. 

Washington, May 3, 1866. 
A true copy : 

IGNO. MARISCAL, Secretary. 



No. 138. 

Mr. Seward to Senor Romero. 

Department of State, 

Washington, July 6, 1866. 
Sir : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of 
the 3d of May last, containing a letter addressed to you by Mr. Lerdo de Te- 
jada, explanatory of the dilatoriness on the part of the Mexican government in 
attending to the matter concerning certain duties collected in Acapulco by the 
governor of the State of Guerrero. 

I embrace this opportunity to renew to you the assurances of my distinguished 
consideration. 



Senor Don M. Romero, fyc, fyc, fyc. 



WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 



No. 139. 

Senor Romero to Mr. Seward. 

[Translation.] 

Mexican Legation to the United States of America, 

Washington, October 8, 1866. 
Mr. Secretary : Referring to the note which I addressed to your department 
on the 3d of May last, relating to certain duties collected at Acapulco from citi- 
zens of the United States by General Don Diego Alvarez, governor of the State 
of Guerrero, I have now the honor to remit to you a copy of a note from Mr. 
Lerdo de Tejada, minister for foreign relations of the Mexican republic, dated 
at Chihuahua, the 6th September last, marked No. 42S, with which a copy was 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 491 

sent me of a communication from the minister of finance and public credit of the 
same date, transcribing a despatch from General Alvarez, dated the 1st June 
last, in which he expresses the reasons for which he thinks it necessary to re- 
serve, until the port of Acapulco may be evacuated by the enemy, the report re- 
quired from him on that incident. 

I gladly avail myself of this occasion to renew to you, Mr. Secretary, the as 
surances of my most distinguished consideration. 

M. ROMERO. 

Hon. William H. Seward, fyc., fyc, Sfc. 



[Enclosure No. 1. — Translation.] 

No. 42S.] Department of Foreign Relations and Government, 

Chihuahua, September 6, 1866. 

I send you a copy annexed of a communication from the minister of finance 
of this date, in which he transcribes that which was addressed to him on the 
1st June by the governor of the State of Guerrero, setting before him the rea- 
sons why he thought it necessary to reserve, until the port of Acapulco was un- 
occupied by the enemy, the report called for from him respecting the exaction from 
some American citizens of payment of duties of customs which they had already 
paid to the French commanders during their anterior stay at that port. 

Please give account of this communication to the Hon. Mr. Seward ; in it the 
circumstances are indicated which delayed the information sought for. 

I express to you my most respectful consideration. 

LERDO DE TEJADA. 

Citizen Matias Romero, 

Envoy Extraordinary and Minister of the Mexican Republic. 

Washington, October 8, 1866. 
A true copy : 

IGNO. MARISCAL, Secretary. 



[Enclosure No. 2. — Translation.] 

Department of Finance and Public Credit, 

Chihuahua, September 6, 1866. 

The governor and military commander of the State of Guerrero says to me, 
under date of 1st June last, as I copy : 

"Your despatch of 11th April is received, in which you request this govern- 
ment to report what was the cause of deciding that some American citizens 
should pay again the duties they had already satisfied with the French authori- 
ties during their stay in Acapulco. I have the honor to say, in reply, that as 
soon as that port may be left unoccupied by the enemy, I will send the re- 
port in question, because it is not proper to the public service to send it now, 
because there is no security that the correspondence may reach the point in- 
tended, as perhaps it would fall into the enemy's hands, which I think it pru- 
dent to avoid because there is in question a matter which may commit persons 
who are living there, which I transcribe to you for your information, 

IGLESIAS. 

The Minister of Foreign Relations. 

A true copy : 

JUAN VALDEZ, 

"Principal Officer. 

Washington, October 8, 1S66. 
A true copy : 

IGNO. MARISCAL, Secretary 



492 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

Legacion Mbxicana en los E. Unidos de America, 

Washington, 8 de Octubre de 1866. 

Senor Skcretario : Refiriendome a la uota que deriji a ese departamento el 
3 de Mayo ultimo, relativamente a ceirtos derechos cobrados en Acapulco a 
ciudadanos de los Estados Unidos por el General Don Diego Alvarez, goberna- 
dor del Estado de Guerrero, tengo ahora la honra de remitir a V. copia de una 
nota del Sr. Lerdo de Tejada, ministro de relaciones exterioros de la republica 
Mexicana, fechada en Chihuahua el 6 de Setiembre proximo pasado y marcada 
numero 428, con la que se me envia copia de una comunicacion del ministerio 
de hacienda y credeto publico, de la misma fecha transcribiendo un oficio del 
General Alvarez fechado el 1° de Junio ultimo, en que espresa los motivos por 
que cree necesario reservar para cuando el puerto de Acapulco sea evacuado por 
el enemigo, ei infbrme que se le pidio sobre aquel incidente. 

Aproveche gustoso esta oportunidad para renovar a V, Senor Secretario, las 
seguridado de mi mas distinguida consideracion. 

M. ROMERO. 

Hon. William H. Seward, fyc., 8fc., Sfc. 



No. 1. 



Numero 428.] Ministerio de Relaciones Exteriores y Gobernacion, 

Chihuahua., Setiembre 6 de 1866. 
Envio a V. copia anexa de una comunicacion del ministro de hacienda, fecha 
de hoy, en que me transcribe la que le derijio en 1° de Junio el gobernador del 
Estado de Guerrero, manifestandolo los motivos por que creia necesario reservar 
hasta que el puerto de Acapulco iuere desocupaclo por el enemigo, el informe 
que se le pidio, respecto de hubiese exijido a unos ciudadanos Americanos que 
pagaren los derechos aduanales que habian satisfecho a los gefes Franceres du- 
rante su anterior permanencia en aquel puerto. 

Puede V. servirse dar conocimento al Hon. Mr. Seward de esa comunicacion, 
en que se indican las circunstancias que hacen retardar el informe pedido. 
Protesto a V. mi muy atenta consideracion, 

LERDO DE TEJADA. 
0. Matias Romero, 

Enviado Extraordinario y Ministro de la Republica Mexicana. 

Washington, Oct. 8 de 1866. 
Es copia : 

IGNO. MARISCAL, Secretario. 



No. 2. 



Ministerio de Hacienda y Credito Publico, 

Chihuahua, Setiembre 6 de 1S66. 

El gobernador y comandante militar del Estado de Guerrero, me dice con fecha 
1° de Junio ultimo lo que copio : 

"Recibido hay el oficio de V. de 11 de Abril ultimo, en que pide a este go- 
bierno informe lo que haya ocurrido acerca de haber determinado que pagasen 
algunos ciudadanos Americanos las derechos que habian satisfecho a las autori- 
dades Francesas, durante su permanencia en Acapulco ; tengo el honor de decir 
a V. en respuesta: que luego que el referido puerto sea desocupado por el enemigo, 
le remitire' el informe de que se trata, por ser inconveniente al servicio de la causa 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO 493 

nacional verificarlo hoy, en razon de que no habiendo seguridad de que pase 
la corespondencia por el espresado puerto, se espondria a caer en manos del ene- 
migo, lo cual creo prudente evitar por tratarse en ella de un negocio en que se 
comproineten personas de las que residen alii." 

Lo que transcribo a V. para su conocimiento. 

IGLESIAS. 

Al Ministro de Relaciones Exteriores. 

Es copia : 

JUAN VALDEZ, Oficial 1°. 

"Washington, Oct. 8 de I860. 
Es copia : 

IGNO. MARISCAL. 



No. 140. 

Mr. Seward to Senor Romero. 

Department of State, 

Washington, October 12, 1866. 

Sir: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of 
the 8th instant, containing a copy of a letter from the minister of foreign affairs 
to you, and of one from the department of finance and public credit of Mexico 
to the minister for foreign affairs, in which the reason for delaying an answer to 
the complaint of certain citizens of the United States, that duties had been 
illegally collected from them at Acapulco, is stated to be the present occupation 
of that city by the enemies of Mexico. 

It is to be regretted that a cause has intervened to prevent an explanation of 
this matter. Under the circumstances, however, the government of the United 
States is disposed to wait until the cause assigned shall have passed, in the hope 
that any additional delay will be avoided. 

I avail myself of this opportunity t > renew to you the assurances of my most 
distinguished consideration. 

WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 

Senor Don M. Romero, tye., fyc, fyc. 



J\o. 10. 

CASE OF SCHOONER SOLEDAD COS. 
List of papers. 

141 . Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero, (with one enclosure) April 17, 1866, 

142. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward April 17, 1866. 



No. 141. 

Mr. Seward to Senor Romero. 

Department of State, 

Washington, April 17, 1S66. 

Sir : Referring to your communication of the 13th of October, 1865, relative 
to the disposition made of the schooner Soledad Cos, previously known as the 
Anna Taylor, and to my reply thereto of March 13, 1866, I have now the 



494 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

honor to transmit for your information a copy of the letter of trie honorable the 
Secretary of the Navy, dated the lGth instant, from which it appears that the 
vessel referred to was condemned as a good prize by the prize court at New 
York, and that the proceeds have been distributed among the captors. 

I avail myself of this occasion to renew to you, sir, the assurances of my very 
distinguished consideration. 

WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 
Sefior Matias Romero, 8fc, 8fc., 8fc., 

Washington, D. C. 



[Enclosure.] 

Mr. Welles to Mr. Seward. 

Navy Department, 

Washington, April 16, 1866. 
Sir: I have the honor to acknowledge -the receipt of your letter of the -5th 
Instant, transmitting papers in the case of the schooner Soledad Cos, and to 
state, in reply to your inquiry, that~ the vessel referred to was condemned as a 
good prize by the prize court at New York, and that the proceeds have been 
distributed among the captors. 

I am, respectfully, your obedient servant, 



Hon. William H. Seward, 

Secretary of State. 



G. WELLES, 

Secretary of the Navy. 



No. 142. 

Se;wr Romero to Mr. Seward. 

[Translation. ] 

Mexican Legation to the United States op America. 

Washington, April 17, 1S66. 
Mr. Secretary.: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your note 
of this date, in reply to mine of the 13th of October last, relating to the Mexi- 
can schooner " Soledad Cos," enclosing me a copy cf a communication from the 
Secretary of the Navy to your department, from which it appears that the said 
schooner was declared to be a lawful prize by the New York prize court, and 
the proceeds of its sale distributed among its captors. 

I send a copy of your note, with the accompanying document, to my govern- 
ment, this day, that, in view of them, it may determine what is proper. 

I embrace the occasion to renew to you, Mr. Secretary, the assurances of my 
most distinguished consideration. 

M. ROMERO. 
Hon. William H. Seward, tyc, Sfc., Sfc. 



No. 11. 

SEAT OF THE MEXICAN GOVERNMENT. 
List of papers. 

143. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward, (with three enclosures). . . . .August 6, 1866. 

144. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero . . .August 16, 1866. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 495 

No. 143. 

Senor Romero to Mr. Seward. 

[Translation. ] 

Mexican Legation in the United States of America, 

Washington, August 6, lbbb. 

Mr Secretary : I have the honor to send to you, for the information of the 
government of the United States, a copy of the supplement to No .19 of^he 
official paper of the Mexican government, published in Chihuahua the 20th ot 
Tune hst containing a circular from Mr. Lerdo de Tejada, minister of foreign 
Sion of tt republic, dated the 17th of that month, communicating the in- 
telligence that the constitutional President of the republic left the town of Paso 
del Norte on the 10th, with his cabinet, and arrived in Chihuahua on the 17th, 
where he was received by the inhabitants with demonstrations of the most sin- 
cere enthusiasm. The chief magistrate also met the same welcome in all the 

t0 I ToVncloIe^a note from Mr. Lerdo de Tejada, addressed to me on the 18th 
of June, and containing a copy of the circular. , _ 

It is seen from the above circular that the State of Chihuahua is entirely fiee 

from the presence of the French invaders ; and in it the assurances are renewed 

hat the President will continue his efforts, as he has ^f°f^?™f^ 

with his duties in supporting the cause of independence ami the institution, ot 

the republic, until it shall have attained a complete success 

I am pleased to have this opportunity to renew to you, Mr. Secretaiy, the as- 
surances of my most distinguished consideration. ROMERO. 

Hon. William H. Seward, &c, &c, &c. 

[Enclosure No. 1.] 

No 271.1 Department of Foreign Relations and Government, 

J Chihuahua, June 18, lbbb. 

I send you for your information copies of the circular I have addressed to the 
State governors, informing them that the President arrived in this city yester- 
day' where he returns to fix the seat of the national government for the time 

being. 

I protest to you my attentive consideration. ^^ ^ ^^^ 

Citizen Matias Romero, Envoy Extraordinary and _ 

Minister of the Mexican Republic in Washington. 

Washington, August 6, 1S66. 
A true copy: F. D. MAOIST, 

Second Secretary of the Legation, 



[Enclosure No. 3.1 

Department of State, 
Chihuahua, Tuesday, July 17, 1S66. 
The citizen President of the republic left El Paso on the 10th instant, and 
arrived to-day in this city, where he comes to establish for the present the resi 
deuce of the national government. As the State is now free from the invading 
foreign and traitor forces, the citizens of Chihuahua, always moved by their 



496 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

patriotism, have taken still more pains than even on former occasions to make 
the greatest and most enthusiastic demonstration of their respect and regard for 
the chief magistrate of the nation. When, on other occasions, this department 
as announced the change of residence of the national government, caused by 
the exigencies of the war, it has been stated, and it is, therefore, unnecessary 
to repeat it now, that wherever thePresident maybe, and under any circumstances, 
he will always endeavor, as he has done heretofore, to fulfil his duties in sus- 
taining the cause of independence, and the institutions of the republic, until 
that cause succeeds finally, through the patriotism, courage, and constancy of 
the Mexican people. 

LERDO DE TEJADA. 
The Citizen Governor. 



No. 144. 

Mr. Seicard to Senor Romero. 

Department of State, 

Washington, August 16, 1866. 
Sir : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of 
the 6th instant, containing a copy of the supplement of No. 19 of the official paper 
of your government, in which the details of the arrival of the constitutional Presi- 
dent of the republic of Mexico at Chihuahua are given at large, and to beg of you 
to accept my thanks for the same. 

. I avail myself of this occasion to renew to you the assurance of my most 
distinguished consideration. 



Senor Don Matias Romero, $-c, Sfc, fyc. 



WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 



No. 12. 

EXPORTATION OF ARMS. 
List of papers. 

145. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward, (with one enclosure,) March 24, 1866. 

146. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero, (with one enclosure,) March 24, 1866. 

147. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward March 25, 1866. 

1 48. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero April 18, 1866. 



No. 145. 

Senor Romero to Mr. Seward. 

[Translation.] 

Mexican Legation to the United States of America, 

Washington, March 24, 1S66. 
Mr. Secretary : I have the honor to remit to you a copy of a note which I 
have just received from the consul general of the Mexican republic at New 
York, dated yesterday, in which it is intimated to me that a person worthy of 
credence has given him information that there have been shipped on board the 
steamer " Manhattan," which should sail from New York for Vera Cruz this 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO, 497 

day at three o'clock in the afternoon, five thousand muskets, purchased by the 
agents of the usurper Maximilian, and shipped, not as private property, but for 
account of the said usurper. 

I think it my duty to beg that you will please to give the orders necessary 
that the export of said arms, in case the facts communicated to me turn out to 
be true, be not allowed. 

I avail myself of the occasion to renew to you, Mr. Secretary, the assurances 
of my most distinguished consideration. 

M. ROMERO. 

Hon. William H. Seward, Sfc, Sfc., fyc. 



[Enclosure. — Translation. ] 

Consulate General of the 
Republic of Mexico in the United States, 

New York, March 23, 1866. 

I have the honor to bring to your knowledge that at this moment a trust- 
worthy person has come to me, assuring me that on board the steamer Man- 
hattan, which is to leave this port at three o'clock to-morrow, there are five 
thousand' muskets, purchased by the agents of Maximilian, in violation of the 
laws of neutrality. 

In communicating this for the purposes which may take place, I renew to 
you the assurance of my consideration. 

JUAN N. NAVARRO. 
C. Matias Romero, 

Envoy Extraordinary and Minister Ple?iipotentiary 

of the Mexican Repuhlic, Washington City, D. G. 



No. 146. 

Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero. 

Department of State, 

Washington, March 24, 1866. 
Sir : With reference to your communication of this date requesting that the 
necessary orders may be given by this government to prevent the exportation 
of five thousand muskets " purchased by the agents of the usurper Maximilian 
and shipped not as piivate property, but for account of the said usurper," I 
have the honor to enclose a copy of letter of this date from the Attorney Gen- 
eral, whose opinion I hastened to obtain. It appears therefrom that the orders 
suggested would be illegal. 

Accept, sir, a renewed assurance of my high consideration. 

WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 
Senor Matias Romero, Sfc., 3fc., fyc. 



Mr. Speed to Mr. Seward. 

Attorney General's Office, 

Washington, D. C, March 24, 1866. 
Sir : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your note of the 24th 
March, together with a copy of a letter from Mr. Romero, the minister of the 
Mexican republic. 

Mr. Romero says that he has been informed that agents of the "usurper Maxi- 
22 Mux. 



498 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

milian " have purchased in New York five thousand muskets, and that " they are 
to be shipped to Vera Cruz not as private property, but for account of the said 
usurper." Mr. Romero asks that the shipment be not allowed. You ask my 
opinion whether there is any law or regulation now in force prohibiting the ex- 
portation of arms for the account of any person whatever, be his political desig- 
nation real or assumed, or of any government. 

This question is fully answered in my opinion delivered to you on the 23d 
day of last December. 

The opinion of the 23d of December was given upon a complaint of Mr. Ro- 
mero that General McDowell, commanding the military department of California, 
had prohibited the exportation of arms or munitions of war by the frontier into 
Mexico. That opinion is to the effect that General McDowell's order was un- 
lawful. 

I can perceive no difference in principle betwixt that case and this. So far 
as neutrals are concerned belligerent parties are equal. 

I know of no law or regulation which forbids any person or government, 
whether the political designation be real or assumed, from purchasing arms from 
citizens of the United States and shipping them at the .risk of the purchaser. 
I am, sir, your obedient servant, 

JAMES SPEED, Attorney General 

The Secretary of State. 



No. 147. 

Scfior Romero to Mr. Seivard. 

[Translation.] 

Mexican Legation to the United States of America, 

Washington, March 25, 1866. 

Mr. Secretary: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your note 
of yesterday, informing me that "in reference to my communication of this date, 
requesting that the necessary orders may be given by this government to pre- 
vent the exportation of five thousand muskets purchased by ageuts of the 
usurper Maximilian, and embarked not as private property, but on account of 
the said usurper," you enclose me the copy of a note from the Attorney Gen- 
eral of the United States, whose opinion you had readily asked, and from which 
it appears that the orders referred to would be illegal. 

1 also received the copy of the note of the Attorney General of the United 
States addressed to you yesterday, stating that the question was settled by the 
opinion he gave to the State Department on the 23d of December, 1865, of 
which you sent me a copy with your note of the 24th of that month. 

The Attorney General states that that opinion was given in reply to a com- 
plaint of mine against the order issued on the 11th of October, 1865, by Gen- 
eral McDowell, commander in-chief of the military department of California, 
prohibiting the exportation of arms and munitions of war across the north- 
western frontier of Mexico; that the Older was then declared illegal; and adds, 
there is no essential difference between that case and the present, for as far as 
neutrals are concerned, belligerent parties must consider them as equals. 

The Attorney General concludes by saying that " heis acquainted with no law 
or regulation that prohibits any person or government, whether the firm be real 
or fictitious, from buying arms from citizens of the United States and shipping 
them at the risk of the purchaser." 

In submitting to the government of the United States for the first time the 
question of the legality of the exportation of articles contraband of war from this 
country to one of the belligerents in the present war in Mexico, you replied to 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 499 

me in your note of the 24th of November, 1S62, enclosing me the copy of a 
note from the Treasury Department to the Department of State, dated the 20th 
of the same month, (Executive Document No. 11, sent to the Senate of the 
38th Congress, 1st session, page 19,) and extracts of authorities quoted by the 
Solicitor of the Treasury, from which it appears that the purchase of articles 
contraband of war in the United States, and their exportation for the use of 
belligerents, is permitted when it is done in trade by xoay of merchandise and 
private speculation, but not when done directly by one of the belligerents, with 
the declared intention to be used against the other belligerent, with whom the 
United States are at peace. 

This is the same principle, in my judgment, that serves as a foundation for 
the neutrality laws of the United States, which prohibit the armino- of vessels 
of war in the United States for belligerents, as well as the organization of hos- 
tilities against either of the belligerent parties. 

Such, at least, was my understanding of the neutrality laws of this country, 
up to the present time, deduced from data furnished me by your department; 
that is, trade in articles contraband of war for the use of belligerents was lawful 
when carried on by merchants as a private speculation, but unlawful when done 
by the belligerents themselves. 

For that reason I complained of General McDowell's order, supposing it pro- 
hibited all trade, both that which I considered to be lawful and what I held as 
unlawful, and I requested it to be revoked in regard to the first. 

And for the same reason I requested in my note of yesterday that the neces- 
sary orders should be issued to prevent the clearance of the " five thousand 
muskets purchased and shipped in the steamer Manhattan for Vera Cruz, by 
the agents of the usurper Maximilian," stating I had been assured that the 
muskets had been shipped, " not as private property, but on account of the said 
usurper;" and I added, "that I desired the orders to be issued, in case the facts 
were as they had been represented to me." 

The Attorney General says that " he knows of no law or regulation which 
forbids any person or government, whether the political designation be real or 
assumed, from purchasing arms from citizens of the United States, and shippiug 
them at the risk of the purchaser," and this statement makes me believe that I 
have been mistaken in my understanding of the laws of this country, since I 
cannot suppose for a moment that a restrictive interpretation to the disadvantage 
of Mexico has been given to them, up to the present moment. In this suppo- 
sition I have now to state, that I accept the interpretation the Attorney General 
gives to those laws, not doubting, of course, from the equity and good faith of 
the government of the United States, that they will be interpreted in the same 
manner when the Mexican government attempts to purchase and export articles 
contraband of war from the ports of the United States, or over its frontiers. 

I do not pretend to ask that any law of this country be interpreted in favor 
of Mexico, to the detriment of the other belligerent (the French government,) 
but I think it is reasonable to ask that no interpretation be adopted by which 
Mexico is placed in a situation inferior to that of her enemy. 

As the Attorney General seems to consider me inconsistent in asking the rev- 
ocation of an order prohibiting the exportation of arms across the frontier, and 
a few months afterwards asking the prohibition of the shipping of arms pur- 
chased, not by way of merchandise, but by agents of the usurper Maximilian, 
and on his account, "provided the facts were as they had been represented to 
me," I take the liberty to request you, if there be no objection, to communicate 
to him the explanations I make in this note. 

I avail myself of this opportunity to renew to you, Mr. Secretary, the assur- 
of my most distinguished consideration, 

M. ROMERO. 
Hon. William II. Sewakd, fyc., fyc., fyc. 



500 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

No. 148. 

Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero. 

Department of State, 

Washington, April IS, I860. 

Sir : I have had the honor to receive your communication of the 25th ultimo, 
in reply to mine of the previous day, enclosing to you the opinion of the At- 
torney General of the United States with reference to the exportation of five 
thousand muskets purchased and shipped in the steamer Manhattan for Vera 
Cruz, by the agents of Maximilian, and which exportation you desired should 
he prohibited. 

The opinion of the Attorney General, already communicated to you, precludes 
the necessity of any extended remarks on my part upon this subject, except to 
assure you that no law of the United States will be so interpreted as to place 
Mexico in a position inferior to that of her enemy. 

I beg also to inform you that, in compliance with your request, a copy of your 
note of the 25th March has been communicated to the Attorney General. 

I avail myself of this occasion to renew to you, sir, the assurance of my most 
distinguished consideration. 

WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 



No. as. 

SOUTHERN IMMIGRATION TO MEXICO. 
List of 2 )a I >ers - 

149. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward, (with 12 enclosures) August 3, 1866. 

150. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero August 16, 1866. 

151. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward, (with 4 enclosures) December 12, 1866 

152. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero December 20, 1866. 



No. 149. 

Se/ior Romero to Mr. Seward. 

[Translation.] 

Mexican Legation to the United States of America, 

Washington, Augttst 3, 1866. 

Mr. Secretary : In confirmation of the reports I have transmitted to the 
Department of State of the United States, on divers occasions, relative to the 
efforts of the French agents in Mexico, to induce citizens of the southern part 
of the United States to immigrate to that country, animated by a feeling hos- 
tile to their government, I have the honor to send you this day an index of 
original documents containing particulars of plans for that purpose, more mi- 
nute than any I have yet been able to communicate to your department. 

I regret I am not at liberty to say how these documents have fallen into my 
hands, but I can assure you they are authentic. 

I take pleasure in embracing this additional opportunity to renew to you, Mr. 
Secretary, the assurances of my most distinguished consideration. 

M. ROMERO. 

Hon, William H. Seward, fyc, Sfc., fyc. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 



iOl 



Index of documents sent to the Department of State of the United States by 
the Mexican legation in Washington, with the note of this date, in relation 
to the plan of southern colonization in Mexico. 



No. 



Date. 



1865. 
Feb. 5 



Nov. 1 

Dec. 6 

Dec. 6 

Dec. 6 



1866. 
Feb. 9 



7 Feb. 1? 



Contents. 



10 
11 
12 



Feb. 17 

May 3 

May 14 

June 6 

Dec. 16 



Letter of Mr. Charles M. Douglas, of Charleston, South Carolina, to the 
minister of the so-called Mexican empire in Washington, inquiring about 
the pay of passage for emigrants to Mexico. 

Letter from Mr. John 0. Shelby, at Cordova, to Mr. Frank Lilly, of St. 
Louis, Missouri, giving information for confederate emigrants to Mex- 
ico. 

Communication from Mr. M. F. Maury, called Imperial Commissioner of 
Colonization, to Mr. E. Farrenne, of New York, in relation to the estab- 
lishment of a bitreau of correspondence in the city of New York. 

A copy, in English, of the so-called colonization laws issued by the emperor 
Maximilian. 

An extract from the Mexican Times, of the 9th of December, 1863, con- 
taining a circular signed by Maury, and addressed to persons who wished 
to settle in Mexico. 

Letter from Mr. Benjamin Crowther to Mr. J. C. Littrell, of St. Louis, 
Missouri, giving information about confederate settlers in Mexico. 
I Letter from Mr. Richard L. Maury, son of M. F. Maury, called Imperial 
Sub-commissioner of Colonization, and colonel in the late confederate 
army, Mr. to James M. Payne, of Nashville, State of Tennessee, enclos- 
ing the following circular : 

Circular on Mexican colonization. 

Letter from Mr. R. L. Maury to Mr. W. C. S. Ventress, of New Orleans, 
informing him that his father had gone to England, and would return 
in October with his family ; enclosing a copy of No. 8. 

Letter from the same to Mr. Reuben Herndon, in Galveston, Texas, telling 
him of the inducements to emigration held out by the usurper Maximil- 
ian, and enclosing a copy of the circular No. 8. 

The colony founded by certain confederate ex-generals near Cordova, and 
named Carlotta, under the sanction of Maximilian, is broken up and de- 
stroyed by the liberal inhabitants in its vicinity. 

Letter from General Sterling Price, giving an account of the colony of Car- 
lotta, established by himself and other confederates. Reiterates his ad- 
hesion to rebeldom, and is perfectly content with his lot in Mexico. 



WAshixGTOX, August 3, 1866. 



IGNO. MARISCAL, Secretary. 



[Enclosure No. 1.] 

Charleston, S. 0., February 5, 1865. 
Dear Sir : Several young men, natives of this city, are desirous of emigrating 
to Mexico, but are without the necessary funds to enable them to do so. A let- 
ter is published in a Columbia, S. C, paper of the 4th instant, written from the 
city of Mexico by Colonel Maury, late of the confederate army, in which he 
states that the imperial government will defray the expenses of emigrants to 
Mexico. Our object iu addressing you is to inquire if this is a fact ; and if it is, 
to whom we are to apply for transportation. 

If necessary, all of the party can furnish you with the best testimonials as to 
character, &c. An early answer will be esteemed by us a great favor. 
Very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

CHAS. M. DOUGLAS. 
The Minister of the Empire of Mexico, 

Washington, D. C. 



502 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

[Enclosure No. 2.] 

[ The envelope containing this letter was marked as follows : " Mr. Frank 
Lilly, St. Louis, Missouri."] 

Cordova, Mexico, Nove?nber 1, 1865. 

Dear Lilly: How often have I written to you since I crossed the Rio 
Grande. Too often, and I would not tax you further, save I have just learned 
you have married my favorite of Waverly, May Hall. God knows my heart 
heats with joy ; and why? Because I love you hoth, and I am made happy 
hy knowing she has united with a man who will protect and guard her, and who 
numbered not among those who persecuted the South. I am here as an exile ; 
defeated by the acts of the southern people themselves. And why 1 Because 
they loved their " niggers," their estates, more than principle. They won, didn't 

they ? Let them reap what they deserved, eternal disgrace. D n 'em, they 

were foolish enough to think by laying down their arms they would enjoy all 
the rights they once had. How is it ? Your United States papers tell us their 
condition. Who can sympathize with them ? I can't, for I know them too well. 
Our independence was in our own hands. We lost from the fact our people 
were unwilling to sacrifice money — not blood. Of the women of the South, 
no man dare complain, and may a just God always guard over them. They 
labored hard, but even their influence failed to nerve the southern army to its 
duty. They sacrificed all save their honor. They urged a further continuance 
when the cowardly southern had cast aside his gun and only awaited the coming 
of the northern abolition fanatic to do his bidding. And to think that was the 
people we border-State men were fighting for ! Yes, that was the people we 
were fighting for. Were we not deceived 1 Still tve were right ! However, 
take away the women and children of the South, the balance might sink in a 
chasm of eternal damnation where there could be no relief. My heart is heavy 
at the idea of being separated from you all forever ; but I am not one of those 
to ask forgiveness for that which I believe to-day is right. The party in power 
has manifested no leniency. Though not among the politicians, I am not ready 
to play the sycophant. 

Frank, say to old George I have written to him several times; would like to 
hear from him. Bud I know will write to me. Tell Charley Cowan to write 
to me, and say further to him, in case I succeed in this country he shall not 
suffer. I will divide always with him. Please inform him where I am, and 
say to him to write to me and I will answer immediately. I would like George 
Hall to send Bud to me. I will have him taught Spanish, and he can return in 
two years a good Spanish scholar. Say to my Waverly friends to look for me 
when Napoleon jumps Uncle Sam. 
y^Thexe are about two hundred confederates here. We are settling on the 
railroad, in the finest agricultural country in the world, seventy miles from Vera 
Cruz. I will await to hear from you. Send this letter to George Hall. My 
love to May and your family. 

Ever your friend, J. 0. SHELBY. • 

Do you know where Mr. William Shelby is 1 When you go to Waverly tell 
my old friends it would console me much to hear from them. Say to Brock 
Fletcher I was in hopes of meeting him last fall, and he must write to me. To 
old man Rudd and John Hall I would say, my prayers Avould be offered freely 
if I thought the prayers of a rebel would avail the good. And where is poor 
Can. Kertley ? Old Spencer Brown, I know the blessings of a righteous God 
will always rest on him. A better man, a better heart, was never created. 
May happiness attend him and his. Let me hear, all. 

Tell Paschal to send me the Weekly Republican. I will pay. 
Yours, 

J. 0. S. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 503 

[Enclosure No. 3.] 

Colonization Office. 
No. 13 <S. Juan de Letrdn, December 6, 1S65. 
Sir : Your letter by Mr. Arroyo was received too late to reply by the steamer 
of to-day. 

Your suggestion as to a bureau of correspondence in New York is good, and 
seems to be well worthy of his majesty's consideration. 

There is in the United States a lamentable state of ignorance concerning Mex- 
ico and the Mexicans, and any one who can dispel that ignorance may well be 
considered as having done a good work. 

I enclose some decrees and other documents which you may find interesting. 
Respectfully, and your obedient servant, 

M. F. MAURY, 

Imperial Commissioner . 
E. Farrene, New York. 



[Enclosure No. 4.3 

Decree for the establishment of civil and military colonies on the imperial Mex- 
ican railroad between Vera Cruz and the city of Mexico. 

MAXIMILIAN, EMPEROR OF MEXICO. 

Considering that the establishment of lines of railroad is necessarily followed 
by the creation of new centres of population ; 

Considering that in the present state of the empire it is important that these 
centres of population should not be very far from each other ; 

Considering that all commerce and industry require complete security along 
their lines of communication ; 

We have decided to decree, and do decree as follows : 

Article 1. There shall be established on both sides of the railroad from Vera 
Cruz to the city of Mexico, and at the most suitable points, which points will be 
designated by our minister of fomento, civil and military settlements at a dis- 
tance from each other of not more than four or five leagues. 

Art. 2. Each settlement shall have an extent of at least one square league, 
taking care that its centre half be as near as possible to the railroad station. 

Art. 3. The survey, measurement, and division of these settlements shall be 
made by the colonial company of eugineers of Guadalupe. 

Art. 4. In case the lands selected as most suitable for these settlements should 
not be national property, but should belong to private individuals, they shall be- 
ex-appropriated for the public use, on such condition as our minister of fomento 
may decide. 

Art. 5. The first settlement to be established shall be between La Soledad 
and Puebla, and steps therefor shall be taken immediately. Then those which 
are to be established between La Puebla and the city of Mexico will be formed. 

Art. 6. There shall be established a line of small forts or blockhouses at the 
most suitable poinls along the road, and so situated that they can communicate 
with each other by means of signals day and night. These forts shall be suffi- 
ciently large to contain the necessary supplies and munitions. 

Art. 7. Our ministers of fomento, of war, and of hacienda are each charged 
with the execution of so much of this decreee as relates to his department. 

Given at Chapultepcc, September 5, 1865. 

MAXIMILIAN. 

The Minister of Fomento. 
By the emperor : 

MANUEL OROZCO Y BERRA, 
Sub secretary, in the absence of the Minister of Fomento. 



504 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 



REGULATIONS FROM THE MINISTRY OF FOMENTO FOR CARRYING OUT THE 

FOREGOING DECREE. 

Article 1. The settlements to which the preceding decree relates shall be 
established near those places which this ministry will designate, having regard 
to the points where the railroad stations are to be, and taking into consideration 
those circumstances that are indispensably connected with the welfare of the 
settlements. 

Art. 2. The engineers of Guadalupe, being divided into parties, shall pro- 
ceed, as soon as the places shall Lie designated, thoroughly to examine, in every 
particular, the land as to its fitness for the said settlement, and, the selection 
heing made, they will survey and measure a square league, or 4,338 acres, 
which they will divide into one hundred lots of forty acres each, numbering each 
one in regular order. The 338 remaining acres shall be divided into lots of 25 
metres front by 50 deep, (82 by 164 feet.) upon which the settlers may build 
their houses, arranged in streets of sufficient breadth for free and commodious 
passage. 

Art. 3. As soon as the engineers shall have selected the land suitable for the 
settlement they shall make it known to the public functionary in whose juris- 
diction the land may lie, to the end that he may immediately notify the owner 
thereof that said land is aboiit to be occupied for the public good, and that he 
may at once apply to the ministry of fomento for proper indemnification. 

Art. 4. The engineers, in making the measurement referred to in article 2, 
shall value the land according to its quality and with regard to the prices which 
rule in the neighborhood in which said land may be situated, a copy of which 
valuation they will deliver to the proprietor of the land, so that he may ask for 
the proper indemnification. 

Art. 5. Should the proprietor not be satisfied with the valuation made by 
said engineers he shall name an expert, in whom he may have confidence, who 
shall value the land ; and should his valuation not agree with that of said en- 
gineers the highest political authority of the place in which said land may be 
situated shall name a third party, who shall decide the question. 

Art. 6. The provision;? of the preceding article shall be carried out in case the 
proprietor cannot agree with the department of fomento in regard to price and 
terms of the indemnification, which may be made either in specie, at the times 
which the said department may designate, or in securities on the land itself, for 
which the colonists, according to the number of acres allotted to each one, may 
he bound in five-year bonds, bearing an annual interest of six per cent. 

Art. 7. In order to carry out the provisions of the preceding article, the price 
of each acre shall be fixed at one dollar, and it shall be optional with the set- 
tlers either to pay for their land immediately or to hold it on the above-men- 
tioned terms. 

Art. 8. The issues which may arise as to indemnification shall in nowise 
interfere with the settlement of the lands, which shall commence as soon as they 
are examined and the notice due be given to their owners. 

Art. 9. The engineers shall plat each settlement, designating the hundred 
lots designed for cultivation, as well as those intended for building, taking care 
to leave in each one the necessary amount of land for streets, churches, a school, 
a paseo, and other public works. These plats (or maps) shall be transmitted to 
the ministry of fomento, so that by means of them it may make the grants that 
may he solicited, and issue the proper titles. 

Art. 10. To the French soldiers, and also to those of the foreign regiment 
whose term of service may have expired, and who may wish to remain in the 
empire, there will be given, gratis, in said settlements, a lot for cultivation, and 
also one for building, provided they render that service which, for the safety of 
the settlements themselves, may be required by the minister of war. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 505 

Art. 11. One-half of the lots designed for cultivation, as well as those for 
building, shall be reserved for those Mexicans and foreigners who may desire to 
establish themselves upon them. 

Art. 12. The ministry of war will request his excellency Marshal Bazaine 
to assign the engineers of Guadalupe to the execution of those labors which" in 
these regulations are recommended to them, and it will arrange with him as to 
what compensation should be given them. 

Art. 13. The same department will issue the necessary regulations in regard 
to the military service which shall be required from the settlers, as well as those 
relative to the construction of the blockhouses. 

The Minister of Fomento ; 

In-his absence, the sub-secretary, Manuel Orozco y Berra. 

Mexico, September 7, 1865. 



decree to encourage immigration. 

We, Maximilian, emperor of Mexico, in consideration of the sparseness of 
population in the Mexican territory in proportion to its extent, desiring to give 
to immigrants all possible security for property and liberty, in order that they 
may become good Mexicans, sincerely attached to their new country, and hav- 
ing heard the opinion of our board of colonization, do decree as follows : 

Article 1. Mexico is open to immigration from all nations. 

Art. 2. Immigration agents shall be appointed, who will be paid by the gov- 
ernment, and whose duty it will be to protect the arrival of immigrants, and in- 
stal them on the lands assigned them, and assist them in every possible manner 
in establishing themselves. These agents will receive the orders of an imperial 
commissioner of immigration, specially appointed by us, and to whom, through 
our minister of improvement, (fomento,) all communications relating to immi- 
gration shall be addressed. 

Art. 3. Each immigrant shall receive a duly executed title, incommutable, 
of his landed estate, and a certificate that it is free of mortgage. 

Art. 4. Such property shall be free from taxes for the first year, and also 
from duties on transfers of property, but only on the first sale. 

Art. 5. The immigrants may be naturalized as soon as they shall have es- 
tablished themselves as settlers. 

Art. 6. Immigrants who may desire to bring laborers with them, or induce 
them to come in considerable numbers, of any race whatever, are authorized to 
do so, but those laborers will be subject to special protective regulations. 

Art 7. The effects of immigrants, their working and brood animals, seeds, 
agricultural implements, machines and working tools, shall enter free of custom- 
house and transit duties. 

Art. 8. Immigrants are exempted from military service for five years, but 
they will form a stationary militia, for the purpose of protecting their property 
and neighborhoods. 

Art. 9. Liberty in the exercise of their respective forms of religious worship 
is secured to immigrants by the organic law of the empire. 

Art. 10. Each of our ministers is charged with carrying out such parts of 
this decree as relate to his department. 

Given at Chapultepec on the 5th day of September, 1865. 

MAXIMILIAN. 

The Minister of Improvement, (Fomento.) 

By the emperor : 

MANUEL OROZCO Y BERRA, 

Sub-secretary (in the absence of the Minister of Improvement.) 



506 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO 



REGULATIONS. 

Under article 6 of the foregoing decree we ordain as follows : 

1. Under the laws of the empire, all persons of color are free by the mere act 
of touching Mexican soil. 

2. They may make contracts with the employer who has engaged, or may engage 
them, by which such employer shall bind himself to feed, clothe, and lodge them, 
and give them medical attendance, and also pay them a sum of money according 
to whatever agreements they may enter into with him ; moreover, he shall deposit 
in the savings bank hereinafter mentioned, for the benefit of the laborer, a sum 
equivalent to one-fourth of his wages. The laborer shall, on his part, obligate 
himself to his employer to perform the labor for which he was employed, for a 
term of not less than five, nor more than ten years. 

3. The employer shall bind himself to support the children of his laborers. 
In the event of the father's death, the employer will be regarded as the guardian 
of the children, and they will remain in his service until they become of age, on 
the same terms as those agreed to by their father. 

4. Each laborer shall receive a book certified by the local authority, in which 
book a description of his person, the statement of his place of labor, and a cer- 
tificate of his life and habits will be entered. In case of a change of employer 
the consent of the former employer shall be entered in this book. 

5. In case of the death of the employer, his heirs, or whoever may acquire 
his estate, shall be bound to the laborer in the same manner in which such em- 
ployer was ; and the laborer on his part shall be bound towards such new pro- 
prietor on the same terms as in his former contract. 

6. In case of desertion, the laborer, when arrested, shall be placed, without 
pay, upon the public works, until his employer presents himself to claim him. 

7. In case of any injustice of the employer towards the laborers, he shall be 
brought before a magistrate. 

8. Special police commissioners will see to the enforcement of these regulations, 
and officially prosecute all violators thereof. 

9. A savings bank will be established by the government for the following 
objects : 

10. The employers shall deposit in said bank, every month, for the benefit of 
the laborers, a sum equivalent to one-fourth of the wages which each is entitled 
to under his contract of employment. 

11. The laborers can deposit, in addition, in the savings bank, in money, such 
sums as they may desire. 

12. These deposits will bear interest at the rate of five per cent, per annum. 

13. At the end of his engagement, and on presentation of his book, the laborer 
shall receive the entire amount of his savings. 

14. If at the end of his engagement the laborer wishes to leave his money in 
the savings bank, he can then receive the interest accrued ; or, if he wishes to 
leave this also, it will be added to his capital and also draw interest. 

15. In case a laborer should die intestate or without heirs, hi? y '-vperty shall 
pass to the treasury of the government. 

Given at- Chapultepec on the 5th day of September, 1865. 

MAXIMILIAN. 
The Minister of Improvement, (Fomento.J 

By the emperor : 

MANUEL OKOZOO Y BERRA, 

Sub- secretary fin the absence of the Minister of Improvement.) 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 507 



REGULATIONS AND INSTRUCTIONS IN FURTHERANCE OF THE " DECREE TO 
ENCOURAGE IMMIGRATION.' 

Art. 1. The lands offered for colonization are divided into three classes : 

Art 2. First. Those that are of the public domain and have never been re- 
duced to cultivation. 

Art. 3. Second. Those that have been more or less improved as haciendas, 
the right to dispose of which the government has acquired either by purchase 
or otherwise. 

Art. 4. Third. Private lands and haciendas, the owners of which are dis- 
posed to offer tbem to immigrants on liberal terms for colonization. Many 
baciendas that are ur have been under cultivation may be bought on easy terms, 
and for less that one dollar per acre. 

Art. 5. These private haciendas or plantations sometimes embrace several 
hundred square miles. Smaller sizes often afford lands and room for a settle- 
ment of a dozen or more families. 

Art. 6. Immigrants are advised to establish themselves at first in settlements 
or communities, as well for mutual protection and assistance, as for the benefit 
of churches and schools, the convenience of mills, blacksmith shops, &c, &c. 

Art. 7. It is the policy of the government to encourage settlement upon pri- 
vate as well as public lands ; and the same rights, privileges and exemptions 
are offered to immigrants who may settle upon the former as are granted to 
those who settle upon the latter. 

Art. 8. Lands of class first are offered in alternate sections, as donations to 
actual settlers, and in quantities varying from 160 acres for a single man, to 640 
for the heads of families according to circumstances to be explained hereafter. 

Immigration. 

Art. 9. The government not only invites all well-disposed persons to come and 
assist in the occupation of its vacant places, but his majesty the emperor, touched 
by the spectacle of good men struggling with adversity in other lands, tenders 
hospitality and homes especially to these. Moved by the generous impulses of 
his nature, he offers them material assistance to enable them to reach this boun- 
tiful and beautiful land. To those of them who wish to change their skies, 
make Mexico their home, and identify themselves with the country, a free pas- 
sage by sea for their families and effects is offered. 

Art. 10. Immigrants are therefore divided into two classes, A and B. The 
former being of those just alluded to, who by misfortune have lost all their sub- 
stance; and the latter, those who are less straightened in their means. 

Art. 11. Not only a free passage by sea is offered to class A, but when they 
arrive in the country, a travelling allowance of ten cents the league, thence to 
their new homes, will be made for each member of their families, countiug as 
members, also, their apprentices. 

Art. 12. Lands of class first will be donated to these immigrants by alter- 
nate sections, viz. : 160 acres to a single man, and 320 to a man with a family, 
with a pre-emption rigbt to as much more in each case. 

Art. 13. Immigrants of class A, who, after arriving in the country, may pre- 
fer to settle upon haciendas or other lands, are at liberty to do so; but in that 
case they will be required to refund, with interest, the money that may have 
been advanced in assisting them to reach their new domiciles. 

Art. 14. Immigrants of class B, who are those that can afford to pay their 
own expenses, have the whole country before them. They may establish them- 
selves wherever they can find suitable and available lands. If they prefer the 
unimproved lands of the public domain, they also can have them free, in alter- 
nate sections, but only for actual settlement, at the rate of 320 acres for a single 



508 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

man, and 640 -to a man with a family, with a pre-emption right to as much more 
in each case. 

Art. 15. These donations of land to persons, whether of class A or B, are 
made on condition and with the understanding that they shall, in good faith, 
proceed forthwith to occupy, subdue, and cultivate the land so donated. 

Art. 16. The lands of the public haciendas will be offered at government 
prices, and ^ro rata according to the actual cost of purchase by the govern- 
ment. 

Art. 17. As it regards private lands and haciendas, the field of selection is 
much larger. Immigrants are free to make their own bargains with proprietors, 
the government waiving its fees on such transactions, as per article four of the 
decree. 

Art. IS. As it regards the public haciendas, a reservation of improved lands 
will be made from each to serve during the first years as a common, for the free 
use of the colonists. The size of this common will be determined by the num- 
ber of families the lands of the hacienda may be sufficient to accommodate. It 
will be large enough to give them breadstuff's and vegetables at once, and until 
they can bring their own lands into cultivation. It will be large enough also 
to afford space for a village, in case the immigrants should find it desirable, as 
probably at first they will, to establish themselves in villages. No rent will be 
charged for the first years for the use of this common. 

Art. 19. This reserve or common is ultimately intended for educational 
purposes, and, after the first years, a ground rent of ten per cent, upon the value 
of the land, but not of the improvements, will be required. 

Agencies. 

Art. 20. Agents .for immigration will be stationed at convenient points 
abroad, for the purpose of affordkg i lformation to the emigrant there, as to this 
country, its lands, the best way of retching them, and upon all other subjects 
pertaining thereto. 

Art. 21. Persons wishing to emigrate will first apply to the most convenient 
agent. The applicant must state his occupation, whether agricultural, mercan- 
tile, mechanical, or professional. He mu^t also give his age, with the name, 
sex, and age of each member of his family, including apprentices. If he re- 
quires assistance for the journey, he must state his circumstances, and give sat- 
isfactory references as to his character and standing in the community. 

Permits. 

Art. 22. The permit of the immigration agent is necessary to entitle the 
immigrant to the privileges of the decree. Unless he bring with him such a 
permit into the country, he will neither be entitled to lands, to free entry at 
the custom-house, nor to any other privileges beyond those accorded to mere 
strangers. 

Effects, 

Art. 23. Immigrants with such permits may bring in, duty free, all their 
personal and household effects, their live stock, their implements of husbandry, 
tools, and instruments of all kinds used by them in the pursuit of their trade, 
art, profession, or calling. But they may not bring, without the payment of 
duty, any merchandise, or thing for sale, exchange, or barter. 

Art. 24. Before embarking, if coming by sea, or leaving home, if coming by 
land, the emigrant should furnish the agent for immigration with a complete list 
of the persons and effects that he proposes to carry with him. These effects 
must be properly packed, marked, and numbered ; and the contents of each 
package, box, or case, must be duly certified, in order that they may the more 
readily pass the custom-house and toll-gates. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 509 

Art. 25. Arriving in port, or crossing the boundary, an agent will be there, 
whose duty it is to give the immigrants such assistance, and afford them such 
further information, as they may require to speed them on their way. 

Mexico, September 27, 1865. 

A PP roved: MAXIMILIAN. 

Office of Colonization, No. 13, Calls de San 

Juan de Letkan. Mexico, November 6, 1865. 



[Enclosure No. 5. J 
TO PERSONS WISHING TO SETTLE IN MEXICO. 

The doors of the empire are wide open, and his majesty the emperor has, in 
a most liberal decree, invited immigration from all quarters and without distinc- 
tion as to nationality. 

Many people, both in the Old World and the New, having heard of this invi- 
tation, wish to change their skies, and to avail themselves of its privileges. 
Gentlemen representing several thousand families in Europe, and hundreds in 
Tennessee, Missouri, Arkansas, Texas, the Carolinas, Alabama, Mississippi, and 
Louisiana, in the United States, are now anxiously seeking information in regard 
to the country, its condition, and resources, with the view of making it their 
home. 

Considering that almost the only source of information open to them upon 
this subject is to be found in anonymous contributions made for the most part 
to a press by no means friendly to Mexico, I deem it proper to state for the 
information of all those, whatever be their nationality, who desire to renounce 
it and come to Mexico, with the intention, in good faith, of making it their home 
and of planting their posterity here, that they would do well to come, for it is 
a laud more blessed by nature in its soil and climates than any part of the 
United States — that great centre at present of human migration. 

The earih here yields to the care of husbandry with a profusion that would 
seem incredible there and fabulous in Europe. In some places it crowns the 
labor of the husbandman regularly with two_ and in others with three harvests 
annually ; and in each one be gathers one hundred — two hundred — sometimes 
three hundred, and occasionally four hundred fold, and even more, according to 
his own skiil and the kind of seed used. 

Cotton and corn do well in almost all parts of the empire. But the cotton 
esp cially of Tamaulipas, Matahuala, Fresuillo, Durango, Mazatlan, and the 
States north, are said to be of a better staple — save sea island — than any pro- 
duced in tti3 United States. Indeed, the cotton of Yucatan is called sea island. 
Under these fine climates, which give a purity and transparency to the atmos- 
phere that make existence itself an enjoyment and invest the eye with the fa- 
culties of almost a new sense, the vegetable kingdom displays its wealth and 
its powers most gorgeously, and with the most marvellous vigor and concen- 
tration. 

In chosen spots, and upon a single hacienda, may be seen crowded together 
— piled up in steppes one above auo'ker, in all the glory of the lily, and with 
the perfection of excellence — fruits, flowers, and productions that, in less favored 
climes, ie<(uire f r their display as many latitudes, climates, aud soils as can be 
round in the entie breadth of plain that lies between the sources of the Missis- 
sippi and the mouths of the Amazon. 

Here, besides cotton and corn, the olive and the vine, we have the finest of 
wheat, with pulse, and all the cereals in great perfection. Also tobacco, coffee, 
sugar cane, the cocoa plai.t, rice, indigo, cochineal, pimento, India-rubber, and 



510 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

henuquin — a peculiar and valuable fibre that answers many of tbe purposes of 
both flax and hemp ; and last of all, and what, moreover, no other country in 
the world can produce — Flora's feat and Bacchus's boast — the lordly maguey, or 
pulque plant of Anahuac. 

I have seen some of the very best planters from Missouri, Tennessee, and the 
South, and I have conversed with learned men from Trance and other parts of 
Europe, all of whom happen to have travelled through the northern and most 
healthy parts of Mexico. The European report, on the one hand, an agricul- 
tural country superior to the best parts of France and Italy, and also of sur- 
passing mineral wealth ; while the Americans on the other, pronounce it a graz- 
ng and cattle country to which even the blue grass regions of Kentucky and 
Tennessee are not to be compared. 

The mountains abound with minerals, the woods with game, and the forest 
with the finest of timber — with the most exquisite dye and ornamental woods 
— gums and spices, drugs and medicinal plants of rare virtues. 
Y Generals Price and Shelby of Missouri, Governor Harris of Tennessee,, and 
/ Judge Perkins of Louisiana, with a number of their friends, have gone to exa- 
mine the country about Cordova. 

They are delighted with it — they intend to make it their home. The railway 
hence to Vera Cruz passes through it. The land is superb. It is sold by the 
government to immigrants at one dollar the acre, to be paid for in five equal 
annual instalments. 
•V" Generals Hardeman and Terry, with others from Texas,- are equally well 

x pleased with Jalisco. They are negotiating for the purchase of haciendas there 
sufficiently large to accommodate with land a settlement to be made up of 
themselves, their old neighbors and friends. 

The Rev. Mr. Mitchell, of Missouri, has already commenced a fine settlement 
<^. on the Rio Verdi, in San Luis Potosi. He and his comrades have gone into 
/ the cultivation of cotton, corn and tobacco. 

The representative of large capital, Mons. Dousdebes, has a grant for estab- 
lishing a colony from France and tfpain on the shores of Matamoras. 

Mr. Lloyd, of England, equally well supported, has engaged to establish a 
number of colonists between Vera Cruz and the capital, and a ship-load of Eu- 
ropean immigrants have just arrived in Yutacan to form the nucleus of a settle- 
ment in that fine peninsula. They have been received with ovations by the 
good people there* 

A disposition equally favorable towards immigration is manifested in various 
other parts of the country. 

Patriotic citizens have stepped forth at the call of his majesty and offered 
their own private lands, many of them upon the most favorable terms for colo- 
nization. 

Mr. Jimines invites five hundred European families to his estates in Durango, 
offering them each a house and lot, rent free, a weekly allowance of provisions 
without charge, and a guarantee of work at fair wages for five years. At the 
end of that time he further promises a gratuity of $15,000 to the community, 
and a present, to each family, of a yoke of oxen. 

Mr. Gil, of Guadalajara, invites twenty Belgian families to his highly improved 
and well stocked hacienda, offering them one'half of it for cultivation on shares, 
he finding the stock, seed, and cattle, and the colonists the labor. He offers 
also flocks and herds from which to breed, on halves. 

Other enlightened and liberal-minded landowners of the empire have offered 
their estates for colonization on terms equally liberal. 

Many false impressions have taken root abroad about Mexico and the Mexi- 
cans. These operate greatly to our disadvantage, inasmuch as they are stum- 
bling blocks in the mind of the stranger, and tend to discourage immigration. 
The world knows Mexico as a country that for the last half a century has 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 511 

been tossed by revolution. Many, listening to the stories of her troubles, and 
the tales of her calamities as told by her enemies, have come to regard the whole 
land as a " God-forsaken country," inhabited by a bigoted, illiberal, and in- 
hospitable people ; while, in fact, no part of the world can boast of a more 
refined society or a more elegant hospitality than that which is to be found in 
certain parts of the empire. 

The Mississippi valley, even in its palmiest days, could not boast any plan- 
tation that could compare in baronial splendor, lordly magnificence, and princely 
hospitality with your Mexican hacienda that has escaped the ravages of war. 
The halls of some of them are large enough to entertain and have entertained 
several hundred guests for weeks at a time. 

On some of these you will find well-appointed schools for the education of the 
children of the dependents, at the expense of the proprietor, churches built and 
chapels maintained from the same munificent bounty ; hospitals erected for the 
sick, the old servants pensioned, and all the operations of the estate carried on 
upon a scale and with expenditures followed by remunerative revenues such as 
but few farmers in Virginia or France can boast of. 

But all parts of the country are not so. 

For more than fifty years Mexico has been constantly torn by faction or 
scourged by war, and she has reaped abundantly of the harvests which always 
spiing from such seeds — forced loans and contributions upon the rich, grievous 
burdens upon the poor, the spirit of enterprise in many departments of the em- 
pire well nigh crushed out of the people, the industrial energies of entire regions 
paralyzed, and capital itself frightened off into its hiding-places. 

Such a state of things, long continued, in any country, is sure to be followed 
by a general absenteeism from their estates of the large land owners. This is 
eminently the case in Mexico. 

The effect of this absenteeism is expressed upon the landscape, and proclaimed 
by deserted mansions, neglected plantations, and other signs of ruin and decay, 
in tones that fall sadly upon many a heart. Many of these fine estates, with 
the walls of their noble old mansions still standing, are now offered for sale and 
settlement at prices varying from a few cents to a few dollars per acre. They 
are in the most choice parts of the country, and would, if restored to cultivation, 
embellish the land with a beautiful mosaic of the most lovely garden spots that 
the world ever saw. 

With the. immigrant coming to Mexico it is not as with the emigrant bound to 
the " far West " in the United States. There he goes to reclaim from the wilder- 
ness. Here lie comes, for the most part, to reclaim from ruin and the ravages 
of war. Plantations that were once garden spots invite his coming. He may 
pitch his tent on the verge of highly cultivated districts from which he can draw 
his supplies until the bountiful earth, yielding to his own good husbandry, shall 
yield him of her increase. And this the soil of Mexico, under climates that 
have no winter, will do in two or three months. 

One of the finest haciendas of the wasted districts is now on sale. It was 
abandoned some six or eight years ago in consequence of a revolution, the pro- 
prietor died, and it has not since been restored to cultivation. It yielded a 
regular annual profit of not less than $120,000. The dwelling-house alone cost 
$200,000. This hacienda is large enough to accommodate forty or fifty families 
with farms of one thousand acres each. It can now be had for less than $5 the 
acre, and after the first payment, on long time to suit purchasers. 

Other haciendas that are open to the choice and selection of the immigrant 
are much larger. 

Two, containing each more than 3,000 square miles, have been offered by the 
proprietors for colonization. 

I know of no country in which the land is held by so few and in such large 
tracts. 



512 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

This also has produced marked effects upon the nation ; it appears to have 
deprived Mexico entirely of what other countries consider their " bone and 
sinew" — their noble, enterprising, energetic, hard-working middle classes. 

Some political economists divide society in Mexico into but two classes — the 
upper and the lower — and out of a population of 8,000,000 of people, more than 
7,000,000 are said to belong to the latter. 

The statesmen of the country, with the emperor in their lead, desire to heal 
the breach rapidly. For this purpose, foreign labor, capital, and skill have been 
invited to our shores. Many good men of the country look upon immigration, 
on a large scale, as the readiest and best means of restoring the equilibrium of 
the classes, and of giving to this country and its institutions that stability and 
force which are so essential to the full development of its vast powers, capa- 
bilities, and resources. 

Hence the encouragement that is now offered to immigrants. 

This country is now in a better state to receive immigrants than it has been 
for many years. 

The empire is daily gaining ground, strength, and support, and the armed 
organization against it broken up into factions, its head and leader, Ex-President 
Juarez, having left the country. 

But now, with the dawn of a happy era of peace at last before her, Mexico, 
after half a century of continued change and revolution, finds herself in an ex- 
hausted state, and the immigrants who wish to cast their lots with her auspicious 
future must bring with them something more than brawny arms and stout hearts. 
They must not forget those appliances of iudustiy, those labor-saving machines 
and improved modes of husbandry which scientific skill and mechanical inge- 
nuity, under the blessings of stable government and long-continued peace, have, 
in other parts of the world, brought to such perfection. 

There is room, with encouraging prospects, for mechanics and artisan? of all. 
sorts, as well as for agricultural labor and scientific skill. Roads are lo bo re- 
paired and made, bridges restored, mills — grist and saw — to be erected, dwelling- 
houses to be repaired or built ; machine shops, and all those establishments which 
are so essential in the agricultural economy of other countries, will also be ex- 
tensively required. 

Immigrants who come to Mexico, from whatever country, will be warmly 
welcomed in many parts. They will meet with no open hostility anywhere, 
except from the hands of the lawless. 

To resist them, and to have the full benefit of all those conveniences — such 
as mills and other establishments just alluded to, and which every well-ordered 
agricultural community requires — it is desirable that the immigrants should 
come in bodies and form settlements of their own. 

Looking to this, the decree of September 5 invests them with a semi-military 
organization, and they are expected to be able to defend their settlements 
against robbers, who, however, rarely attack where resistance is expected. 

Protestants will be drawn into communities also for the sake of schools and 
churches. . Moreover, public interests require that each settlement should be 
large enough fairly to develop the whole system of domestic, social, and agri- 
cultural economy of the country whence the settlers came. 

For this purpose, each settlement should be large enough to support saw and 
grist mills, tanyards, blacksmiths, wheelwrights, and the various other artisans 
and machinists, who, in the pursuit of their calling, contribute to the require- 
ments of modern agriculture, with all of its improvements. 

There is still another reason why immigrants from all except Spanish coun- 
tries should form themselves into settlements of their own, and that reason is oue 
of language. A farmer coming to Mexico, ignorant of the language, ignorant of 
the customs of the country, and of the rate of wages, and settling down among 
neighbors all speaking in — to him — an unknown tongue, would find himself 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 513 

surrounded by embarrassments, none of" which would exist in a settlement made 
up of his old neighbors, kinsmen, and friends. 

It would be well, therefore, for each colony to bring with it a large portion of 
its own labor. 

The lands of Mexico have never been surveyed, nor has there been, until now, 

a land office. 

The consequence is that the government cannot tell which lands are public 
and which private, and though the chief of the laud office is vigorously at work 
organizing surveying parties, and sending them forth into the field, it is found 
that lands sufficient to receive the coming tide of immigration cannot be surveyed, 
mapped, and brought into market for some time yet. Therefore, it is recom- 
mended to those, both in Europe and the United States, who desire to come now 
to Mexico, to form themselves into companies, consisting of not less than twenty- 
five families each. Then, while those at home are making their preparations, 
let their pioneers come to Mexico for the purpose of purchasing a hacienda or 
other lands, and of making ready to receive the rest. 

To those who will thus come now, with their families, and form settlements 
sufficient to call into play all the industrial appliances, consisting of machinery, 
shops, and implements connected with agriculture in its most improved state, and 
calculated to serve as so many centres of agricultural improvement in the country, 
special encouragement is held out. 

They are invited to send forward their agents, who will receive all the infor- 
mation that the office of colonization can give, and every facility that it can throw 
in their way, as to the most desirable parts of the country in which to settle — 
the choicest localities, and the cheapest and best lands, &c. 

Having made their own selections, the government will then, in case they re- 
quire it, lend them pecuniary assistance sufficient to enable them to establish 
themselves in their new homes, and get fairly under Avay. 

M. F. MAURY, Imperial Commissioner. ■ 

Office of Colonization, 

No. 13 Catte San Juan Letran, Mexico, November 18, 1865. 



[Enclosure No. 6.] 

City of Mexico, February 9, 1866. 
My Dear Fkie.nd : Presuming a letter from a live rebel that never surren- 
dered, and who preferred exile to degradation, regardless of the acts of other 
rebels to the contrary, it is with pride and pleasure I take this means of address- 
ing you, and acknowledging my deep sense of gratitude for acts of personal 
kindness received at your hands by my wife and children while I served in the 
army of the Confederate States of America, and which will doubtless in the meas- 
ure of time assume her separate existence among the nations of the earth. I 
can only give you a very brief outline of family incidents since my wife parted 
with you at St. Louis on the 3d March, 1S65, when she received Special Or- 
der No. 58, paragraph 10, and which I shall very cheerfully bequeath as a leg- 
acy to my children and impress upon their minds the duty they owe to God and 
the land that gave them birth to resent it to the full extent of extermination of 
the government from whose authority the order emanated. I met my wife and 
children at Camden, Arkansas, on the 26th March ; on the 2d April 1 left Cam- 
den and conveyed them through the worst roads and weather you ever saw, to 
Fulton ; thence to Clarksville, Texas ; thence to Paris, where I arrived on the 
17th April, and was there detained until the 2d May, waiting to obtain convey- 
ance for my family to leave them with my brother-in-law at San Antonio, which 
place I did not reach until the 26th May, intending to return to my command ; 
but on reaching that place, having sufficient evidence that the army had dis- 
33 Mex. 



514 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

banded, and having witnessed and known so much diabolical cruelty and inhu- 
manity of the federal government, I resolved to continue my journey to this coun- 
try and abandon the God-forsaken land of the so-called United States — as you are 
well aware that the word united is only a name and not a fact. I left San An- 
tonio with my family, and arrived at Monterey on the 21st June, where I went 
into the commission business and remained there until the 19th November, 
when I left, and arrived with my family at the city of Mexico on the 19th Jan- 
uary, 1S66, and unless I change my mind shall proceed to Cordova, some sixty- 
five miles from Vera Cruz, where I shall locate and cultivate coffee, tobacco, 
&c. It is estimated from the experience of others that five years, with the 
cultivation of about eighty to one hundred acres in coffee, will make any man 
with ordinary skill and attention become immensely wealthy. There is also 
about 300 different varieties of tropical fruits, and never without vegetables 
at any season of the year. The climate is delightful, and from a strange fact, 
that in the space often leagues you can, by selection of a slope of table-lands, 
realize any climate you may desire. The climate of this city, is from its great 
height, dry and salubrious, but very light ; it is quite warm all through Decem- 
ber, January, and February — Missouri fall heat ; since 21st May up to present 
time, I have experienced less inconvenience from heat than I have in Missouri 
in the months of July and August. House rent in this city is rather high ; I 
pay $25 per month for six rooms, and every house convenience, water-closet, 
&c. We have at this time green peas, tomatoes, cabbage, turnips, beets, car- 
rots, sweet potatoes, Irish potatoes, turkeys, eggs, chickens, fresh beef, pork, 
bananas, oranges, lemons, and one hundred other different varieties of fruits 
and vegetables, fresh and in abundance at this time, and cheap. At first, on ac- 
count of the language, my wife thought she never would like to live in the coun- 
try, but necessity soon forces a person to learn to speak it. We have a female 
servant, Mexican, we pay five dollars per month. On the 21st January, at 
11.40 a. m., my wife was safely delivered of a fine, healthy, rebel child, a little 
girl, whom we have named Carlotta, after the empress of Mexico, and deservedly 
so, because she has been and still is the true friend of true confederates. Both 
my wife, Susey, Bartlett and Carlotta, are all well and in fine health. Bartlett 
has grown to be a very fine boy, and has learned to speak Spanish better than 
his mother or myself. There appears to be very little known of this country 
in the United States, or other countries — concerning its interior mineral and ag- 
ricultural wealth ; it is far beyond anything I ever before conceived of, and I 
must say I have been very agreeably disappointed. I was sorry to see and wit- 
ness so many confederates come to Mexico with wrong and improper motives ; 
some imagined that they would be forthwith installed into some fat office, like 
Commodore Maury, and because they were not, and not being disposed to adapt 
themselves to temporary inconvenience, would not labor, and to their shame 
went back to the dis-United States, like a dog returning to his vomit ; whereas 
had they been patient, and not tried to force things whether or no, they would, 
by settling in colonies of twenty-five and fifty families, as is now the case at 
Cordova, Rio Verde, and other places — they would all have done well and been 
of mutual assistance to each other. The only temptation that I or any of my 
family could have to return to the States would be on the occasion of a war 
with any other power on earth, and that of the federal government, in which 
event you may expect to see me in the service of that army, whatever army it 
may be. 

At present I know of no country that can offer as many inducements to in- 
telligent agricultural, mechanical, or other men of sound, sober, practical busi- 
ness capacities, as Mexico, notwithstanding all that random writers have said to 
the contrary ; but I must be candid with you, that Englishmen and Americans 
must settle in colonies of from fifteen to one hundred families, otherwise, by scat- 
tering, isolated few by themselves, they actually become lost for any good pur- 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 515 

pose to themselves or their race, and every colony, however small, must have 
within themselves their proper quota of the common trades of life, particularly 
blacksmiths, Avagon makers, carpenters, &c. In point of climate and natural 
good health, I prefer that of Mexico to any part of the States. There are a 
great many Americans and English in business in this city, and they have all 
grown rich. 

I can, upon the information I have derived from my wife, on the subject of 
one article of trade, soap and its manufacture here, according to the patent mode 
which she says was offered to you at St. Louis for county rights in Missouri for 
sale, guarantee to you an independent fortune in eighteen months, if you will 
purchase the right from the patentee for all of Mexico ; and, if you desire, I will 
engage in the business with you to our mutual interests and profit. I feel deeply 
and personally interested in this matter, and wish to hear from you immediately 
on the subject. Common brown soap, but good, sells here retail at 18f cents per 
pound. You had better come at once to Vera Cruz as an immigrant, and bring 
the necessary machinery to make the soap with you, and it will be admitted free 
of duty. Let me hear from you at once, or if you will not come, procure the 
the agency of the patentee for the whole of Mexico for me, and I will put it 
through, stating rate per cent., commission, &c. 

The railroad from Vera Cruz to this city will be completed in three months ; 
telegraph is now in working order all through ; common castings sell here at 
37^ per pound. 

With kind regards and best wishes of my wife, self, and little ones, I am 
your friend, faithfully, 

BENJ. CROWTHER. J( 

Mr. J. Calvin Littrell. 

P. S. — I wish you to write to old man William Cogswell, sr., to send you my 
box of books, in his care, and I shall be under many obligations to you to for- 
ward the same to me, care of Snowden R. Andrews, at Vera Cruz ; or if you will 
come, as I wish you to do, bring it with you. Give our best regards to all our 
friends. We will have a colony at Cordova of about one hundred families this 
spring and they are all good rebs. B. C. 

Direct your letters to me as follows : Benj. Crowther, en cargo de los sures, 
P. A. Lohse & Sons, No. 2 calle del Espiritu de Santo, ciudad de Mexico. 

[The envelope was marked as follows : J. Calvin Littrell, box 275, St. Louis, 
Mo., or care of Wm. H. Stephens, esq., Fourth street, St. Louis, Mo.] 



^Enclosure No. 7.] 

Office Colonization, 13 San Juan de Letran, 

Mexico, February 17, 1866. 

Sir : In reply to yours of the 24th December last, I beg leave to forward you 
enclosed some information relative to Mexican immigration and Mexico. 

As yet no funds have been placed at the disposal of this office for defraying 
the expenses of immigrants here. The policy of your government in forbidding 
Mexican colonization agents in the United States has defeated this generous in- 
tention of my emperor. 

Very truly, RICHARD L. MAURY, 

Sub- Co?n?nissioner 
James M. Payne, 

Nashville, Tennessee. 



[For enclosure No. 8 see enclosures No. 9 to No. 15.] 



516 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

[Enclosure No. 9.] 

Mexico, March 3, 1866. 
My Dear Sir : My father Las just sailed for England for the purpose of 
returning with his family to Mexico after the rainy season, in October next. I 
will forward your letter just received, of the 21st of January, to him there. He 
will be delighted to hear from you, for your name is often on his lips. His ad- 
dress is "Care of Rev. F. W. Tremlett, the Parsonage, Belsize Square, London, 
N. W." 

I enclose you a circular letter of his, which I am sure you will read with in- 
terest. It was addressed to the Rev. Dr. Hawkes, of New York, in answer to 
one from him, expressing a desire to immigrate, and to learn something of the 
country of Mexico before leaving his home in New York. 

I hope that you will consider that both myself and my office are entirely at 
your service to render you any aid, assistance, or information that we can, or 
that you may desire. 

I hope in a few months to have published a little work on Mexico, which, in 
view of the accuracy of the information which it will contain, I think will be 
very well received by those of the South whose attention has been attracted 
towards Mexico. 

Most sincerely and truly, 

RICHARD L. MAURY, 
Sub- Commissioner of Colonization, late Colonel C. S. Army. 

W. C. S. Ventress, New Orleans. 



[Enclosure No. 10.] 

Office Colonization, 13 San Juan de Letran, 

Mexico, March 14, 1866. 
Sir: Your letter of January 30 has just been received. You may rely upon 
the enclosed circular as accurate. 

The inducements offered to immigrants by imperial decree are exemption from 
taxation, military conscription for a term of years, from the payment of all or 
any import dues on personal effects or farming utensils, religious libert} 7 , and a 
grant of land of 640 acres to married men or 320 to single, either gratis or at low 
rates and accommodating terms. 
Very truly, 

RICHARD L. MAURY, 
Sub-Commissioner, late Colonel C. S. Army. 

Reuben Herndon, Galveston, Texas. 



[Enclosure No. 11.— From the New York Tribune, June 22, 1866.] 

Vera Cruz, June 6, ]866. 
The hopes the confederate emigrants to Mexico had entertained of an exten- 
sive settlement in that country under the paternal hand of a much admired and 
praised monarch, as they themselves designated Maximilian, are at an end. The 
Cordova colony, founded by General Price and Judge Harris, has broken up. 
The far-famed city of Carlotta, laid out by the former, and consisting of a 
house, a barn, and a stable, has been destroyed. The fields of coffee, by means 
of which Judge Perkins, of Louisiana, expected to retrieve his lost fortunes, 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 517 

have been ravaged ; the pineapple plants, out of which General Price was to 
distil a most delicious fourth-proof brandy, have been uprooted and trampled 
upon by the hoofs of the guerilleros' mustangs ; the palm-roofed shanties under 
the shelter of which about one hundred southern emigrants have sought a ref- 
uge have been burned to the ground, and their inmates, homeless and penniless, 
compelled to fly to the city of Cordova for protection, are now seriously con- 
templating the abandonment of Mexico forever, and the going back to the Uni- 
ted States. 

The history of the misfortunes of the Cordova colony is short but sugges- 
tive. In the month of January last several confederate settlers had entered into 
an agreement with a number of Indians, or peons, for a certain stated amount 
of labor, which the latter were boitnd to perform. It seems, however, that 
after three months the Indians, becoming disgusted with their bargain, if not 
with their employers, refused to work any longer. This, of course, Avas most 
injurious to the interests of the confederate planters. As it was impossible for 
them to find laborers anywhere else, the withdrawal of their field hands de- 
stroyed all hopes of a crop, and virtually placed them in a worse condition than 
they occupied at the outset. In this predicament they decided that the only 
way to save themselves from utter ruin was to compel these Indian laborers to 
fulfil their contracts, and to use violence in case of resistance. They went to a 
hamlet a few miles from Carlotta city, and there tried to persuade the Indians 
to come back to the field and resume their labors. But their efforts were of no 
avail ; the Indians obstinately declined going. Thereupon the confederates 
seized the Indians, tied their hands with ropes, and driving them like a herd ot 
cattle back to their fields, forced them by threats and blows to fulfil their con- 
tracts. 

The liberals, who are encamped all around Cordova, at a distance of three 
to five miles, were no sooner apprised of this fact than they met, to the number 
of about a thousand, and decided to revenge with fire and sword the insult upon 
their countrymen. They came by night upon the city of Carlotta and the 
farms surrounding it, entered the houses of the settlers, whom they surprised, 
carried twenty-eight of them away as hostages, dispersed the rest, burned sev- 
eral houses and shanties, and robbed all they could rob. The liberals spared, 
however, the homes of General Price, Judge Harris, Perkins, and others, who 
had shown themselves opposed to all violence against the natives of the coun- 
try. These gentlemen, I understand, are actually at Cordova with their fami- 
lies, under protection of the military authorities ; they have abandoned all no- 
tion of settling in Mexico and are making preparations for returning to the 
United States. 

This retaliation of the Mexican liberals upon the confederates occurred at 
about eighteen miles from Cordova, a city having an imperial garrison and serv- 
ing as a depot to the railroad company. If the liberals have such power in a 
place which is under the entire control of the military, I leave you to imagine 
what their influence must be in the frontier States, remote from all imperialist 
protection, and where Maximilian's means of action are essentially limited. Nor 
am I astonished to learn of the horrible condition of that State, and particularly 
of Sonora, Michoacan, Coahuila, and others, now the theatre of the most sav- 
age and heart-rending cruelties. 

THE CONFEDERATE COLONY AT CORDOVA. 
[From the Mexican Times, June 16.] 

The colony at Cordova has suffered a serious interruption at the hands of 
liberals or robbers, it is not known which, but his excellency Marshal Bazaine 
has given such orders as will, it is lelieved, secure the settlers in future against 
similar attacks. We are glad to learn that the colonists themselves have also 



518 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

formed an organization for self-defence, and while, from the limited number who 
are thus organized, the protection afforded will not be as perfect as could be 
wished, yet, with the assistance of the military, it is thought that it will be 
effective for the future. 

We are glad to learn from those of our countrymen who have lately had busi- 
ness to transact with his excellency Sr. Somera, minister of fomento, in rela- 
tion to immigration, that there is as much activity in the acquisition and surveys 
of lands for colonization as have ever been known on the part of the govern- 
ment ; that the policy of encouraging immigration is earnestly adhered to, and 
that many and very desirable lands have recently been obtained for that pur- 
pose. Messrs. Robert Laurence, Hardeman and McCausland have been em- 
ployed to make extensive surveys, and already there are several efficient par- 
ties in the field engaged in this operation. 



[Enclosure No. 12. — From the Missouri Republican.] 

Cordova, Mexico, Saturday, December 16, 18G5. 

My Dear Sir : Your kind and much esteemed favor of the 19th ultimo was 
handed me a few days since, and I now proceed to answer it, in camp and with- 
out shelter, but upon my own six hundred and forty acres, near the town of 
Cordova and the railroad leading from Vera Cruz to the city of Mexico. The 
lands in this vicinity are not surpassed by any of the plate lands in fertility of 
soil and in the finest climate I ever saw, the thermometer never above ninety 
degrees or below seventy, and in full view of mountains covered with perpetual 
snow. I am gratified to be able to say that as soon as the survey was com- 
pleted the thirty confederates now here unanimously tendered me the choice of 
sections. I think I have made a judicious selection. I have donated to the 
colonists twenty-four acres for a town site on a rushing stream of water and by 
a large spring of excellent water. We have laid off the ground into town lots 
and named it Carlotta, after the Empress, and we are all now upon our lots 
clearing away the brush to erect our houses. I wrote my family to-day to join 
me here as soon as they can raise the means to do so. I cannot think of re- 
turning to the States and be required to ask pardon for the action I took in the 
struggle. I am entirely satisfied with the part I took. I would do the same 
again under similar circumstances. I did all that my talents enabled me to do 
to avert the calamity of war. I was not a secessionist, but Avhen the struggle 
came I did not hesitate to take the side of the South. 

I pray God that my fears for the future of the South may never be realized ; 
but when the right is given to the negro to bring suit, testify before courts, and 
vote in elections, you all had better be in Mexico. 

There is no doubt of the stability of this government ; French troops are ar- 
riving every Aveek, and the marauding bands that have infested the country for 
ages past are fast being exterminated ; no quarters are given. 

When the character of our lands is well understood, immigration will be a 
fixed fact under any circumstances, and the finest lands that can now be pro- 
cured at low rates will command large prices. I have never known the cultiva- 
tion of lands to yield such large profits. My neighbor, Mr. Fink, (a man of sci- 
ence,) cultivates eighty (SO) acres in coffee with ten hands, and sold his last year's 
crop for $16,000. His coffee-field, shaded with every variety of fruit trees, in 
full bearing, and the walks fringed with the pineapple, is the most beautiful 
sight T have ever seen. 

I am, dear sir, your friend, truly, 

STERLING PRICE. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 519 

No. 150. 

Mr. Seward to Scfior Romero. 

Department of State, 

Washington, August 16, 1S66. 
Sir: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of 
the 3d instant, containing information with regard to the emigration of certain 
citizens of the United States for Mexico, for which be pleased to receive my 
thanks. 

I avail myself of the present occasion to renew to you the assurances of my 
most distinguished consideration. 



WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 



Senor Don Matias Romero, Sfc, ifc., §c. 



No. 151. 

Sefior Romero to Mr. Seward. 
[Translation.] 

Mexican Legation to the United States of America, 

Washington, December 12, 1866. 

Mr. Secretary: Continuing the transmission which I have made to your 
department of the documents which have relation to the project of establishing 
colonies in Mexico of discontented citizens of the southern portion of the United 
States, engaged in sustaining the usurpation of the Austrian ex-archduke, Don 
Fernando Maximilian, I have now the honor to remit to you two letters, with 
their annexes, addressed by Richard L. Maury, called sub-commissioner of colo- 
nization in Mexico, and ex-colonel in the army of the confederate States, to M. 
M. Pettis, of Montgomery, Alabama, and to 0. Gr. O'Neal, of Columbus, Geor- 
gia, and dated the 5th and 10th of April of the current year. 

I gladly avail of this occasion, Mr. Secretary, to renew to you the assurances 
of my most distinguished consideration. 

M. ROMERO. 

Hon. W. H. Seward, fyv., &fc., Sfc. 



[ Enclosure No 1.] 

Office of Colonization, 13 San Juan de Letran, 

Mexico, April 5, 1S66. 

Sir: Your letter of February 12 has just been received. 

The agents of this office in the south have all been arrested, and required to 
give up their appointment. Therefore, no transportation can be furnished you. 

The government only offers lands to settlers. Many private individuals and 
companies, however, offer aid of every sort during the first few years. Mr. 
Forns you will find exceedingly kindly disposed towards those who come to his 
land. (See enclosed circular.) 

You will do most wisely to bring a few negro laborers with you. They must 
be regularly apprenticed to you, for not less than five nor more than ten years, 
and the government will compel them to observe their indentures if they should 
be disposed to run away before their time is out. 



520 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

As a No. 1 surveyor, you would have very good chances for employment 
here. Still a place could not be kept for you, because as the demand occurs it 
must be supplied at once. Still, places are every day opening up for those who 
are on the spot. 

Respectfully, 

RICHARD L. MAURY, 
Sub- Commissioner, late Colonel C. S. Army. 
M. M. Pettis, Montgomery, Alabama. 



[Enclosure No. '2. ] 
LATEST FROM MEXICO. 

Arrival of Missourians. — Maximilian firmly seated. — Ex-Governor Allen pub- 
lishing a jiaper in Mexico. — The emigrants and their colony. — Liberal grants 
of land. — The grandson of Ilurbide heir to the throne. — List of the exiles. 

We had a call last night from Messrs. R. H, Thomas and J. M. Lane, of Mis- 
souri, who were members of the body-guard of Major General Sterling Price, 
late Confederate States army, and accompanied him to the city of Mexico. 
They determined, after so doing, to return to their homes, and started September 
18, going by stage to Paso del Macho, and thence by rail to Vera Cruz, arriving 
here yesterday on a sailing vessel. 

These gentlemen report the country somewhat disturbed by guerillas, but 
very firmly in the possession of the emperor Maximilian, whom they regard as 
highly capable of making Mexico as prosperous as any other ruler can. 

These gentlemen did us the favor to bring us the first number of the Mexican 
Times, dated September 16, which they were instructed by the distinguished 
editor and proprietor, Governor Henry W. Allen, to bring to us, and for which 
we thank both him and them. The agents for the Times in this city are Messrs. 
Nugent & Co. Our visitors also inform us that the Americans who had emi- 
grated to Mexico are about to settle at Cordova, about half way between the 
cities of Mexico and Vera Cruz, in a most delightful region, very rich and healthy, 
where tropical fruits grow wild, and where the best coffee they ever drank is 
produced. It has a sufficient market in the country, and is never carried out of 
it. Grants are made to families of 640 acres, and 320 to single men. Ex-Gov- 
ernor Allen, our informants tell us, went with General Price, General Magruder, 
Commodore Maury, and other American emigrants, to superintend the laying 
out of the lands for these colonists. 

We find in the Times the important statement that on the day of its issue, the 
independence day of Mexico, their majesties were to adopt as their successor to 
the throne of the Mexican empire, Augustin Iturbide, two years of age, grandson 
of the lamented emperor of that name, and the son of an American mother. 
Nothing could be better calculated to insure the emperor the love and confidence 
of the people of Mexico. 

We append an extract from the prospectus of the Times, to show what is its 
object. Prom this we must doubt much that Governor Allen at present thinks 
of returning to this State. He says : 

" The Times will advocate — 

" 1. Immigration and progress — giving full and accurate descriptions of the 
rich lands and their products, the valuable mines and minerals and the various 
climates of Mexico. 

" 2. Railroads and manufactories, and internal improvements of every kind. 

" 3. Special attention will be given to arts and sciences, to polite literature, 
and to the general news of the day, foreign and domestic." 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 521 

The following is a list which the Times gives of " emigrants of the United 
States of America and of strangers" visiting Mexico : 

Sterling Price, Missouri; J. B. Magruder, Virginia; Ishaui G. Harris, Ten- 
nessee; E. Clark, Texas; Trusten Polk, Jo. O. Shelby, Missouri; H. W. Allen, 
H. Dennis, W. A. Broadwell, Louisiana ; M. F. Maury, Virginia ; J. Perkins, 
Louisiana ; Heber Price, H. M. Duncan, J. P. Tucker, Missouri ; W. P. Harde- 
man, H. P. Bee, M. W. Sims, Texas ; Geo. Young, R. J. Laurence, C. G Jones, 
J.N. Edwards, Missouri; D. C. Cage, Louisiana; W. Yowell, George Hall, 
F M Kephart. R. A. Collins, Y. H. Blackwell, J. Terry, J. Moreland, T. Bos- 
well, W. J. Mc Arthur, J. C. Wood, E. Wood, M. M. Langhorne, F. T. Mitchell 
and family, Missouri ; Mr. Wood and wife, Missouri ; D. W. Bouldin, Missouri ; 
S. Hunkel, Missouri ; J. Beard, Missouri ; W. Skidmore, Missouri ; H.Thomas, 
Missouri; C. M. Wilcox, Tennessee; R. Joseph, Missouri; T. Weston, Louisi- 
ana ; H. B. Acton, Missouri : J. Donahoe, California ; I. Reed, Virginia ; T. J. 
Divine, Texas ; J. Brown, North Carolina; Seiior Conrow, Missouri; Senor 
O'Bannon, South Carolina ; Seiior Kimmel, Missouri ; D. Leadbetter, Alabama; 
Senor Jones, Texas ; Senor Thompson, H. T. Chikls and family, Missouri ; M. 
L. Kritser, Missouri; J. S. Kritser, Missouri; T. Whalen, California; J. M. 
Meador, T. Collins, AY. Fell, B. F. Jones, J. B. Kirtley, J. B. Conner, G. M. 
Winship, J. Ward, Missouri ; E. Lilly, N. T. Fincher, Texas ; H. McNamee, 
California ; R. J. Flynn, R. H. S. Thompson, Louisiana ; Senor Bartlett, Mis- 
sissippi ; G. Mitchell, J. N. Lane, B. H. Lyon, Kentucky ; J. J. Gaenslen, Vir- 
ginia ; T. C. Hindman, Arkansas ; J. H. Brown and family, J. Brown, P. M. 
Brown, H. C. Cook, Texas ; Richard Taylor, Kentucky ; O. M. Watkins, Lou- 
isiana ; T, C. Reynolds, Missouri; A. Ridley, California; E. Kirby Smith, 
Florida ; J. N. Martin, J. G. Walker, Missouri ; T. 0. Moore, Louisiana ; W. 
Preston, Seiior Roberts, Texas ; Alfred Mordecai, North Carolina. 

Of the above, Judge Divine, of Texas, has returned to San Antonio, where 
he resided as Confederate States district judge, during the war. Senor Roberts 
is, we presume, Judge Roberts, formerly of the State supreme court of Texas, 
and colonel late Confederate States ai*my ; W. Preston, of Kentucky, was 
United States minister to Spain, aud a general in the late Confederate States - 
army. J. G. Walker, of Missouri, captain in the United States mounted rifles, 
and major general Confederate States army, commanding district of Texas just 
before the surrender of the trans-Mississippi department, is now in England, we 
understand, and desirous of coming back. A. Ridley came from California with 
General Sidney Johnston ; was a major of a Texas cavalry regiment ; was cap- 
tured in the attack on Donaklsonville by Tom Greene's men, in 1S63, and was 
kept a prisoner on Johnson's island, returning to Texas just before its surrender. 
T. C. Reynolds was the confederate governor of Missouri. 0. M. Watkins, of 
Louisiana, was formerly of Alabama, and served with Magruder in a Louisiana 
regiment on the peninsula, and then on his staff in Texas. General T. C. Hind- 
man was understood, several months before Lee's surrender — on his arrival at 
Shreveport from Georgia, after Hood's defeat — to have given up the confederate 
cause as hopeless. He went from San Antonio to Shreveport and thence to 
Monterey. J. J. Gaenslcn was a surgeon in the old army, and also in the con- 
federate service, with Magruder, and then with Slaughter, on the Rio Grande. 
D. Leadbetter was an officer of the old army, we believe, and a general in the , 
Confederate States service. He was under Kirby Smith, in Texas, but a short 
time before the latter's surrender. Senor O'Bannon, of South Carolina, was 
well known and very popular in the old army. He served gallantly with the 
Palmetto regiment in the Mexican war, and was given a position as an officer 
in the regular infantry at the close of the war. He was Bragg's chief qu irter- 
master in his Kentucky campaign, and as Kirby Smith's chief quartermaster 
was noted for his energy and integrity. He once kicked a man down stairs in 
his office, at Shreveport, who offered him a big bribe. We heard an old friend 



522 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

of his say the other day, that O'Bannon went to Mexico as poor as a church 
mouse. C. M. Wilcox Avas in the old army, and a well known general in Lee's 
army. Sterling Price, Maury, Perkins, of Louisiana, Magruder, I. G-. Harris, 
Edward Clark, of Texas, Shelby, of Missouri, Moore and Allen, of Louisiana, 
are too well known to need any showing of who they are. Generals W. P. 
Hardeman and Ham. Bee are old Texas names — the former one of the few left 
of the real Texas rangers of the days of Jack Hays and Gillespie. 

We hope yet to see all these gentlemen returning to their former homes and 
country. Those who stood so well the brunt of battle and revolution for what 
they deemed a right principle, owe it to their native land to labor as persistently 
in restoring peace and prosperity to it, after the struggle is over. Could they 
follow a nobler example than Lee and Johnston ? 



[Enclosure No. 3.] 

Office of Colonization, Mexico, 

February 7, I860. 

My Dear Sir : I have received your letter, inquiring, like many others, about 
Mexico, with the view of making it their home. 

You know its geographical features, and the fame of its mineral wealth. Its 
soil is of unsurpassed fertility, and its climate, after you begin to ascend the table- 
land, is as delicious and healthful as the heart of man can desire. 

The emperor is ruling wisely and mildly. Their majesties are beloved by 
the imperialists and respected by all. They move as freely among the people 
as the President of the United States ever did in days of yore 

The empire is continually gaining ground. Enterprise is abroad ; many works 
of internal improvement are already under way and about to be commenced. 
Capital is leaving its hiding-places, and the columns of the newspaper press are 
daily, and for months have been, filled with the names of liberals who, looking 
upon the empire as a success, and their cause as a failure, have laid down their 
arms, and are giving in their adhesion. 

Property and life are daily becoming more secure. As an illustration, the 
doors of the house in which I live are without locks ; nor do I ever take care 
even to shut any of them before I go to bed. True there is a porter below, but 
the building is an old convent, inhabited and frequented by hundreds of people, 
who are not barred from each other by any fastenings. 

The impressions abroad about Mexico are very erroneous. With regard to 
the inquiries in behalf of our friends who desire to come to this lovely land, I 
have to say they can find desirable locations in any climate they please, and 
suitable for the cultivation of any staple they prefer, or the raising of any kind 
of stock. 

As to the most profitable branch of agricultural industry, that varies with the 
locality, the variation depending as well upon the convenience and circumstances 
of the market as upon geographical conditions. Owing- to the want of roads, 
navigable rivers, and canals, internal transportation is tedious and expensive, 
and exportation difficult. Hence, in one part of the empire, the spectacle has 
»not been unfrequently presented of breadstufFs at famine prices, while in a neigh- 
boring department they were wasting for the want of consumers. 

The most desirable location, therefore, for emigrants who are " Aveli to do," 
(and this is the class that must lead the way,) are on what may be called the 
intertropical belt of Mexico, within which Cordova and Jalapa are situated. This 
is a sort of steppe or slope, which rises from the low lands of the coast to the 
various climates which are to be found in all intertropical latitudes between the 
heights of from 2,000 to 4,000 feet above the sea. Within this range the cli- 
mates are those of perpetual summer ; they are healthy and delightful. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. , 523 

These steppes encircle the empire on the east, south, and west. They over- 
look the valley of the Coatzacoalcos and the Gulf of Mexico on one side, and the 
Pacific ocean on the other, and abound in garden spots as beautiful as Eden 
itself, and as sinful too Cordova and Jalapa are such places ; they are in sight 
of the sea. The farmer there, and at many other places, may reap from the same 
field two or three crops annually, with an increase of three or four hundred fold 
upon the seed sown. 

In the course of the present year a railway is to be completed from each of . 
these points to Vera Cruz, which will bring them fairly within the domains of 
foreign commerce. 

Corn, cotton, coffee, sugar, and tobacco all do well here, hut as a rule I con- 
sider coffee, cotton, and tobacco the most profitable staples of cultivation, because 
they can best bear transportation and stand competition in foreign markets. 

Formerly, and before the country began to be tossed and vexed by revolution, 
lands in the neighborhood of these two cities were valued at from $75 to $100 
per acre. 

Many of these splendid haciendas — some of them large enough to accommodate 
with elegant farms ten times fifty families — were broken up during the revolu- 
tions, and their owners compelled to seek safety elsewhere. 

They have fallen into ruin and decay through absenteeism; and now that 
order is restored, the empire gaining ground, and the internal improvements en- 
couraged by the wise policy of the emperor, these lands are coming into demand 
again. But present owners find themselves too poor to repair and bring them 
under cultivation again. They are for sale, and may be bought at from two 
dollars to three dollars per acre. 

These abandoned Haciendas (and they are to be found in all parts of the em- 
pire) are the places for your thrifty American farmers to establish themselves. 
Let them, therefore, send out their head men to select a place for the whole set- 
tlement, to be followed immediately by their young men, to sow and plant and 
build and repair, and make ready for the old men, the women, and the children, 
and others to follow by the time the crops are ready. 

They will find it, at first, best to establish themselves in villages, as well for 
mutual convenience as for protection against the bands of lawless marauders, who 
are ever ready to pounce upon the solitary farmer. Immigrants should bring 
with them such mechanics as are required to satisfy their own wants and neces- 
sities. Tell those who come to count upon all the assistance, every facility, and 
the best information that it is in my power to afford, or within the province of 
this office to give. 

In the northern departments the vine flourishes well and the wine is excellent. 
On the slopes next the sea cochineal and indigo are cultivated ; drugs aud gums 
and spices collected. The most profitable stock raising are mules, horses, and 
goats. There is room for much improvement in the breed of horses, cattle, and 
sheep. 

The immigrant is allowed free exercise of religious worship. It is guaranteed 
to him both by an ordinance of the empire and a dispensation of the Pope. He 
is also entitled, on entering the country, to a free duty permit for all of his cat- 
tle and effects, and exemption from all taxation for one year, and from military 
conscription for five years. He is allowed to bring in his arms also, and, with 
his neighbors, to form a sedentary militia for mutual defence against robbers, 
who are daily becoming less bold. But he may not bring in anything for sale, 
exchange, or barter without the payment of full duties. 

In the rural districts the Indians generally are honest; indeed, in some parts 
of the country theft among them is unknown. They arc a gentle and docile 
race. Simple in their habits, they are superstitious, entering zealously into all 
the festivities aud ceremonies of the church. They seem not to care to earn mors 
than a dollar or two a week, and when they have done this, whether by two or 



524 . CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

three days of labor, they generally stop work and frolic till their money is gone, 
when they are ready to earn, by labor in the field, the next instalment. The 
Sabbath is not much observed by them or the Mexicans generally, except as a 
day of parade and pleasure. As a rule the wages of farm hands are paid weekly 
in cash, and at the rate generally of from twenty-five to fifty cents a day, the 
laborer finding himself. 

Silver is the principal circulating medium. There are also gold and copper 
coins, but no bank notes. 

The implements of husbandry are generally rude, and agriculture by no means 
in a high state of improvement. Nevertheless the Indians and the mixed classes, 
of whom there are about seven millions, are skilful laborers in their way. Their 
mode of husbandry is, in the way of contrast, so much the better for the display 
by the European or American farmer of his exquisite skill, and of the virtues 
of his improved implements, which last he can bring in duty free. 

It is not advisable at present for immigrants without money to come to Mexico, 
unless they come under the auspices of some friend, who can assist them, or un- 
der the care of some one of the various companies for establishing colonies that 
have been recently incorporated. Some of these propose to bring the immi- 
grants into the country ; to furnish them with land ; to establish them on their 
farms ; to subsist them for a while ; and to receive a certain portion of their 
crops for the loans advanced for these various services Many who have some 
means, and desire to come in companies to Mexico and establish themselves on 
some of these fine, but abandoned, haciendas, wish to know where these hacien- 
das are, and their price. 

Answer. In almost every part, and at any price, from a few cents to a few 
dollars the acre. 

Of course the prices named to me, though moderate, are the asking prices. 

It is best for every such company of immigrants to send some of their num- 
ber ahead to select a place, and bargain for it themselves. Bryant, from Arkan- 
sas, has established a colony in Chihuahua. Mitchell, of Missouri, another on 
the Rio Verde, in the department of San Luis Potosi. Terry, of Texas, another 
in Jalisco. 

They rent at first, with the privilege of purchase in the mean time at a stated 
price. 

Then there is the fine colony of Carlotta, near Cordova, where the lands were 
abandoned. There was a number of haciendas in that neighborhood that were 
indebted for more than they were worth to the church, and which, by the 
Juarez government, were confiscated. 

These have been ex-appropriated by the emperor and applied to colonization. 

These lands are sold to immigrants at $1 per acre in five equal annual instal- 
ments. Generals Price and Shelby, of Missouri, Governor Harris, of Tennessee, 
Judge Perkins, of Louisiana, the Rev. Mr. Holeman, of Missouri, and a num- 
ber of others, have already established themselves there. 

They are all highly pleased with their prospects. By the time the railway 
hence to Vera Cruz is completed, and their last instalment falls due, they will 
have improved their farms, when the most staid among them expect that their 
lands will be worth $10, $20, and even $50 per acre. A gentleman from Louisi- 
ana has been there for seven or eight years. He established a coffee planta- 
tion of eighty acres, which is now in good bearing, and the crop from which, 
last year, was valued at $16,000. 

The Cordova coffee sells in New York market as Java, and the tobacco equals 
that of Cuba, while the sugar has fourteen per cent, more of saccharine matter 
than that of Cuba. 

It will cost at the rate of some $5 or $6 per acre to clear, enclose and bring 
these lands under cultivation. Hence it will be much cheaper for those who 
have a little money to buy haciendas with ground already cleared, fences made^ 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 525 

and houses, or at least walls of houses, already erected. All the lauds of this 
colony are already, or soon will be, taken up. Each married man there is 
allowed 640 acres, but it is now generally admitted that one-fourth of that 
quantity will probably be quite as much as one family will be able to cultivate. 

It is fertile, and wonderfully productive. 

But to emigrants with a little capital, the speedy filling up of this colony 
should not be disheartening, under the idea that there are no more good lands 
and choice spots. 

There are better lands than these, both about Cordova and Jalapa, which. 
present owners not being able to work, are ready to sell on favorable terms. 

Agents have been established at various convenient points to assist immigrants 
on their arrival in the country, by giving them information and furnishing them 
with the necessary certificates and passports to enable them to pass the custom- 
houses, to enjoy all the rights, privileges, and exemptions of the emperor's de- 
cree. 

It has not been, as yet, practicable to establish agencies on the Rio Grande, 
but as soon as it may be done, one will be stationed at Presidio del Norte. 

At present the following agencies have been established, viz : 

Y. P. Oropesa, at Vera Cruz; J. Perkins, formerly of Louisiana, at Cordova ; 
J. T. Lux, formerly of New Mexico, at Monterey ; Alonso Ridley, formerly of 
California, at Mazatlan ; captain of the port of Tampico, at Tampico ; captain 
of the port of S. Bias, at S. Bias ; captain of the port of Matamoras, at Mata- 
moras; D. Ramon de la Vega, president de Mejoras de Colima, at Manzanilla. 

I am about to embark for England, expecting to return to this beautiful land 
accompanied by my family. The office is left in charge of the sub-commissioner, 
R. L. Maury, who, during my absence will attend to the business of the office. 
He is earnest in the cause, and has now in hand a guide-book for immigrants 
which will soon be ready for the press. 

The rainy season commences in June and ends in October. Immigrants 
should not come by sea during that time. 

There are many inquiries made also as to religious liberty in Mexico. 

Perfect freedom of worship is guaranteed by the organic law of the empire, 
and sanctioned by the Pope. 

I have just returned from the palace, where I had a long and interesting 
interview with the emperor. I read him your questions ; we discussed them 
seriatim ; and he gave his answers to them one by one ; I repeat your questions 
and give his answers : 

" 1. Will Protestant clergymen be tolerated, and permitted to enjoy their re- 
ligious opinions and worship in these colonies without molestation ?" 

Yes, and encouraged. 

" 2. Can a support be provided for such clergymen ?" 

Yes, as soon as I get my finances in a better condition. 

" 3. Will they be sustained in the establishment of Protestant schools and 
colleges ?" 

Yes. 

" 4. Would a Protestant bishop be allowed among them '?" 

Certainly. 

" 5. Will the government do anything towards the support of the schools 
and colleges ?" 

Yes. 

"6. Could endowments of land, or otherwise, now be made for their sup- 
port?" 

Yes, by lands and voluntary contributions now, and money from the govern- 
ment afterwards. 

" 7. Would it be possible for the present to engraft on the University of 



526 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

Mexico a department in which the studies, lectures, and instructions in general, 
should be in the English language ?" 

The question suggests a capital idea ; converse further with upon that 

point. I desire to see communities of different religious persuasions established 
in this country, and to give encouragement to all, for they act and react upon 
each other with wholesome effect. 

I have quoted as nearly as, after the interval of an hour, I can remember the 
words used by this remarkable, clear-headed, and business-like sovereign. 

There is a clergyman, the Rev. Mr. Holeman, in the colony of Carlotta, near 
Cordova. He is the only preacher, except the Rev. Mr. Mitchell, (Methodist,) 
of the Rio Verde colony, that I have as yet heard of among the settlers. 

In the city of Mexico there is a large number of English and American resi- 
dents who are anxious to engage the services of an Episcopal clergyman, who 
can minister unto them in their mother tongue. They meet at the houses of 
one another on Sundays, when the services of the church and a sermon are 
read. I have attended service in a sort of upper loft, or retired room, such as 
we may imagine the early Christians met together in, and in which the congre- 
gation were all Mexicans. There were not more than a dozen or two, but 
enough apparently, to represent all classes of society. 

The services were performed in Spanish, with the prayer-book in that lan- 
guage. The sermon was a very good one. It was also preached in Spanish, 
by a Mexican, who had been a priest of the Roman Catholic church. Other 
Protestant denominations also have their meetings in the same quiet way, and 
Protestant bibles are freely sold. So you observe, my dear sir, even here in 
Mexico, a field and a harvest, much room for and a great lack of laborers. 

Come to us ! 

We have accounts now of some six or eight hundred immigrants with their 
families, who are on their way thence, and who are preparing to come hither. 

I had an offer this morning of lands for colonization on the north bank of the 
Panuco river. 

They commence about thirty miles west of Tampico, and extend up to the 
table land. This tract includes several hundred square leagues. It is in what 
is known here as the Huasteca country, decidedly one of the finest regions of 
the whole empire. The owner, a Mexican, is most anxious for our people to 
establish themselves upon these lands, and has requested me to tell him how to 
get them there. " Give them alternate sections, with a pre-emption right to the 
rest at $2 per acre.'' " I will do it," said he, " and give the lands for roads 
and villages besides." He has now gone to reduce his offer to writing. 

The river is navigable, but the country there has been for years, and until 
recently, in a disorderly and unsafe state. 

A few months ago, however, the people there gave in their adhesion to the 
empire, and everything now is as orderly and as quiet as could be desired. 

A party of surveyors went out yesterday from the land office to survey a 
fine body of public lands in Mitlatovuca, one of the sub-districts of that region. 

We hear of immigrants who are coming from the south to the number of 
several hundred families. They should aim to arrive in this country by the 
first of Maj', if possible. They will then have an opportunity, unless they come 
by land, to shelter themselves by the time the rains commence. 
Yours, very truly, 

M. F. MAURY, 

Imperial Commissioner. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 527 

HO FOR MEXICO !— NOTICE TO IMMIGRANTS. 
THE FORNS COLONY. 

Mexico, February 9, 1866. 
The Imperial Commissioner of Colonization is hereby authorized to dispose 
of twenty-five square leagues of land (108,459 acres) of my hacienda of Limon, 
situated on Panuco river, in the department of Tamaulipas, giving gratis every 
alternate section — 640 acres — to a man with family ; 320 to an unmarried man — 
with pre-emption right in each case to as much more at two dollars per acre. 

I will give also gratis enough land for a town, as well as for a road sixteen 
yards wide traversing the entire colony from north to south. 

J. 0. FORNS. 



February 10, 1866. 

The offer of Mr. Forns is most princely; the land is situated in the Huasteca 
country, on the mountain borders of the Tierra Caliente. It is said to be healthy, 
and is admirably adapted to the cultivation of coffee, cotton, sugar, rice, tobacco, 
and the whole list of intertropical fruits and productions ; it is also a good stock 
country with an abundance of timber. The Panuco river is navigable up to it, 
and boats are running on that stream. Provisions are plenty, but labor is said 
to be not very abundant, the usual price being 37j cents a day and found. 

Those who come from any of the Gulf ports should take shipping direct to 
Tampico, taking care not to come later than the first or middle of May, on ac- 
count of the rainy season, which commences in June. Immigrants are advised 
to send out their pioneers first to make ready for their families to follow. 

The best time for planting the first corn crop is in June, after the rains have 
commenced. This is the surest of the three corn crops. November is the time 
for planting again ; cotton, corn, and tobacco may be put in the ground now and 
gathered from March onward until the rains again. 

Immigrants should not begin to arrive at Tampico before the last of March. 
Mr. Forns will then be on his hacienda to receive them and show them their 
lands. 

This is a well wooded country, and immigrants will do well to provide one or 
two good portable saw-mills for each settlement. They should also bring with 
them seed of all sorts. 

The collector of the port at Tampico is authorized to pass the effects of immi- 
grants duty free ; to issue them the certificates which secure to them all their 
rights under the decree, and to speed them on their way. 

M. F. MAURY, 

Imperial Commissioner. 



[Enclosure No. 4.] 

Office of Colonization, 13 San Juan de Letran, 

Mexico, April 10, 1S66. 

Sir : Yours of March 6th I have just received. Since the letter of mine 
which you speak of was written, the Yankees have refused to permit our trans- 
portation agents to act in the United States, and thus his majesty's intention of 
furnishing passage to needy immigrants has been frustrated. As immigrants 
are now coming faster than we want them, it is probably that this offer Mill not 
be renewed, as we can get as many colonists as we desire, without giving them 
this aid. You Avould do very well to bring your negroes with you. 



528 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

The general will sell you six hundred and forty acres at one dollar per acre. 
Mr. Forns will give you that much. 

You should not arrive between June and October, on account of the yellow- 
fever. 

Respectfully, 

RICHARD L. MAURY, 
Sub- Commissioner, late Colonel C. S. Army. 
0. G. O'Neal, 

Columbus, Georgia. 



No. 152. 
Mr. Seward to Senor Romero. 

Department of State, 

Washington, December 20, 1866. 
Sir: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your note of the 12th 
instant, containing two letters of Richard L. Maury, addressed to persons resid- 
ing in the southern States of the United States, on the subject of the contem- 
plated establishment of colonies in Mexico, for which be pleased to accept my 
thanks. 

I avail myself of this opportunity to renew to you the assurances of my most 
distinguished consideration. 

WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 
Sefior Don M. Romero, fyc, Sfc., fyc. 



No. 14. 

AFFAIRS AT BAGDAD. 

List of papers. 

153. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward, (with three enclosures) March 30, 1866. 

154. Same to same, (with one enclosure) March 30, 1S66. 

155. Same to same, (with eight enclosures) March 31, 1866. 

156. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero, (with one enclosure) April 22, 1866. 

157. Same to same, (with two enclosures) June 2, 1866. 

1 58. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward June 4, 1866. 

159. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero July 7, 1866. 

160. Same to same Aug. 8, 1866. 

161. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward Aug. 9, 1866. 



No. 153. 

SeJior Romero to Mr. Seward. 

[Translation. ] 

Mexican Legation to the United States of America, 

Washington, March 30, 1866. 
Mr. Secretary: I have the honor to enclose you the copy, in English, of a 
communication dated the 6th of February last, and sent to me from Brownsville 
by Colonel Enrique A. Mejia, of the Mexican army. The original did not reach 
me. The duplicate, marked No. 1, I enclose to you with two other annexed 
documents, numbered 2 and 3. 

In No. 1, and particularly in No. 2, a note addressed to General Weitzel, com- 
manding on the Rio Grande, Colonel Mejia states that on the 14th of that 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 529 

mouth, as be was steaming down the river on the government despatch boat 
with Captain Conklyn, first provost marshal general of the district, and Mr. 
Price, of the secret service of the same district, he overhauled several lighters 
and small boats tied up to the Mexican side of the river, about six miles above 
Boca del Rio, (Bagdad,) and within the jurisdiction of his command. Having 
boarded and examined them in fulfilment of his duty, he found the sloop Helena 
among them loaded with goods, and without any custom-house papers, or even 
an invoice, for which reason he seized it, and took it to Boca del Rio, (Bagdad,) 
where it was duly condemned and the goods confiscated. 

Colonel Mejia acted in this matter in conformity with his duty, which is 
shown by a translation of his appointment in No. 3. 

The goods were transferred to American territory and were regularly entered 
at the Clarksville custom-house to the credit of the Mexican government, but 
were soon after sequestrated by the military authorities of that place, Colonel 
Mejia states, and were to be delivered over to the original proprietors ; and he 
complains of this proceeding as the goods were legally confiscated by the Mexi- 
can authorities on Mexican territory, and this he can prove by Captain Conk- 
lyn and Mr. Price, who were witnesses to the facts. 

Having no other testimony to this affair than the enclosed documents, I limit 
myself to a request to have it referred to the proper department, that the gov- 
ernment of the United States may act upon it with due justice; and if the goods 
have been unjustly delivered to the merchants of Matamoras claiming them, 
their value may be restored to the agents of the Mexican government. 

I embrace the occasion to renew to you, Mr. Secretary, the assurances of my 
most distinguished consideration. 

M. ROMERO. 

Hon. William H. Seward, fyc, fye., fyc. 



[Enclosure No. 1. — Duplicate.] 
MEXICAN REPUBLIC — COLONEL ON SPECIAL DUTY. 

I have the honor of enclosing you a copy of the note which, under date of 
the 21st ultimo, I addressed to General Weitzel, referring to the cargo of the 
Helena. Said general has not answered, and the goods have been delivered to 
those who claimed them — the firm of Droege, Oetling & Co. Said goods were 
seized by order of General Weitzel, and remained by his order in military cus- 
tody until they were delivered to Droege, Oetling & Co. The only thing that 
I could obtain was that the collector of the custom-house should take a bond 
from said firm of ($60,000) sixty thousand dollars in gold, until the matter should 
be decided by the military authorities or the Treasury Department at Washington. 
•I cannot understand how said military authorities could take cognizance in 
matters beyond their jurisdiction, but the copy I enclose will explain the matter. 

I have thought very strangely of this proceeding, as I do not believe there is 
any justice in said detention, which causes us great damage. 

I beg you to give this matter the attention it deserves, and I avail myself of 
the opportunity to renew my respectful consideration. 

Independence and libertv! Brownsville, February 5, 1S66. 

E. A. MEJIA. 

Seiior Matias Romero, 

Envoy Extraordinary and Minister Plenipotentiary, fye., Sfc., 

Washington. 

Washington, March 30, 1S6G. 
A true copy : 

IGNO. MARISCAL, Secretary. 
34 Mex. 



530 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

[Englosure No. 2. ] 
REPUBLIC OF MEXICO — COLONEL ON SPECIAL DUTY. 

I would respectfully call your attention to the following facts : That on the 
14th of this month I was steaming down the river on the government despatch 
boat; when about sis miles above Bagdad, we saw several luggers and lighters 
tied up on the Mexican side of the river, within the jurisdiction of my command, 
which, as you will see by the accompanying certified translation of my appoint- 
ment, included not only Bagdad but its dependencies. 

I boarded and examined said lighters and found the sloop Helena had a cargo 
of merchandise, without clearance or pass of any kind, and immediately seized 
her for violating the laws of revenue of the Mexican republic. The fact of 
finding said lighter without even the regular invoice of the owners of said mer- 
chandise was conclusive evidence as to the illegality of her presence oat of port. 
I had her turned into the port of Bagdad, and appointed a commission to inquire 
into the case, and by said commission the goods were legally condemned and 
confiscated. Said merchandise was brought over to this side as belonging to 
the government I have the honor to represent, regularly entered with all neces- 
sary papers in order, and were seized by the military authorities and by them 
held. I have since been informed that the goods were going to be released on 
claim of the former owners, residents of Matamoras. 

I would respectfully represent that the facts of the case occurred beyond the 
jurisdiction of the United States ; that the seizure was in accordance to our 
laws ; and that I request that said goods be held until the action of the United 
States government can be obtained, for which purpose I remit the proper papers 
to Washington by first mail. 

I would further state that there were in the despatch boat with me Captain 
Conklyn and Mr. Price; the first, provost marshal general of the district, and 
the second, of the secret service, who saw the whole facts of the capture, and 
can testify to the facts being as represented. 

I beg your earnest attention to the above, and that said goods being seized 
in the first instance by the troops under your command, that they continue so 
to be held until the matter can be laid before your Secretary of State by our 
minister at Washington. 

I avail myself of the opportunity of repeating to you the assurances of my 
highest respect. 

Independence and liberty ! January 21, 1S66. 

E. A. ME JIA. 
Major General J. Weitzel, 

Commanding District of Rio Grande, Brownsville. 

Washington, March 30, 1866. 
A true copy : 

IGNO. MARISCAL, Secretary. 



[Enclosure No. 3.] 
REPUBLIC OF MEXICO — ARMY CORPS OF THE NORTH — GENERAL-IN-CHIEF. 

^ Being compelled to march to the centre of the line for urgent matters of ser- 
vice, I have deemed it best to appoint you military commandant of this port 
and its dependencies, and this in a vigorous state of siege, with ample powers 
for its defence, in all matters including those of finances. You will increase 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 531 

your forces by all possible means, acting in everything with fullest powers (omni- 
modas) and subject only to my instructions and orders. 
Independence and liberty! Bagdad, January 8, 1866. 

r M. ESCOBEDO. 

Colonel Enrique A. Mejia, 

Military Commandant of Bagdad and its Dependencies. 

Washington, March 30, 1866. 

A true copy : 

INGO. MARIS CAL, Secretary. 



No. 154. 

Senor Romero to Mr. Seward. 
[Translation.] 

Mexican Legation to the United States of America, 

Washington, March 30, 1S66. 

Mr. Secretary : Colonel Enrique A. Mejia, of the Mexican army, has writ- 
ten me from Galveston, Texas, as you will see from the copy of his communica- 
tion which I have the honor to enclose to you, that, in the name of General 
Mariano Escobedo, chief of the array of the north, he requested a return of the 
arms, munitions, and artillery taken from the interventionists at Boca del Rio, 
(Bagdad,) and carried into United States territory by Colonel Aclolfo de la 
Garza, where they were seized by the United States military authorities. 

Colonel Mejia first applied to Colonel Brown, commander of the Rio Grande 
district, and learning that his orders Avere from General Wright, commander of 
the department of Texas, he went to Galveston to see that general, who told 
him that General Sheridan had ordered him to deliver the arms, munitions, and 
artillery in question to Tomas Mejia, chief of the interventionists, in Matamoras, 
which -he had commanded to be done. 

As I am ignorant of the motives for those orders, and cannot comprehend the 
reason for delivering munitions of war, taken by United States authorities from 
a republican general and his forces who had sought refuge in their territory, to an 
enemy of Mexico, I respectfully request your excellency to procure for me the 
information of the reasons of the order from the proper department, that I may 
make a proper communication for the interests of my government. 

I embrace this opportunity to renew to you, Mr. Secretary, the assurances of 
my most distinguished consideration. 



M. ROMERO. 



Hon. William H. Seward, Sfc, Sfc, fyc. 



[Enclosure No. 1.] 
MEXICAN REPUBLIC — COLONEL IN SERVICE. 

As I informed you in my note of the 1st instant, when I requested Colonel 
Brown, commander of the Rio Grande district, to give me the arms, munitions, 
and artillery brought from Bagdad by Colonel Garza, he told me he had orders 
from General Wright, commander of the department of Texas, to give up 
nothing without his order. 

Colonel Brown advised me to go to Galveston and see General Wright in 
person, as the best way to settle all the difficulties. 



532 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

I went to Galveston, where General Wright informed me verbally that he 
had received orders from General Sheridan to deliver the arms, munitions, and 
artillery taken from Bagdad by our forces to General Tomas Mejia, chief of the 
traitors in Matamoras, and that the orders had been transmitted before my ar- 
rival in Galveston. 

I was astonished at the proceeding, and, believing all protests useless, I de- 
termined to start for Washington in a few days to give you the particulars of 
the affair, as they are too numerous for the limits of a despatch. 
Accept the assurances of my respectful consideration. 
Independence and liberty ! Galveston, March 6, 1866. 

ENRIQUE A. MEJIA. 
Citizen Matias Romero, 

Envoy Extraordinary and Minister Plenipotentiary 

of the Mexican Republic in Washington. 

Washington, March 30, 1866. 
A true copy : 

IGNO. MARISCAL, Secretary. 



No. 155. 

Senor Romero to Mr. Seward. 

[Translation.] 

Mexican Legation to the United States of America, 

Washington, March 31, 1866. 

Mr. Secretary : I have the honor to enclose to you the copy in English of 
a communication addressed to me by Colonel Enrique A. Mejia, of the Mexican 
army, dated the 4th of February last, with annexed documents numbered from 
two to six, and two others in Spanish, numbered seven and eight — sent to me 
subsequently by the same colonel, all relating to certain merchandise confiscated 
at Boca del Rio, (Bagdad,) by order of General Mariano Escobedo, because it 
appeared, by testimony of the person who had charge of them, that they be- 
longed to the pretended govei-nment of the interventionists. 

Hoping that the proceedings in this matter will be conducted with that 
justice which may be expected from the government of the United States, I 
enclose you these documents, requesting you to refer them to the proper de- 
partment, that the affair may be considered with a full knowledge of the facts. 

I avail myself of this opportunity to renew to you, Mr. Secretary, the assu- 
rance of my most distinguished consideration. 

M. ROMERO. 

Hon. William H. Seward, fyc, Sfc, tyc. 



[Enclosure No. 1.] 
REPUBLIC OF MEXICO — COLONEL ON OFFICIAL DUTY. 

I enclose you copies of the correspondence which passed between the under- 
signed and the American authorities, referring to the goods confiscated by Gen- 
eral Escobedo during his occupancy of Bagdad. By them you will perceive 
that disregarding their want of jurisdiction in the matter, they detain said goods, 
and even recommend they be returned to those who claim them. Said goods 
were the property of the traitors, and General Escobedo, on confiscating them, 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 533 

only fulfilled his duty. I entered them by order of General Escobedo, in the 
custom-house of Clarksville, and gave bond for twice the amount of their value. 
I hope that you will deem it proper, as they are national property, to take the 
necessary steps, so that said articles may be returned to us. I offer you the 
assurance of my respectful consideration. 

Independence and liberty ! February 4, 1866. 

E. A. MEJIA. 
Senor Don Matias Romero, 

Envoy Extraordinary and Minister Plenipotentiary 

of the Mexican republic at Washington City, D. G. 

Washington, March 31, 1866. 
A true copy : 

IGNO. MARISOAL, Secretary. 



[Enclosure No. 2.] 
REPUBLIC OF MEXICO — COLONEL ON SPECIAL DUTY. 

In answer to the query of January 23, respecting certain goods claimed hj 
Elosequi and Mayoral, of Matamoras, I beg to inform you that the general-in- 
chief of the army corps of the north seized a certain amount of goods as property 
of the enemy, and also because the regular tax on said parties was not paid as 
assessed, and directed me to cross them over to Clarksville and dispose of them 
as I thought best. I enclose list of the articles seized, which were shipped to 
Mr. A. A. McLeffey, subject to the order of the undersigned. Any other goods 
not enumerated in the accompanying list have been fraudulently obtained, and I 
shall be glad if they be returned to the proper owners. 

Independence and liberty! February 24, 1866. 

E. A. MEJIA. 

Major General Weitzel, 

Commanding District of Rio Grande. 

Washington, March 31, 1866. 
A true copy : 

IGNO. MARISOAL, Secretary. 



[Enclosure No. 3. ] 
REPUBLIC OF MEXICO — COLONEL ON SPECIAL DUTY. 

List of articles seized by order of General Mariano Escobedo. 

504 pounds of thread, 20 gross knives and forks, 1,200 yards hickory stripe, 
15 reams paper, 6 dozen umbrellas, (ladies',) 6 packages tin, 5 dozen axes, 14 
boxes claret, 31 boxes tea, damaged. 

Independence and liberty ! January 24, 1S66. 

E. A. MEJIA. 

Washington, March 31, 1866. 
A true copy : 

IGNO. MARISOAL, Secretary. 



534 CONDITION JOF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 



[Enclosure No. 4. ] 

Headquarters District of the Rio Grande, 

Office of the Provost Marshal General, 

Brownsville, Texas, January 24, 1866. 
Sir : I have the honor to enclose herewith the application of Elosequi and 
Mayoral, marked exhibit A, for the return of certain merchandise supposed to 
be at Clarksville and Brazos de Santiago. 

I also enclose the official statement of Colonel E. A. Mejia, marked exhibit 
B, showing what portion of those goods were confiscated by the liberal govern- 
ment. 

The major general commanding directs that the merchandise contained in 
exhibit A, and not included in exhibit B, beat once returned to the proper owners 
thereof, and that the merchandise called for in exhibit B be stored in some con- 
venient place and safely guarded, to abide instructions from department head- 
quarters. 

Should any of these goods have been removed from Clarksville, you will im- 
mediately furnish the commanding officer where they may be deposited with 
these instructions, in order that they may be carried out strictly. 

All acts done pursuant to these instructions will be reported to this office 
without delay. 

I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

JOHN S. CONKLYN, 
Capt.' and Act. Prov. Marshal General, District of the Rio Grande. 

March 31, 1866. 
A true copy : 

IGNO. MARISCAL, Secretary. 



[Enclosure No. 5.] 
Exhibit A. 

Bagdad, Mexico, January 20, 1866. 

During the recent troubles arising from the capture of this city, certain un- 
known parties have forcibly entered our warehouse and taken away the follow- 
ing articles, viz : 

P. II. Thirty-three (33) chests of tea. 

Y. D. Ninety (90) boxes of claret. 

F. & C. Twelve (12) boxes of claret. 

[SS.] One (1) case of claret. 

(5.) One (1) case of claret. 

L. D. Two (2) cases of paper. 

L. D. One (1) case knives and forks. 

L. D. One (1) case umbrellas. 

L. D. Twenty-four (24) boxes of axes. 

L. D. Twenty-five (25) boxes tin cases. 

We have ascertained that the tea and part of the other merchandise above 
mentioned lie presently at Clarksville, and some at the custom-house landing, 
and some deposited at Mr. McGoffey, the sutler general. There also lie pres- 
ently at Clarksville one or two lighters, namely, the schooner Matamoras and 
lugger Rio, which have been forcibly taken away from our own landing here. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 535 

We therefore respectfully request that the case he investigated, and some 
arrangement made by which said property be returned to us. Hoping to be 
soon favored with an answer, we remain, colonel, 
Your obedient servants, 

ELOSEQUI & MAYORAL, 
By JOHN FALLS. 

Colonel Frank J. White, 

Commanding U. S. Forces at Bagdad. 

Washington, March 31, 1866. 
A true copy : 

EGNO. MARISCAL, Secretary. 



[Enclosure No. 6.] 

Headquarters Department of Texas, 

Brownsville, January 22, 1866. 

Colonel : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communica- 
tion of this date, in reference to a quantity of goods held in military custody, 
under orders from Major General Weitzel, but which are claimed by you as be- 
longing to the Mexican government, of which you are the agent. 

It appears from other papers in the case that the goods are claimed by other 
parties as their lawful property, who have asked that they be held until the 
question of title can be decided, and this question is one to which the United 
States is not a party. The military authorities are not empowered to act. 
Your remedy, therefore, must be found in the civil courts, or the action of the 
authorities at Washington, to the latter of which your communication and such 
other papers as I have in relation to the subject will be promptly referred. 
Very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

H. E. WRIGHT, 
Major General Commanding. 

Washington, March 31, 1866. 
IGNO. MARISCAL, Secretary. 



Colonel Enriq.uk A. Mejia, 

Brovmsville, Texas. 



A true copy 



[Enclosure No. 7. ~[ 

To the military commander of Bagdad and its dependencies : 
Please let me know if you authorized any one to take private property in my 

name. 

Independence and liberty ! Bagdad, January 16, 1866. 

ENRIQUE A. MEJIA. 
Lieut. Col. Eduardo Du May. 

Washington, March 31, 1S66. 
A true copy : 

IGNO. MARISCAL, Secretary. 



536 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

[Enclosure No. 8. ] 

Bagdad, January 16, 1866. 

Colonel : I have the honor to acknowledge your communication of to-day, 
and in reply I must say, that while I acted as commander of this place, General 
Escobedo ordered me to visit the various mercantile establishments and collect 
a forced loan for the aid of the forces stationed here. 

In obedience to this order, I visited various establishments of this city, and 
among others that of Mr. Mayoral, whom I did not see, but I met a French 
lady who said she was the wife of the manager of the establishment, and I 
communicated my order to her. She answered that as Mr. Mayoral was not 
present, she could do nothing in regard to the loan ; but there were some goods 
in the store, belonging to the so-called imperial government, (and she pointed 
them out,) which I could take. I made this known to General Escobedo, and he 
ordered me to confiscate the goods, put them on board a sloop, and send them 
across the river. I communicated the order to one of my adjutants, who went 
to the store, seized the goods, and put them aboard a schooner lying at the 
landing and left them there till further orders. The next day the vessel was 
taken to the other side of the river. 

And this is all I know of the affair. 

I renew the protests of my respectful consideration. 

EDUARDO DU MAY. 

Colonel Mejia, 

Military Commander of Bagdad and its dependencies. 

Washington, March 31, 1866. 
A true copy : 

IGNO. MARISCAL, Secretary. 



No. 156. 

Mr. Seward to SeTior Ro?nero. 

Department of State, 

Washington, April 22, 1866. 

Sir : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your three notes, two 
of which are dated on the 30th and one on the 31st ultimo, referring to the 
seizure of certain arms and munitions of war and to the sequestration of certain 
merchandise, said to belong to the liberal government of Mexico, by right of 
capture and confiscation. 

In reply, I have the honor to inform you that, in compliance with your 
request, translations of the aforesaid notes and the enclosures accompanying 
them have been referred to the Secretary of War, a copy of whose answer I 
have the honor to transmit to you. 

So soon as the reports of Generals Sheridan and Weitzel are received at this 
department, copies of them will be communicated to you. 

£ avail myself of this occasion to renew to you, sir, the assurances of my 
most distinguished consideration. 

WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 

Sefior Matias Romero, fyc, fyc, 8fc, Washington, D. C. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 537 

[Enclosure."! 

War Department, 
Washington City, April 19, 1866. 

Sir : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt from the State Depart- 
ment of the following papers : 

1st. Communication of the 18th instant, with Senor Romero's note, respecting 
merchandize said to belong to the liberal government of Mexico, and now held 
by the United States military authorities, subject to the decision of the War 
Department. 

2d. Communication of the 18th instant, with Senor Romero's note respecting 
the sequestration by the United States military authorities at Clarksville of 
certain goods said belong to the Mexican liberal government. 

3d. Communication of the 18th instant, with Senor Romero's note respect- 
ing the seizure of certain arm, &c , from liberal forces of Mexico, and their 
surrender to the commander of the imperial forces in Matamoras,and to acquaint 
you that they have been referred to Generals Sheridan and Weitzel for investi- 
gation and report. Agreeably to your request, on the receipt of the latter, they 
will be communicated to you. 

Very respectfully, sir, your obedient servant, 

EDWIN M. STANTON, 



Hon. W. H. Seward, 

Secretary of State. 



Secretary of War. 



No. 157. 
Mr. Seward to Senor Rofnero. 

Department of State, 

Washington, June 2, 1866. 
Sir : Referring to my communication to you of the 22d of April last, I have 
now the honor to enclose herewith a copy of a letter of the 30th ultimo received 
from the War Department, and of the report of General Weitzel, which accom- 
panies it. 

I have the honor to be, with high consideration, your obedient servant, 

WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 
Senor Don Matias Romero, &., §c, 8fc. 



[Enclosure No. L] 

War Department, 
Washington City, May 30, 1S66. 

Sir : I am directed by the Secretary of War to herewith transmit, agreeably 
to the request made in your communication of the 18th ultimo, a copy of the 
report of General Weitzel with reference to the sequestration at Clarksville, 
Texas, of certain goods claimed by the Mexican liberal government by the right 
of seizure and confiscation. 

I have the honor to be, sir, your obedient servant, 

THOS. T. ECKERT, 
Acting Assistant Secretary of War. 
Hon. William H. Seward, 

Secretary of State. 



538 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

[Enclosure No. 2.] 

Cincinnati, May 9, 1S66. 

Sir: In answer to the letter of the 25th ultimo from your office I bave the 
honor to report on the subject referred to in the enclosed papers as follows : 

Immediately after the capture of Bagdad, in January, plundering began. 
The goods thus plundered were immediately brought over to Olarksville, on the 
Texas side, and the revenue officers, notwithstanding the greatest exertions, could 
not protect the revenue. The collector of the district immediately called upon 
me for assistance, which was granted at once. Colonel Mejia, who was in com- 
mand at Bagdad, informed me several clays afterwards that plundering still con- 
tinued, and the goods smuggled across to our side, and at his suggestion all goods 
that came across were held, to give their owners a chance to reclaim them through 
the civil authorities of Texas. While this arrangement was in force the lighter 
load of goods referred to was brought over to Clarksville, and was at once claimed 
by the owners, (citizens of Prussia.) The goods were attached as stolen prop- 
erty by the sheriff of Cameron county, and the case tried. Colonel Mejia had 
counsel. The State laws of Texas grant the courts of Texas power to try such 
cases, and seem to have been specially made for cases of this kind, and to pro- 
tect the inhabitants of Mexico. I was relieved before the case was decided, I 
believe. The military acted in this matter as an ally or support to the revenue 
officers. It did not sequester the goods. My only desire was to keep clear of 
the whole thing. I sincerely believe that no wrong was done to the Mexican 
liberal government, as all honest people, who know the case, will testify. The 
revenue laws of Mexico do not require a lighter to have papers or a clearance 
from Bagdad, because all vessels which sail from the Rio Grande are loaded by 
means of lighters. The goods on the lighter Helena were represented to be in 
transitu to Vera Cruz, and I firmly believe they were. They were moved up 
the river, I was told, to escape the shells of the French man-of-war. Mr. Charles 
Worthington, collector of the Rio Grande district, can probably more fully ex- 
plain this matter and the action thereon. I know he tried only to do his duty 
in this matter. 

I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

G. WEITZEL, 
Captain of Engineers anal Brevet Brig. Gen, U. S. A. 

Brevet Major General L. Thomas, 

Adjutant General U. S. A., Washington City, D. C. 



No. 158. 

Sefior Romero to Mr. Seward. 

[Translation.] 

Mexican Legation in the United States of America, 

Washington, June 4, L866. 

Mr. Secretary : I have had the honor to day of receiving your note of 
day before yesterday, enclosing the copy of a communication of the 30th ultimo 
from the War Department to you, with a copy of General Weitzel's report in 
relation to certain goods taken by Mexican forces at the mouth of the Rio Bravo, 
and confiscated in Olarksville, State of Texas, to which subject I alluded in my 
three notes of the 30th and 31st of March last to your department. 

I send a copy to-day, with a translation of your note and the accompanying 
documents, to the Mexican government, that in view of them it may determine 
what is most convenient. Yet, as . I would like to have further information of 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 539 

what occurred in this case, I think it well to accept the suggestion made hy 
General Weitzel in his report, to ask a report of the facts of the case of 
Mr. Charles Worthington, collector of customs at Brownsville, who was eye- 
witness to the occurrences. This will be the more easy to obtain, as I learn 
that Mr. Worthington is now in Georgetown, District of Columbia. 

From the slight knowledge that General Weitzel seems to have of the facts, 
the information of persons better acquainted with them seems desirable. 

I embrace the occasion to renew to you, Mr. Secretary, the assurances of my 
most distinguished consideration. 

M. ROMERO. 

Hon. William H. Seward, fyc, fyc, fyc. 



No. 159. 

Mr. Seward to Sefior Romero. 

Department of State, 

Washington, July 7, 1866. 
Sir : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of 
the 4th ultimo, in which you express a desire for additional information on the 
subject of the goods taken by the Mexican forces at the mouth of the Rio Bravo 
and confiscated at Clarksville, Texas, and to inform you that the information 
has been applied for and will be transmitted to you as soon as received. 

I avail myself of this opportunity to renew to you the assurances of my 
most distinguished consideration. 

WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 
Sefior Don Matias Romero, Sfc, fyc, fyc. 



No. 160. 

Mr. Seward to Senor Romero. 

Department of State, 

Washington, August 8, 1866. 

Sir : Referring to your communication of the 30th of March last, in which 
you transmit, for the information of the department, a letter received by you 
from Colonel Enrique A. Mejia, requesting in the name of General Escobedo, 
commanding the army of the north, a return of certain arms, munitions and 
artillery alleged to belong to the republican government of Mexico, taken into 
the possession of the military authorities of the United States, and to your re- 
quest to have the matter investigated, and to your communication of the same 
date, desiring a similar investigation of the alleged taking by the military 
authorities of the United States of certain goods said to belong to the republic 
of Mexico, I have the honor to communicate to you the fact as gathered from 
official reports of the commanding officer of the department of the Gulf to the 
War Department, and the conclusions to which this department has arrived 
after a due examination of the same. 

The capture of Bagdad, far from being a legitimate operation of a belligerent 
power, or in the interest of a belligerent power, is stated to have been simply a 
buccaneering scheme, set on foot by four designing persons at Clarksville, Texas, 
taking to their aid some colored soldiers of the United States service, without 
either the permission or sanction of the officers of their command. The sole 
object of the expedition seems to have been the pillaging of the town, as was 



540 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

evinced by the action of the parties conducting it. Immediately after the cap- 
ture, the plunder was transferred to the Texas side of the river, the town re- 
maining in charge of one Crawford, without, as it is reported, any troops under 
his command. The arras, munitions, and artillery captured in this expedition 
becoming unsafe in the absence of any troops to hold the town, they were 
transferred to the Texas side of the river and the town was abandoned. There- 
upon they were taken by the military authorities of the United States and sub- 
sequently restored to the original owners. 

As regards the goods which you state to have been sequestrated by the mili- 
tary authorities of Clarksville, your informants seem to have been in error as to 
the true nature of the affair. The goods were seized by the custom-house of- 
ficers of Clarksville, for a violation of the revenue laws. The title to them 
was litigated in a civil court between the original owners, Messrs. Droege, Oet- 
ling & Co., and the officers of the Mexican republic who brought them into 
port, and they were adjudged to the former. Under these circumstances the 
executive government of the United- States could not change the decision of 
one of the legally constituted courts of the country, but must refer any further 
claim to the goods to the proper course of justice, which, in this case, would be 
an appeal from the judgment of the court. 

I avail myself of this opportunity to reiterate to you my expressions of the 
most distinguished consideration. 

WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 

Senor Don M. Romero, fyc, fyc, Sfc. 



No. 161. 

SeTior Romero to Mr. Seward. 

[Translation. ] 

Mexican Legation in the United States of America, 

Washington, August 9, 1866. 
Mr. Secretary : I have the honor to acknowledge the reception of the 
note you were pleased to address to me yesterday in regard to the capture of 
certain goods coming from Mexico by United States employes in Clarksville, to 
which I referred in my notes of the 30th and 31st of May and 4th of June last. 
As I have already submitted the determination of this affair to my govern- 
ment, it only remains for me to transmit your note to the department of foreign 
relations of the Mexican republic, which I will do by this week's mail. 

I am pleased to embrace the occasion of renewing to you, Mr. Secretary, the 
assurances of my most distinguished consideration. 

M. ROMERO. 
Hon. William H. Seward, 8fc., fyc, Sfc. 



Wo. 15. 

FOECED LOANS AT MATAMORAS. 



List of papers. 

162. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero, (with two enclosures,) October 20, 1866' 

163. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward .October 22, 1866. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 541 

No. 162. 

Mr. Setoard to Senor Romero. 

Department of State, 

Washington, October 20, 1866. 

Sir : I have the honor to enclose a copy of a letter of the 14tli ultimo, re- 
ceived at this department from the Secretary of War, transmitting a letter dated 
at New Orleans on the 24th of August, 1866, from Mr. James B. Gauche, a 
citizen of the United States, to Major General Sheridan, complaining of the 
exaction from him, by the liberal authorities of Matamoras, of forced loans to the 
amount of $1,900, and to beg of you to call the attention of your government 
to the matters complained of. 

I avail myself of this opportunity to renew to you the assurances of my most 
distinguished consideration. 

WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 

Senor Don M. Romero, Sfc, fyc, fyc. 



[Enclosure No. 1.] 

War Department, 

Washington City, September 14, 1866. 

Sir : I have the honor to transmit herewith a communication of August 24, 
1866, to Major General Sheridan, commanding department of the Gulf, from 
John B. Gauche, a citizen of the United St ites, complaining that he has been 
compelled to subscribe to the imperial forced loan in Matamoras, Mexico, and 
applying for redress. 

You will please indicate to this department any action which you think 
proper to be taken by the military authorities. 

I am, sir, very respectfully, your ob edient servant, 

EDWIN M. STANTON, 

Seretary of War. 
Hon. William H. Seward, 

Secretary of State. 



[Enclosure No. 2.1 

New Orleans, August 24, 1866. 

General: The undersigned begs leave to bring to your notice, and through 
you to that of the government at Washington, the following facts : 

I am a native of the United States, and have resided and carried on business 
as a merchant in Matamoras, in the republic of Mexico, for the last three years. 
During that time I have constantly been known as a loyal citizen of the United 
States, for which the former American consul, Mr. Pierce, (now at Brownsville,) 
and the present one, Mr. Avery, will vouch. 

During the present civil war in Mexico, Matamoras has been alternately in 
possession of the different contending parties ; and at every change of masters a 
forced loan was imposed by the commander for the time upon the cemmerce of 
the place, aliens as well as natives. Fo'r these forced loans orders were given 
upon the custom-house payable in duties, which were only good so long as the 
party issuing the order remained in power, for their successors invariably re- 
pudiated them. In the case of the siibscriber General Cortina compelled him 
to loan him (Cortina) five hundred dollars, for which the subscriber received an 
order upon the custom-house. General Mejia next took the city and drove out 



542 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

Cortina. The subscriber presented Cortina's order in payment of duties, but 
was told it was good for nothing. 

Then General Mejia imposed upon the undersigned a forced loan of two thou- 
sand dollars. One thousand of this the subscriber got rid of at a discount of 
twenty per cent., and of the other thousand he is a loser. 

Next to Mejia came General Carvajal, who called upon the undersigned for 
fifteen hundred dollars ; but application having been made to General Getty, 
commanding the American forces in Brownsville, through the intercession of 
that officer the peremptory requisition of Carvajal was changed into a request 
that the undersigned would give whatever he pleased. Fearful of the annoy- 
ances which would have been the consequence of a refusal, the undersigned gave 
General Carvajal two hundred dollars. 

General Carvajal has very lately been [expected] by one of his officers 
named Canales, who is for the moment in possession ; but there are three other 
officers, Hinojose, Cortinas, and Negrete, around Matamoras, all seeking to get 
in, and whichever of the four succeeds in holding possession, we, the merchants, 
are sure to be assessed for a forced loan. 

It is hoped that when the attention of our government is awakened to the 
true state of things, a stop will be put to these robberies of our citizens by the 
banditti who wear the Mexican uniform. For my part I am the loser already, 
as above stated, of nineteen hundred dollars, and have the best reason to ap- 
prehend that I will be still further plundered. It is the established and invet- 
erate system of governments in Mexico, a system disgraceful to civilization as 
that which formerly prevailed in the Mediterranean under the piratical rule of 
the Dey of Algiers. 

The undersigned believes that it can be only corrected by an energetic dis- 
play of power on the part of our government. 

All of which is most respectfully submitted by, general, your very obedient 
servant, 

JOHN B. GAUCHE. 

Major General Sheridan, 

Commanding the Department of the Gulf. 



No. 163. 

Scnor Romero to Mr. Seward. 

[Translation.] 

Mexican Legation in the United States of America, 

Washington, October 22, 1866. 

Mr. Secretary : I was honored to-day with your note of the 20th instant, 
enclosing a communication from the Secretary of War, dated 14th of September 
last, and a letter from John B. Gauche, a citizen of the United States, addressed 
to General Sheridan, the 1 4th of August, complaining that the authorities of 
Matamoras had forced him to pay nineteen hundred dollars. 

You requested me, in transmitting to me these papers, to call the attention of 
my government to the affair. In reply, I have to inform you that I will forward 
a copy and translation of your note, with documents, to the minister of foreign 
affairs of the Mexican republic, in Chihuahua, by the next mail. 

I beg of you, however, to permit me to say in regard to this subject that, from 
Mr. Gauche's own account, most of the money he lost, that is, one thousand 
dollars, was extorted from him, and never repaid, by Thomas Mejia, who then 
held Matamoras in the name of the order of things that the French have been 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 543 

endeavoring to establish in Mexico, and that the national government, "which the 
French have been trying to overthrow, in a war without quarter, is not respon- 
sible*^- acts of its enemies invading the territory and attempting to establish 
illegal authorities. 

I rutist also say that Mejia's refusal to return Mr. Gauche the five hundred 
dollars taken from him by Cortina cannot be charged to the Mexican govern- 
ment, for the reasons above stated. 

I have no doubt, bowever, the Mexican government will do all it can to do 
full justice to Mr. Gauche and other citizens of the United States, who feel 
themselves aggrieved by acts which are the unavoidable consequences of a war 
like that now desolating my native land. 

I take the occasion to repeat to you, Mr. Secretary, the assurances of my most 
distinguished consideration. 

M. ROMERO. 

Hon. William H. Seward, fyc., Sfc , Sfc 



]\o. 16. 

OCCUPATION OF MEXICAN TERRITORY BY UNITED STATES TROOPS. 

List of 2?apers. 

164. Major General Sheridan to General Grant .November 27, 1866. 

165. Mr. Stanton to Major General Sheridan November 30, 1S66. 

166. Major General Sheridan to General Grant November 30, 1S66. 

167. Same to same December 1, 1S66. 

168. Major General Sheridan to General Grant December 10, 1866. 

169. Same to same December 11, 1866. 

170. Major General Sheridan to Brevet Major General 

Rawlins December 11, 1S66. 

171. Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward December 13, 1866. 

172. Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero December 17, 1S66. 



No. 164. 



Major General Sheridan to General Grant k 

Office U. S. Military Telegraph, War Department, 

Washington, D. G, November 27, 1S66. 

[Received 4.30 p. m.] 

New Orleans, November 27, 1S66. 
General U. S. Grant, Commanding Army: 

I am just in receipt of news from Brownsville, and fear that General Sedg- 
wick, commanding the sub-district of the Rio Grande, will, for some unaccount- 
able and unjustifiable reason, demand of Canales the surrender of tbe town ot 
Matamoras, on the plea of preventing the pillage of houses of Americans, &c. 
The situation there is this: General Escobedo is in front of the city witli about 
three thousand five hundred (3,500) men, and Canales offered to surrender if the 
liberal government would pay the merchants who have been supporting him 
in his illegal and infamous acts. This Escobedo would not agree to. I very 



544 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

much fear that these very merchants have in some way gotten around Sedg- 
wick, who is, I fear, not a strong man, and have prompted him to this action 
which he contemplates. I have heretofore notified you that these very«mer- 
chants were at the bottom of all the troubles over there. There is perfect 
harmony between Sedgwick and General Escobedo, and no objections are 
made to the contemplated act of General Sedgwick. Should General Sedg- 
wick act as I have some reason to expect, I will at once disapprove of his 
action and relieve him from his command. I have telegraphed to General 
Sedgwick disapproving his contemplated act, or any action he may have taken 
in view of it. 

I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

P. H. SHERIDAN, 

Major General U. S. A. 

Official : GEO. K. LEET, A. A. G. 



No. 165. 

Mr. Stanton to Major General Sheridan. 

War Department, 
Washington City, November 30, 1866 — 4 p. m. 
Your telegram of the 27th instant to General Grant in relation to the con- 
templated action of General Sedgwick in crossing the Rio Grande has been sub- 
mitted to the President and your action in relation to General Sedgwick is ap- 
proved, and General Sedgwick's proposed action disapproved. If he shall have 
crossed the Rio Grande you will relieve him and place him in arrest, to await 
the further order of the President concerning him. 

EDWIN M. STANTON, 



Major Gen. P. H. Sheridan, 

New Orleans, Louisiana. 



Secretary of War. 



No. 166. 



Major General Sheridan to General Grant. 

Headquarters Department of the Gulf, 

New Orleans, Louisiana, November 30, 1866. 

My Dear General : The report in the newspapers that General Sedgwick 
had crossed the Rio Grande is premature. He certainly had not crossed or 
demanded the surrender of the town on the 23d instant, and I hope he has not 
made this blunder. 

There is no doubt in my mind but that General Sedgwick has had some in- 
fluence brought to bear on him. 

Sedgwick went over to Matamoras and took breakfast with the merchants on 
the morning he wrote the letter which I enclosed to you. There is something 
wrong about this transaction.- 

Escobedo was about to take the place by assault and was able to do it, when 
Sedgwick apparently adopted his course to prevent it and save the merchants. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 545 

The whole affair, should it take place, will not complicate things, and my 
disapproval of it must have reached Brownsville yesterday, 29th instant. 
I am, general, very respectfully, 

P. H. SHERIDAN, 

Major General U. S. A. 
Gen. U. S. Grant, 

Commanding Annies United States, Washington, D. C. 

Official : 

GEO. K. LEET, 
Assistant Adjutant General. 



No. 167. 



Major General Sheridan to General Grant. 

Headquarters Department of the Gulf, 

New Orleans, December 1, 1866 — 10 a. m. 
General : I have an opportunity to go over to the Rio Grande, this evening,, 
and by going I think I can settle the Ortega affair, also the Sedgwick trouble, if 
any has occurred, and put things on a good footing, but I would like to have 
your approval of my absence. Affairs are in good condition here, and General 
.Forsyth communicates to me from Texas frontier, no Indian troubles. 

P. H. SHERIDAN, 

Major General. 
General U. S. Grant. 
Official : GEO. K. LEET, 

Assistant Adjutant General. 



No. 16S. 



Major General Sheridan to General Grant. 

New Orleans, Louisiana, December 10, 1866. 
General : I have the honor to notify you of my return from the Rio Grande 
frontier. I have the honor to report affairs there in very good condition. On 
the 28th of November General Sedgwick demanded and obtained the surrender 
of the city of Matamoras from General Canales, occupying it with about one 
hundred men. On the 30th he received my orders disapproving his action, and 
withdrew his men to our side of the river. The object of the occupation was 
for the alleged purpose of protecting American citizens, but the real facts are 
that he was made the cat's-paw of shrewd merchants of Matamoras, who wanted 
to secure the liabilities which were due to them from Canales before he was 
obliged to give up the city to the liberal forces. General Sedgwick's action was 
without authority and in violation of written instructions as to the manner in 
which the grievances of Amercian citizens in Matamoras should be redressed. 
I have relieved him from his command, in obedience to orders from the Secre- 
tary of War, and placed him in arrest, subject to further orders from the Presi- 
dent. Matamoras passed into the hands of Escobedo on the 30th of November, 
and a better condition of affairs now exists on the Rio Grande frontier than has 
for the last eighteen months. A detailed report will be forwarded by to-morrow's 
mail. 

P. H. SHERIDAN. 

Major General. 
General U. S. Grant, Washington. 
Official: GEO. K. LEET, 

Assistant Adjutant General 
35 Mex. 



546 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

No. 169. 
Major General Sheridan to General Grant. 

New Orleans, December 11, 1866—1 p. m. 
General: I telegraphed you last evening of the good condition of affairs 
on the Rio Grande. The act of General Sedgwick gave rise to no complications ; 
in fact, General Escobedo called on me to ask me 'not to hold him responsible 
for it. The Canales faction having been submerged, I was enabled to release 
General Ortega, upon Escobedo promising that he would look out for him. There 
is not a city or State in Mexico which takes issue against Juarez's government. 
On my return I met General Sherman at Brazos Santiago. He had just come 
from Vera Cruz, and was en route with Mr. Campbell for Matamoras. 

P. H. SHERIDAN, 

Major General, 8fc. 
General U. S. Grant. 

• Official : GEO. K. LEET, 

Assistant Adjutant General. 



No. 170. 



Major General Sheridan to Brevet Major General Rawlins. 

Headquarters Department of the Gulf, 

New Orleans, La., December 11, 1S66. 

General: I have the honor to make the following report of my recent trip 
to the Eio Grande frontier: I arrived at Brownsville at 4 o'clock on the morn- 
ing of the 6th instant, and found that, on the 24th of November, General Sedg- 
wick, commanding the sub-district of the Rio Grande, had demanded and 
received the surrender of the city of Matamoras from Canales, who arbitrarily 
held possesion of the city against the legitimate authority of his government. 
That, on the 30th ultimo, the few United States troops (about fifty) holding 
the city had been withdrawn, in obedience to instructions sent by me disapproving 
the act of occupation or any action arising from it. 

The motives which influenced Brevet Brigadier General Sedgwick in this act 
are unknown to me, but the alleged one of protecting American citizens and 
their property was in violation of a decision made by the honorable Secretary 
of State on this subject, which decision is on file in his office. 

The case presents itself to my miud in this way : After the surrender of 
Matamoras to General Carvajal, the merchants of Matamoras — most of them 
foreigc-born, and some claiming American citizenship, but ultra Maximilian ad- 
herents and blockade runners during the rebellion — induced Canales (a noted 
character) to pronounce against the authority of the liberal government. They 
had two objects in this : first, to help the imperial cause by creating as much 
dissension as possible among the liberal leaders ; second, that they might pass 
out goods from the city free of duty, or nearly so. This worked well for them, 
and goods said to amount to a large sum of money were so moved out. 

This condition of affairs continued until General Escobedo, in command of the 
liberal forces, advanced troops against Matamoras for its recapture. Pending 
this event Ortega was sent for, and, as Canales was a usurper, it was necessary 
to support him by a more noted character like Ortega ; but Ortega having been 
arrested at Brazos Santiago, and Escobedo having laid siege to the city, these 
merchants were obliged to change their plans. They then proposed that Ca- 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 547 

nales should surrender the city to Escobedo, if Escobedo would agree to pay 
them the money given, or said to have been given, to Canales, the amount being 
some six hundred thousand dollars, (8600,000.) This Escobedo refused, and 
fearing that they would lose their claim, and perhaps their property, if the city 
was taken, they brought their influence to bear on Brevet Brigadier General 
Sedgwick, and made him their "cat's-paw" to protect their interests. This is 
the point of the whole affair. 

The occupation of the city was a mere matter of form, and had the consent of 
General Escobedo, who made no objections, and since the city passed into his 
hands has called on General Sedgwick in the most friendly manner, and asked 
me to forgive his action. 

There is little doubt but that this unauthorized and harmless intervention does 
much to reconcile and bring about the very good condition of affairs that ex- 
isted in Matamoras when I left Brownsville, which condition of affairs enabled 
me to release General Ortega, as he had but few friends on the Mexican side 
after the suppression of the Canales usurpation. 

I am, general, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

P. H. SHERIDAX, 
Major General U. S. A. 
Brevet Major General J. A. Rawlins, 

Chief of Staff, Washington, D. C. 
Official : 

GEO. K. LEET, 

Assistant Adjutant General. 



Copy of an article published in the Rio Grande Courier, of date Brownsville 

December 7, 1866. 

THE OCCUPANCY OF MATAMORAS. 

From the despatches which appear in the northern papers, via Louisville, 
coupled with the arrival of General Sheridan at this point, it would seem well 
settled that Colonel Thomas D. Sedgwick either has been, or immediately will 
be, relieved from the command of the sub-district of the Bio Grande. 

While the primary cause of this is, no doubt, the dissatisfaction felt by high 
authority on account of his course in the late occupancy of Matamoras, yet it is 
more than probable that S';me change would have occurred at an early date. 

While we know of no earthly reason for reflecting upon the good intentions 
of Colonel Sedgwick, yet it has been well understood that the delicate position 
of affairs here requires a man of enlarged experience, both in military and civil 
matters. Colonel Sedgwick came to the comtnmd by virtue of seniority of rank 
solely, and without regard to fitness or qualification. He did not seek the place. 
Indeed, without claiming to speak by authority, we think we can safely say that 
he accepted it only because his official duty did not allow him to decline it. 

It has so happened that the difficulties over the river, and the machinations 
upon this side, have been far greater and more numerous than usual during his 
administration, making his duties the more intricate and arduous. 

It is impossible for either the authorities at New Orleans or at Washington 
to lay down a course of conduct to be followed in every case which'may arise. 
All they can do is to mark out a general line of policy, leaving to the good 
sense and judgment of the commander here to atteud to the details. To do this 
is oftentimes the most difficult part of the task. 

The interests upon the other side of the Rio Grande are so often complicated, 
the leaders so numerous, their professions so ^persistent, and their skill at diplo- 
macy so great, backed up, as they are, by any number of shrewd, intelligent 
■lawyers, that he is indeed a man of unusual intelligence who can cope with them. 



548 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

And for this reason we say, as we have before said, that there is no place upon 
the continent where a commanding officer of great sagacity and firmness is more 
required. 

In the late fiasco, for such it was, Colonel Sedgwick has been simply outwitted 
by a combination of military and civil influences, the latter mostly of American 
nationality. 

The foreign merchants and capitalists of Matamoras, who have been compelled 
to advance money to Canales, were naturally enough anxious for its return. 
Escobedo, in all attempts which were made at negotiations, persistently refused 
to recognize Canales's engagements. These merchants were consequently op- 
posed to any surrender of the city which should involve the loss of the money 
advanced by them. Many of them were Americans, and, in these matters, had 
the ear of the commanding officer. In their advice and representations they 
were of course influenced by their interests. They were also in the confidence 
of Canales, for, in the matter pending, their interests lay with him. With these, 
and with Canales, who professedly recognized Juarez as President, Colonel 
Sedgwick had to deal ; every question which might at the same time arise, the 
more complicated by the presence of an army, under the command of the recog- 
nized representative of Juarez, besieging the city, for whose success General 
Sedgwick was at all times anxious. The result was a blunder which, in its 
practical results, was in this instance " worse than a crime." The object de- 
sired, viz., the advancement of Escobeda's interest, was not obtained, but rather 
the contrary, as the presence of the American force, in the attack which followed, 
contributed very greatly to the success of Canales. Nor, as it seems, were the 
wishes of the government carried out, as, in rendering assistance to Juarez, his 
instructions did not warrant the occupancy of American territory. The result 
has been Colonel Sedgwick's removal. Though not as generally well known as 
his predecessors, socially he has been popular with our citizens, and, aside from 
his official duties, his departure from among us (should this be involved) wi'l be 
regretted. In commenting upon his course in the late affair, this journal has 
felt compelled to criticise it with some severity. The result has shown that we 
were correct. 

In doing so, we have been actuated by no unkind feelings to Colonel Sedg- 
wick, but have acted solely for the honor and interest of the American name. 

Headquarters A. U. S., December 27, 1SCG. 
Official : 

GEO. K. LEET, A. A. G. 



No. 171. 

Mr. Romero to Mr. Seward. 

[Translation.] 

Mexican Legation to the United States of America, 

Washington, December 13, 1866. 
Mr. Secretary: For some days past the public press of this country have 
been publishing the report of a strange act, attributed to General Sedgwick, 
commanding in chief the United States forces at Brownsville, State of Texas. 
It has been said that the general referred to sent troops of the United States, 
who occupied Matamoras, at the moment when that city was attacked by General 
Escobedo, to carry out the orders he had from the government of the Mexican 
republic; the necessary result of such occupation being, under the circumstances 
in which that garrison stood, to interpose great difficulty to its capture by General 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 549 

Escobedo, whose forces were, in consequence, repulsed with serious and lament- 
able losses. • This narrative, with more or less details, has been confirmed by 
private letters. Besides, I hoped to have before me the official report of such 
occurrences in order to recur to you in presenting the complaints which the case 
should require. 

Notwithstanding, I have not yet been able to obtain the official report which 
I wished for, and as I have no doubt that the facts treated of have substantially 
taken place as the press has related them, I think myself obliged to call to them 
your attention, transmitting to you herewith the annexed extracts from the 
Tribune aud the World, of New York — correspondent with the 6th day of this 
month. Convinced, as I am, through various trustworthy reports, that the 
occupation of Matamoras, to which I allude, did not emanate from orders and 
instructions from the President of the United States, my object now is only to 
express the pain caused to me by this uncalled for occurrence, through the mis- 
chief it occasioned to the loyal forces of my government, no less than for the 
sinister constructions which the enemies of the Mexican republic might put 
upon it, by attributing it to a direct intervention of the United States in the 
domestic affairs of that republic. 

I should assure you that I entertain well-founded confidence that the govern- 
ment of the United States will take the measures necessary to chastise all who 
are responsible for the acts to which I confine myself, and to avoid in future the 
repetition of the like. 

I avail of this occasion to repeat to you, Mr. Secretary, the assurances of my 
most distinguished consideration. 

M. EO.MERO. 

Hon. William H. Seward, fyc, Sj-c, fyc. 



[Special despatch to the New York World, December G, 18i>6.] 

Cincinnati, December 5. 

A special despatch to the Commercial, from Brownsville, Texas, dated No- 
vember 30, says : 

"General Sedgwick, on the 24th, made a formal demand on Colonel Canales 
for the immediate surrender of Matamoras, which was acceded to, and Canales 
occupied the fortifications, while the American flag floats over the city. A suf- 
ficient number of troops occupy the city to render the occupation secure. 

"Escobedo attacked Caaales on the 27th, and a desperate battle ensued, last- 
ing three hours, resulting in the defeat of Escobedo, with a loss of six hundred 
men, including General Espinosa. Colonel Cfinales lost seventy-five men. 

Escobedo lays his defeat to the interference of United States troops." 

" Another despatch says Escobedo attacked Canales in Matamoras on Tuesday 
morning at half-past five o'clock, but fell back after two hours' desperate strug- 
gle. One occasion of his defeat was the occupation of Matamoras, three days before, 
by a body of American troops, who relieved Canales of the city, and left him to 
use his force in defending the fortifications. 

Escobedo indignantly complains of the action of General Sedgwick. He 
expects re-enforcements, when he will resume the attack. Meanwhile, the Ameri- 
can flag floats within the besieged defences. 

SECOND DESPATCH. 

Cincinnati, December 5. 

The following is the full despatch to the Commercial : 

The city of Matamoras was surrendered to General Sedgwick, commanding 
the United States forces on the Rio Grande, on the evening of the 24th instant. 
Colonel J. G. Perkins, of the nineteenth United States colored infantry, was 



550 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

placed in c'onnnand. One hundred and eighteen men of the fourth cavalry 
crossed over and cccupied the city on that day. 

Colonel Canales made an official statement to General Sedgwiek that, owing 
to his inability to pay his troops, he could no longer correct them, whereupon 
Sedgwick immediately demanded the surrender of the place, which was granted. 

The following were the terms : First, Colonel Canales shall place Matamoras 
under the orders of the commander of the United States forces. Second, the 
latter guarantees to. Canales and his forces their liberty and secures the safety 
of their interests. Third, the persons and interests of all the inhabitants of 
Matamoras are to be respected, no matter to what nationality they belong. 
Fourth, the forces of Canales are to maintain their actual position. Fifth, 
no forces shall enter the place except those of the United States. 

It will be seen that, under the agreement, General Sedgwick pledges himself 
that the forces of Escobedo, now besieging the city, shall not enter therein, and 
that the forces of Canales shall remain within the fortifications. 

On Sunday morning, the 25th, Colonel Perkins issued the following order, 
which was posted about the streets : 

[General Order No. 1.] 

Headquarters United States Forces, 

Matamoras, November 24, 1866. 
According to the orders which the undersigned has received, he takes command 
of this city in the name of the United States. The persons belonging to my staff 
are the following : Lieutenant J. S. Patterson, assistant adjutant general; W. T. 
Larkin, provost marshal, who shall be obeyed and respected as such. 

M. G. PERKINS, 
Commander United States Forces. 

A body of colored troops passed over Saturday night. During Sunday a 
pontoon bridge was laid at the ferry-way. 

On Sunday evening, through the instrumentality of General Sedgwick, an 
interview was arranged between Canales and Escobedo, for the purpose of set- 
tling existing difficulties. Much bickering and recrimination ensued, and nothing 
was accomplished. 

Escobedo announced his intention to attack the city at once. Monday, the 
26th, passed in quiet. Colonel Perkins having been taken sick, Brevet Colonel 
A. M. Randall, company I, first artillery, was placed in command, and the 
American troops occupied the plaza, while Colonel Canales remained within the 
fortifications. 

The attack began at 5 o'clock a. m. of the 27th. Escobedo opened his attack, 
the Ameiican flag meanwhile floating from the Government House. A feint 
was made by Cortinas on the south side of the city, while the main attack was 
made on the north side. Brisk firing continued up to 7 o'clock, but the attack 
was repulsed at every point. The American force in the city preserved peace 
and guarded the ferry, practically acting as provost guard. 

Escobedo, who is endeavoring to enforce the authority of Juarez, attributes 
his defeat to the moral effect of the presence of the Americans, which he con- 
sidered increased the strength of Canales threefold. He claims that orders 
were forwarded to General Sedgwick from Washington to afford him all the as- 
sistance which he might require in sustaining the authority of Juarez, and that, 
instead of doing it, he has assisted Canales, who is in open rebellion. 

Escobedo's loss in killed and wounded, captured and deserted, foots up seven 
hundred and fourteen men. 

During the fight on Tuesday morning Colonel Randall sent a message, under 
flag of truce, to Escobedo, informing him that the United States forces held the 
place, and directing that in no case should his forces advance beyond the forti- 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 551 

fications without communicating with him (Randall.) Escobedo responded that 
he should be guided by circumstances; that the American commander had 
promised him to withdraw all his troops, save fifty men ; and that he had broken 
his promise by retaining three hundred men in the place. Randall, who had re- 
ceived orders in no case to fire on Escobedo's men, immediately made arrange- 
ments to withdraw with the army in case he should be attacked. Battery I, of 
the first artillery, was stationed on the American bank to cover the troops, if 
for any reason they should have to fall back. 

The following is a memorandum of the agreement entered into betwepn Sedg- 
wick and Escobedo prior to the attack : 

First. General Sedgwick assures General Escobedo of the continued friend- 
ship of the United States government towards himself and the liberal govern- 
ment. 

Second. The American commander considers himself as morally holding the 
city of Matamoras, under the terms of Canales's surrender of that place to him; 
but it is for no hostile purpose, as regards the force commanded by General Es- 
cobedo, but to protect the lives and property of American citizens and others of 
foreign nationality. 

Third. That the American commander will withdraw the armed forces in case 
an attack is made, with the exception of fifty men and two officers, who will 
report their presence to General Escobedo should he capture the city. 

Fourth. That the United States forces shall hold Santa Cruz and the ferry, 
and that no armed men shall cross to the American shore. This agreement had 
not been made known to Colonel Randall when he sent out the flag of truce. 

RUMORS OF AN ATTACK ON BROWNSVILLE 

by Cortinas, were rife on Tuesday, the 27th, and two hundred citizens were en- 
rolled for defence ; they were armed by the United States authorities. It 
proved nothing but a scare. On Wednesday this force was retained under arms 
to keep down any outbreak on the part of the Mexican population, as such was 
threatened. 

The occupancy of Matamoras by the Americans caused the most bitter feel- 
ing among the people, and prominent citizens are accused of exciting the lower 
orders to an attack on the troops. General Sedgwick's course is regarded as 
incomprehensible. He seems at first to have determined to take possession of 
and hold the city, with a view of eventually turning it over to Escobedo, and 
to have subsequently changed his mind and held it for the purpose of protect- 
ing American and other foreign citizens, while Canales and Escobedo were 
fighting over the fortifications. 

His position rids Canales of the necessity of taking care of the city and of 
protecting the ferry. The impression among his troops was that the American 
forces were in the city to assist them if necessary. 

Escobedo announces his intention to renew the attack at an early date. 
Sedgwick has written to him stating that he desired his success, and would do 
what he could to assist him. Escobedo returned a very bitte: response. 

General Sedgwick, apparently realizing the effect of his act, is doing what 
he can to remedy it. All supplies for Canales from this side have been stopped, 
and all the forces have been withdrawn, save a company of colored troops. 

The steamer has just arrived from New Orleans and returns at once. It 
brought despatches to General Sedgwick, on receipt of which, orders were 
issued for the withdrawal of the troops from Matamoras. 

Advices received here from the city of Mexico say that Mejia left that city 
October 2, with orders to march on Matamoras with all speed. Another report 
says the liberal force under Queviro, Narajano, and others were completely 
routed at the Hacienda de los Bocas, near San Luis Potosi. Quiroga left the 



552 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

main army with one thousand cavalry, and marched upon Monterey, which had 
been left without defence. 

Brownsville, December 1, 1866. 
Upon the demand of General Sedgwick, the city of Matamoras, with the for- 
tifications and troops, were surrendered to the United States last evening. The 
troops are to be treated as prisoners of war of the United States. Their lives 
and property are fully guaranteed. The city will be turned over to Escobedo. 
He is reported in possession. 



[By telegraph to the New York Tribune, December 6, 1866.] 

AMERICAN VIOLATION OF NEUTRALITY — GENERAL SEDGWICK'S OCCUPATION OF 
MATAMORAS HE SUSTAINS CANALES — ESCOBEDO'S ATTACK ON THE CITY. 

Washington, December 5. 
The following despatch has just been received at this bureau from the Tribune 
bureau at Brownsville : 

Brownsville, November 30. 

American neutrality on the Mexican border has again been sacrificed, but 
this time, instead of on the side of Juarez and justice, as under gallant, but 
too impetuous Weitzel, it has been prostituted to serve a rebel and mutineer, as 
Servanda Canales, the usurper of Matamoras, is to our government as much an 
outlaw as Mejia, the imperialist. The former lacks the personal claims that 
entitled the gentlemanly commander and sober representative of Maximilian to 
respect and consideration. The mistake of General Sedgwick, therefore, in in- 
terfering in favor of Canales, is both a diplomatic and moral blunder. On Sat- 
urday; the 24th instant, Escobedo, with about 2,700 men, being expected to 
attack Matamoras, Canales expressed a desire to surrender the place to Colonel 
Sedgwick, alleging, as his excuse, that he could not control his own command, 
which, he said, unless restrained, would resort to pillage. His request and 
reasons for this having been stated in writing, General Sedgwick responded by 
immediately crossing a detachment of the 4th cavalry and the 19th United 
States colored infantry, the former under Brevet Colonel Mclntyre and the 
latter under Colonel Perkins. Colonel Perkins, with his colored troops, took 
station at Santa Cruz, which is at the ferry and about two miles from the city. 
Mclntyre went into town and the next Sunday morning published an order as- 
suming command of the surrendered city by virtue of rank, forbidding any 
but United States soldiers to carry arms, forbidding soldiers to pass or repass 
without authority, and requiring foreign citizens to register themselves at their 
several consulates, and to pass goods, if subject to pass, from headquarters of 
the American occupation. This order was countermanded and taken down by 
Colonel Perkins, sustained by General Sedgwick. Brevet Lieutenant Colonel 
Randall, 1st United States artillery, soon after succeeded Mclntyre in com- 
mand. 

Thus, while the city appeared nominally surrendered to the Americans, not 
only were Canales's troops permitted to retain their arms, but left free to occupy 
in full force the fortifications against which Escobedo was to move. Late Sun- 
day evening a meeting between Escobedo and Canales was arranged by Brevet 
Brigadier General Sedgwick, to the end of an amicable settlement, which, of 
course, was impossible, Escobedo, justly offended at the new attitude of affairs 
and the moderate support rendered by Americans to the cause of mutiny, re- 
fusing to accept anything less than unconditional surrender for Canales, at the 
same time demanding the withdrawal of the United States troops except 50 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 553 

men, to remain for the protection of American interests, which demand was. 
agreed to by General Sedgwick, but he failed to comply with it. Instead of 50, 
300 Americans were retained in the city, for which General Sedgwick's preca- 
rious excuse is that it subsequently appeared the additional number of Ameri- 
cans were absolutely necessary as a defence against an uprising of the citizens, 
so outraged by such ill-timed intervention. To an American flag of trace sent 
out on the morning of the attack to inquire what would be the attitude of the 
assailants toward the Americans, Escobedo returned a curt reply that, as the 
stipulations had been violated, his own course would be guided by circum- 
stances. At 5 o'clock on Tuesday morning, Escobedo attacked in full force, with 
about 2,700 infantry and artillery. The attack was begun upon the left, the 
east or lower side of the city, by Oortinas, who was repulsed ; next at Fort 
Monterey, at the back of the city, on the Monterey road. General Lonnegane- 
ga assaulted, but his bridge prepared for the trench proving too short, in the 
delay ensuing, the point of attack was re-enforced and rescued. The final as- 
sault upon the usurper, on the upper or west side of the city by the cazadores 
and two squadrons of cavalry under Colonel Flores, was also successfully re- 
pelled, by the ill-timed intermeddling of Americans, Canales being enabled to 
swing his whole force from side to side as needed, without fear of a distracted 
rear. 

The following, from the Ranchero of the 29th, is represented to be Escobe- 
do's general order extraordinary : 

GENERAL ORDER FOR THE NIGHT OF THE 26TH OF NOVEMBER AND THE MORN- 
ING OF THE 27TH. 

The general in command orders that to-morrow r Matamoras be attacked by 
the forces under his command. For this the following columns will form, to 
which there will be given suitable positions : The first column shall attack Fort 
Freeport, and will be commanded by Colonel Alonzo Flores, and it will be com- 
posed of the battalion of Cazabores and the squadrons of Fernandez, Garcia, and 
Perez Villareal. The second column shall attack Fort Monterey. It will be ' 
commanded by General Lorenzo Viga, and will be composed of the Coahuila 
battalion, a company of the Foreign Legion, and free corps of the frontier. The 
distance between these columns will be covered by the corps of explorers, under 
the command of Lieutenant Colonel Ruperto Martinez. General Sosternes Rocha 
will have chief command of this line of attack. The reserve will be formed of 
one column of infantry and two of cavalry. On their flanks, the first will be 
composed of the battalion of sappers and miners, first Nuevo Leon, under com- 
mand of General Albino Espinoza and his subordinates, composed of the bodies 
which form the light cavalry brigade, under command of their chief, Colonel 
Adolfo Garza. The artillery will give three pieces for the first column of attack, 
six for the second, and establish its respective parks in convenient positions. 
The train general will situate himself according to instructions of the provost. 
The Tamaulipas brigade, commanded by General Juan N. Cortinas, will attack 
the fortifications of the line which to-day covers and comprises from Fort San 
Fernando to the Rio Grande, by the oriental part of the city. The point or 
points which ought to be attacked is left to his discretion, but on his most strict 
responsibility he is ordered to commence attack as soon as the line which attacks 
west of the city opens artillery. He is also ordered, within half an hour of the 
broken lire, to execute the assault on the fortifications which he attacks. Gen- 
eral Cortinas will make a boundary in order to take possession of the enemy's 
first fortified line quickly, without continuing the attack to the interior of the 
city, till headquarters give him proper instructions, in order to avoid a meeting 
of his column and the columns of attack. General Cortinas will be careful to 
give quick notice to headquarters as soon as he will have taken possession of 



554 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

the enemy's first fortified line, and hold it at all hazards. The forces which at- 
tack the place will Ijave for watchword, " Oajaca," and for the countersign, 
" Durango," and they will carry for distinction a green leaf of any kind of plant. 
The troops will immediately prepare themselves to march to their respective 
positions. At the first, order will be given by General Cortinas to the com- 
manding generals, chief officers and soldiers who compose the forces which go 
to attack Matamoras, that they will be strict and active in discharge of duties, 
which are more important than ever to free themselves. The aforesaid general 
in command is convinced that each and every one of the citizens who make up 
the forces with whose command he is honored understands very well the object 
of the affair which to-day is confided to their valor and military skill. It is as 
important and glorious as if it treated of some national independence, which is 
the principal object of endeavors of d\ Mexicans. 
Headquarters, front of Matamoras. 

By order of the general in command : 

FELIPE BERRIOZABAL, 

Adjutant General. 

Escobedo's loss is rumored to be about four hundred. His right bower, Gen- 
eral Espinosa, lies mortally wounded, shot through both thighs, a prisoner in 
Matamoras. This gallant young chieftain, a native of San Luis Potosi, already 
has no less than a dozen scars. General Sezvando Oanales, youngest brother of 
M. Canales, was killed, and another brother, Tristane, seriously wounded. 

The American flag is reported by Brownsville papers of the 29th to be still 
floating over Matamoras, supported by a garrison of about fifty men. Oanales, 
emboldened by success and backing, still holds out, and, doubtless to the in- 
creased irritation of Escobedo, condescends to offer an arrangement for peace. 
Meanwhile, the American commander and usurper in Mexico has an elephant on 
hand of most egregious proportions. It is fair to state that Brevet Brigadier 
General Sedgwick is a young man, and, doubtless unduly influenced by repre- 
sentations from interested parties in Matamoras, has partly himself acted in good 
.faith. Oanales's adjutant general (Major Foster) is a confederate — a New 
Yorker — who is said to have remarked of the American flag raised over Mata- 
moras that he had fled 2,000 miles in vain to escape its shadow. 

Browxsvillb, November 30. 

Tuesday's struggle lasted two hours. A pontoon was laid across the river 
near the ferry on Sunday, and Colonel Randall, sensitive of his ticklish position, 
had his two batteries drawn up on the American side in readiness to cross. A 
regiment of volunteer militia was raised for the defense of Browsville, and was 
commanded by the notorious fillibuster and confederate, Colonel Ford. 

It is said that Marshall, the new American agent, successor to Mr. Avery, is 
now in Brownsville, afraid to return to his office, such is the danger from the 
loose soldiery of Canales and from citizens enraged at American intervention, 
who cry on the streets " Death to the Gringos !" Escobedo, it is understood, as 
soon as re-enforced by Trevino, will renew the attack, probably this week ; but 
the hope of his troops must again be compassed by the prospect of the flag of a 
friend strangely supporting the foe. 

The Tribune is indebted to Mr. Sterling, of New York City, who courteously 
takes charge of these despatches to telegraph office, Galveston. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. f)55 

Xo. 172. 

Mr. Seward to Mr. Romero. 

Department of State, 

Washington, Decemher 17, 1S66. 
Sir : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your note of the 13th 
of Decemher, in which you allude to a late proceeding of General Sedgwick, in 
taking possession of Matamoras ond holding it for a few hours. I have to 
inform you in reply, that the proceeding of General Sedgwick was not only 
without authority from this government, but is understood by this department 
to have been in violation of the orders of .his military superiors ; that as soon 
as it came to their knowledge the proceeding was disallowed and countermanded, 
and that General Sedgwick was thereupon suspended from command and sub- 
jected to discipline. I am unable to write with precision upon the subject for 
want of full information ; but I think there is sufficient ground for believiug 
that General Sedgwick's error was committed under pressing importunities 
from persons residing in Matamoras, amenable to the government of Mexico, 
and that his indiscreet proceeding was regarded by him as favorable to that 
government, instead of being injurious to it, or likely to give offence. 

I avail myself of this opportunity to renew to you my assurances of the high- 
est consideration. 

WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 

Senor Dox Matias Romero, tyc., 8fc, §v. 



No. 17. 

EVACUATION OF MEXICO BY THE FEENCH. 
List of papers. 

173. Mr. Bigelow to Mr. Seward, May 16, 1S66. 

174. Same to same,. May 31, 1S66. 

175. Mr. Hay to Mr. Seward August 10, 1866. 

176. Mr. Seward to the Marquis de Montholon August 16, 1866. 

177. Mr. Hay to Mr. Seward August 17, 1866. 

178. Mr. Seward to Mr. Bigelow August 24, 1866. 

179. Same to same , October 8, 1866. 

ISO. Same to same Nov. 9, 1S66. 

181. Mr. Seward to Mr. Stanton Nov. 23, 1866. 

152. Mr. Seward to Mr. Campbell, Nov. 23, 1S66. 

153. Mr. Bigelow to Mr. Seward Nov. 30, 1S66 . 



No. 173. 

Mr. Bigelow to Mr. Seward. 

No. 320.] Legation of the United States, 

Paris, May 16, 1S65. 
Sir : I translate from La France, of last evening, the following announcement : 
"The embarcation of troops of Austrian volunteers for Mexico has been coun- 
termanded. Those enlisted have been discharged, and the majority of them 
have been enrolled in the army of the north." 

I suppose I may consider this paragraph, in a semi-official paper, as practi- 



556 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

cally answering - the inquiry which I addressed to the minister of foreign affairs 
on Thursday last, and as finally disposing of what threatened to become an un- 
pleasant complication. 

Apropos of our relations with Mexico, and more especially of the latest phase 
of them, 1 invite your attention to the annexed extracts from the Memorial 
Diplomatique, semi-official, and from the Debats, mild opposition. 

General Almonte, who was appointed to replace Mr. Hidalgo at this court as 
the representative, of Mexico, has arrived. 

I am, sir, with great respect, your obedient servant, 

JOHN BIGELOW. 
Hon. William H. Seward, 

Secretary of State, Washington. 



[Enclosure No. J. — From the Memorial Diplomatique, May 13.] 

According to an American letter published in the Times, the minister of the 
United States at Paris recently suggested to the cabinet of the Tuilleries that, 
for the purpose of arresting the military reprisals in Mexico, the Juarez govern- 
ment should be informed of the limit within which the French army of occupa- 
tion should be withdrawn. Mr. Drouyn de Lhuys delivered this overture for 
the reason that the French government had no means of communication with 
Juarez. At length Mr. Bigelow offered for this purpose to the cabinet of the 
Tuilleries the good offices of his government, near which is accredited the Juarist 
agent, Mr. Romero. 

It appears, from our information, that what there may be of truth in this story 
relates to the steps formerly taken by the federal cabinet to induce France to 
demand from the Mexican government the repeal of certain decrees concerning 
the Juarist brigandage. These steps, and the reception which they met with 
from the minister of foreign affairs of France all this is found at length in the 
Livie Jaime of 1866 ; and we believe that no later incident could have changed 
in this regard tli£ rule of conduct of the imperial government. 



[Enclosure No. 2. — From the Memorial Diplomatique, May 13.] 

According to the information which reaches us from Vienna, the imperial 
government has had no difficulty in convincing Mr. Motley that Austria has no 
intention to send troops to Mexico to replace ; that the volunteers in question 
cannot be considered as Austrian soldiers, as it is of their own accord that, after 
having fulfilled their military obligations in their own country, they enlist in 
the service of the emperor Maximilian to form an integral portion of the Mex- 
ican army. 

The proof that this incident seems to have been settled in a satisfactory man- 
ner is, that the embarcation of one thousand Austrian volunteers was to take 
place the 10th of May instant, at Trieste, where, since the 7th, the Tampico 
has been lying at anchor — a vessel of the Transatlantic Company, on board of 
which they were to be transported to Vera Cruz. 



[Enclosure No. 3. — From the Journal des Debats, May 14, 1366.] 

We yesterday called attention to the despatches of Mr. Seward to the minis" 
ter of the United States at Vienna, in which the American Secretary of State 
protests against the sending of Austrian volunteers to Mexico, in terms whose 
earnestness every one can appreciate. The Constitutionnel thinks it can an- 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 557 

nounce this morning that all difficulties are removed in the matter, and that the 
explanations given by the Vienna cabinet have fully satisfied the minister of 
the United States, so that a first detachment of 1,000 volunteers was to embark 
on the 10th of May at Trieste, for Mexico. To tell the truth, the Constitution- 
nel knows nothing of these facts of itself, but gets them from the Memorial 
Diplomatique, in which, for our part, we are far from having absolute confi- 
dence. It may be, after all, that Austria has not thought proper to pay atten- 
tion to the protest from Washington, although she has at this moment affairs 
enough on hand not to seek for new ones. We shall soon know if it is true 
that one corps of volunteers set out three days ago for Vera Cruz, on board the 
Tampico ; but even if this fact were exact, it would not be enough to prove that 
an understanding in regard to this question of volunteers exists at present be- 
tween Austria and the United States. The very categoric language of Mr. 
Seward permits us to doubt this. We shall wait, therefore, until the text of 
the arrangements concluded between the two governments is made known to us 
before we believe it, by the Constitutionnel's leave, which indorses statements 
of which it has no proof except the assertion of the Memorial Diplomatique, 
which are always to be received with caution. 



No. 174. 

Mr. Bigelow to Mr. Seicard. 

No. 328.] Legation of the United States, - 

Paris, May 31, 1866. 

Sir : I have your despatch, No. 459, marked " confidential," and had pro- 
posed to discuss its contents to-day with the minister of foreign affairs. His 
excellency, however, had received a summons to the palace, which compelled 
him to terminate his reception of the diplomatic corps abruptly. He remarked, 
with a smile, as I entered, that he knew what I came for — that I had a harsh 
message to him. " Am I not right ? " he asked. I told him that I had been 
instructed, as he was aware, it seemed, to acquaint him with the disquiet which 
certain reports, in regard to the transport of fresh troops from different quarters 
of the world to Mexico, had occasioned in the United States, and I expressed 
my fear that these reports, unless met promptly by some satisfactory assurances, 
might develop discussion upon another theatre, imperfectly informed of the 
actual situation and of the dispositions of the imperial government, thereby 
aggravating the difficulties with which both governments already had to con- 
tend. I then said, that as he was called elsewhere, I would wait upon him at 
any other more convenient hour that he would name. He proposed that I 
should call again on Saturday at 1J p. m.; meantime he wished me to be 
assured, as he had assured me on several previous occasions, that the troops 
reported to have sailed for Vera Cruz were to replace others whose terms of 
service had expired, and in numbers less rather than more than were there 
before. He believed, also, that the orders for their shipment were given before 
the proposed recall of the army was announced. Upon all these points he 
expected to have more precise information from the minister of war to give me 
on Saturday. As I was going out his excellency repeated what he has often 
said, that they were but too anxious to withdraw their troops from Mexico ; 
that they would be withdrawn certainly not later, but probably sooner, than the 
time proposed. 

I then took my leave without alluding to the'other subjects about which I 
was specially instructed to confer with him. 

I am, sir, with great respect, your obedient servant, 

JOHN BIGELOW. 

Hon. William H. Seward, Secretary of State. 



558 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

No. 175. 

Mr. Hay to Mr. Seward. 

No. 357.] Legation of the United States, 

Paris, August 10, 1866. 
Sir : There have recently appeared paragraphs in the journals of Paris, an- 
nouncing the contemplated departure from Mexico of the wife of the Archduke 
Maximilian. These naturally created some degree of discussion and comment 
generally unfavorable to the imperial cause in Mexico. To check this injurious 
line of remark, the Memorial Diplomatique, the organ of the so-called Mexican 
empire in Paris, in its last issue published the following formal announcement : 
" We are authorized to contradict, in the most formal manner, the rumor that 
the empress of Mexico is on her way to Europe. 

" The same report was circulated at the time of her majesty's departure for 
Yucatan, and it is known that the emperor Maximilian, on a solemn occasion, 
denounced as an infamous calumny the mere supposition that either he or his 
august spouse could ever be false to their duty." 

The Pays, a journal in the same interest, published on the following day this 
additional denial of the same rumor : 

" A journal, tormented with the desire of producing sensation news, has men- 
tioned in reference to Mexico a completely absurd rumor, started at Paris, by 
no one knows whom, some days ago. 

" There is not one Avord of truth or reason in the assertion." 
Yesterday, to the confusion of these positive and indignant friends, the lady 
in question arrived in Paris, and alighted at the Grand Hotel. She was imme- 
diately waited upon by Mr. Drouyn de Lhuys, who passed in her company the 
greater part of the afternoon. 

To-day the morning papers publish the following extract from the official 
journal of Mexico, of the Sth July: 

" The empress leaves for Europe, where she is going to treat of the affairs of 
Mexico, and regulate different international matters. This mission, accepted by 
our sovereign with real patriotism, is the greatest proof of abnegation that the 
emperor could offer to his new country. We give this intelligence that the 
public may know the real object of her majesty's absence." 

The princess is accompanied by Mr. Martin Castillo, minister of foreign 
affairs, the Comte del Valle, her grand chamberlain, the Oomte de Bouchelles, 
and other officers and attendants. 

The most unfavorable conclusions are deduced from this visit, especially by 
those who are so unfortunate as to hold large amounts of the Mexican loan. It 
is generally regarded as a final effort to obtain by personal influence and solici- 
tation that indispensable aid for the Mexican empire which has been refused to 
its accredited diplomatic representative. 

I am, sir, with great respect, your obedient servant, 

JOHN HAY, 
Charge d' Affaires ad interim. 
Hon. William H. Seward, 

Secretary of State, Washington. 



No. 176. 

Mr. Seward to the Marquis de Montholon. 

Department of State, 

Washington, August 16, 1S66. 
Sir : I have the honor to call your attention to two orders or decrees which 
purport to have been made on the 26th of July last, by Prince Maximilian, who 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 559 

claims to be emperor in Mexico, in which he declares that he has committed the 
direction of the department of war in that country to General Osmont, chief of 
the staff of the French expeditionary corps ; and that he has committed the 
direction of the department of the treasury to Mr. Friant, intendant-in-chief of 
the same corps. 

The President thinks it proper that the Emperor of France should be in- 
formed that the assumption of administrative functions at this time by the afore- 
named officers of the French expeditionary corps under the authority of the 
Prince Maximilian is not unlikely to be injurious to good relations between 
the United States and France, because it is liable to be regarded by the Con- 
gress and people of the United States as indicating a course of proceeding on 
the part of France incongruous with the engagement which has been made for 
the withdrawal of the French expeditionary corps from that country. 
Accept, sir, a renewed assurance of my hi<rh consideration. 

" WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 

Marquis de Montholox, fyc., Sfc., Sfc. 



[Translation — with note of Augnst 16, to M. Month oion.] 
Maximilian, Emperor of Mexico. 

In consideration of the merits, combined with the qualifications of General 
Osmont, chief of the staff of the expeditionary corps, we have thought proper to 
commit to him the direction of the department of war. 
Given at Mexico this 26th July, 1S66. 

MAXIMILIAN. 
By the Emperor : 

Josr Salazar Ylarrequi, 

Minister of the Interior. 



Maximilian, Emperor of Mexico. 

In consideration of the merits, combined with the qualifications of Mr. Friant, 
intendant-in-chief of the expeditionary corps, we have thought proper to com- 
mit to him the direction of the department of the treasury. 
Given at Mexico the 26th July, 1866. 

MAXIMILIAN. 
By the Emperor : 

Jose Salazar Ylarrequi, 

Minister of the Interior. 



No. 177. 
Mr. Hay to Mr. Seward. 

[Extract] 

Legation of the United States, 

No. 358.J Paris. August 17, 1S66. 

Sir : According to a suggestion of Mr. Bigelow, who is spending some days 
with his family at Ems, I called yesterday upon the mi ister of foreign affairs. 
I spoke to his excellency of the reports which were cur; ntly published in the 
journals of Paris in reference to the visit of the Princess Charlotte to France — 



560 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

these reports stating that the stay of Maximilian in Mexico had become condi- 
tional upon a modification of the course of action adopted by the French govern- 
ment, and announced in his excellency's recent communications to the Marquis 
de Montholon and to Mr. Bigelow ; several journals further intimating that the 
princess had succeeded in obtaining a change of that programme. I asked the 
minister if there had been any modification, or if there were any intended of the 
policy of the Emperor's government towards Mexico, heretofore declared. 

He replied, " there had been no modification of our policy in that matter, and 
there is to be none. What we announced our intention to do we will do. Of 
course," he added, " we received the empress with courtesy and cordiality, but 
the plan heretofore determined upon by the Emperor's government, will be exe- 
cuted in the way we announced." 

***** * * * * 

I am, sir, with great respect, your obedient servant, 



JOHN HAY. 



Hon. William H. Seward 



No. 178. 



Mr. Seward to Mr. Bigelow. 

No. 516.] Department of State, 

Washington, August 24, I860. 

Sir : I transmit herewith for your information copies of the President's proc- 
lamation of the 17th instant, declaring null and void a decree of Prince Maxi- 
milian, closing certain ports in Mexico. 
I am, sir, your obedient servant, 

WILLIAM H. ^EWARD. 
John Bigelow, Esq., §v., fyc, §-c. 



BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. 
A PROCLAMATION. 

Whereas a war is existing in the republic of Mexico, aggravated by foreign 
military intervention ; and whereas the United States, in accordance with their 
settled habits and policy, are a neutral power in regard to the war which thus 
affects the republic of Mexico ; and whereas it has become known that one of 
the belligerents in the said war, namely, the Prince Maximilian, who asserts 
himself to be emperor in Mexico, has issued a decree in regard to the port of 
Matamoras, and other Mexican ports which are in the occupation and possession 
of another of the said belligerents, namely, the United States of Mexico, which 
decree is in the following words : 

"The port of Matamoras and all those of the northern frontier which have 
withdrawn from their obedience to the government are closed to foreign and 
coasting traffic during such time as the empire of the law shall not be therein 
reinstated. 

"Art. 2. Merchandise proceeding from the said ports, on arriving at any 
other where the excise of the empire is collected, shall pay the duties on impor- 
tation, introduction, and consumption ; and on satisfactory proof of contraven- 
tion shall be irremissibly confiscated. Our minister of the treasury is charged 
with the punctual execution of this decree. 

" Given at Mexico, the 9th of July, 1S66." 

And whereas the decree thus recited, by declaring a belligerent blockade 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 561 

unsupported by competent military or naval force, is in violation of the neutral 
rights of the United States, as defined by the law of nations, as well as of the 
treaties existing between the United States of America and the aforesaid United 
States of Mexico : 

Now, therefore, I, Andrew Johnson, President of the United States, do 
hereby proclaim and declare that the aforesaid decree is held, and will be held, 
by the United States to be absolutely null and void, as against the government 
and citizens of the United States, and that any attempt which shall be made to 
enforce the same against the government or the citizens of the United States 
will be disallowed. 

In witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and caused the seal of the 
United States to be affixed. 

Done at the city of Washington, the seventeenth day of August, in the year 
of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and sixty-six, and of the independence 
of the United States of America the ninety -first. 

[seal.] ANDREW JOHNSON. 

By the President : 

William H. Seward, Secretary of State. 



No. 179. 

Mr. Seward to Mr. Bigelow. 

[Extract,] 

No. 535.] Department of State, 

Washington, October 8, 1S66. 

S IR : * * * * But the point you mention was 

not distinctly presented to me, namely, what -this government would think of 
the withdrawal of the whole French army in the coming year, instead of its be- 
ing withdrawn in three semi-annual detachments, commencing next November. 
What I have said is this : that the arrangement proposed by the emperor for a 
withdrawal of the troops in three detachments, beginning in November next, was 
in itself quite likely to be forgotten here, in the political excitement which at- 
tends all Mexican questions, before the execution of the agreement should begin. 
That frequent incidents of various kinds, presented by the press in France and 
in Mexico as indicating a disposition on the part of the emperor to depart from 
that engagement, have unavoidably produced a wide popular mistrust of even 
the emperor's sincerity in making the engagement, and of his good faith in ful- 
filling it. That by circumstances of this character this department was kept 
continually under an apparent necessity of protesting against proceedings which 
were thus weakening public confidence in its very just and well-defined expec- 
tations. That the government, on the contrary, relies with implicit confidence 
upon the fulfilment of the emperor's engagement, at least, to the letter ; and it 
has even expected that, overlooking the letter, it would be fulfilled with an 
earnestness of spirit which would hasten instead of retard the evacuation of the 
French forces in Mexico. 

At present, however, we are waiting for the beginning of the evacuation. 
When that beginning shall have come, the government will cheerfully hear sug- 
gestions from any quarter calculated to reassure the restoration of tranquillity, 
peace, and constitutional domestic government in Mexico ; but until we shall be 
able to refer to such a beginning any proceedings towards negotiation would 
only tend to confound public opinion in the United States, and to render the 
situation of Mexico more complicated. 
36 Mex. 



562 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

Of course it is unnecessary to inform you that the speculations which are in- 
dulged in by a portion of the public press, concerning relations supposed to be 
established between this department and General Santa Anna, are without foun 
dation. 

I am, sir, your obedient servant, 

WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 
John Bigelow, Esq., fyc, fyc, Sfc, Paris. 



No. 180. 

Mr. Seward to Mr. Bigelow. 

No. 545. J Department of State, 

Washington, November 9, 1866. 

Sir : I have been unable until this moment to acknowledge the receipt of 
your despatch of October 12, No. 374. 

The President is pleased with the liberal and friendly disposition which is 
manifested by the Marquis de Moustier in regard to our international questions. 

Mr. Campbell proceeds to-morrow, with Lieutenant General Sherman, to Mex- 
ico, or its vicinity. I give you a copy of the instructions of this department to 
our new out-going minister to Mexico. It is not intended that they shall be 
formally or officially communicated to the French government ; but, at the same 
time, we affect no secrecy on the occasion. You may, therefore, make such use 
of them as you find necessary or expedient in making known the policy of this 
government as affected by the anticipated retirement of the French military 
forces from that country. 

I thank you for the information you have given me concerning domestic ques- 
tions of interest in the French empire. 
I am, sir, your obedient servant, 

WILLIAM H. SEWAED. 

John Bigelow, Esq., fyc, 8fc, Sfc., Paris. 



No. 181. 

Mr. Seward to Mr. Stanton. 

Department of State, 

Washington, November 23, 1S66. 
Sir : I herewith submit a correspondence, which, under the direction of the 
President, has taken place between this department and the government of 
France, and also a copy of instructions relative to the matters discussed, which 
have been given to Mr. Campbell, minister plenipotentiary of the United States 
at Mexico. It is submitted for your consideration, whether in this new emer- 
gency any special instructions are necessary for the government of the army of 
observation of the United States to prevent premature disturbance of the peace 
while maintaining the safety of the United States. 
I have the honor, &c, 

WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 
Hon. E. M. Stanton, Secretary of War. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 563 

No. 1S2. 
Mr. Seward to Mr. Campbell. 

Xo. 4 J Department of State, 

Washington, November 23, 1S66. 

Sir : I give you a copy of a despatch which has just been received from Mr. 
Bi^elow, from which you will learn, as we have learned with surprise, that the 
French government has postponed its stipulated withdrawal of a detachment 
from Mexico in November, with a purpose, as is avowed, of withdrawing the 
whole of the forces at some time next spring. I give you also a copy of my 
reply thereto, announcing that this resolution of the French government is 
unsatisfactory to the President. 

The same papers will inform you that the President does not think it neces- 
sary or advisable to modify your instructions. 

We are not without confidence in anticipating a satisfactory resolution upou 
the subject from France. 



I am, &c, &c, 
Mr. Campbell. 



WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 



[Enclosure No. 1.] 

No. 384.] Legation of the United States, 

Paris, November 8, 1866. 

Sir : The minister of foreign affairs informed me on Thursday last, in reply 
to a question which certain newspaper rumors prompted me to address him, that 
it was the purpose of the Emperor to withdraw all his troops from Mexico in 
the spring, but none before that time. I expressed my surprise and regret at 
this determination, so distinctly in conflict with the pledges given by his excel- 
lency's predecessor, Mr. Drouyn de Lhuys, both to you, through the Marquis 
de Montholon, and also to myself personally. The marquis assigned consider- 
ations of a purely military character, overlooking, or underestimating, as it 
seemed to me, the importance Avhich this change might possibly have upon the 
relations of France with the United States. My first impulse was to send him 
a note on the following day, asking for a formal statement of the Emperor's 
motives of disregarding the stipulations of his foreign minister for a withdrawal 
of one detachment of his Mexican army during the current month of Novem- 
ber. I concluded, however, that it would be more satisfactory to the President 
that I should see the Emperor himself upon the subject. I accordingly waited 
upon his Majesty yesterday, at St. Cloud, repeated to him what the Marquis de 
Moustier had told me, and desired to know what, if anything, could be done by 
me to anticipate and prevent the discontent which I felt persuaded would be 
experienced by my couutry-people, if they receive this intelligence without any 
explanation. I referred to the early meeting of Congress, when any change in 
our relations either with France or Mexico would be likely to come under dis- 
cussion, and my fear that his Majesty's reasons for postponing the repatriation 
of the first detachment of his troops might be attributed to motives which our 
people would be disposed to resent. 

The Emperor said that it Avas true that he had concluded to postpone the 
recall of any of his troops until spring ; but that in doing so, he had been influ- 
enced by entirely military considerations. At the time he gave the order, the 
successors of the dissidents, supported as they were by large re-enforcements 
from the United States, seemed to render any reduction of his force there peril- 
ous to those who remained behind. 

He accordingly sent a telegraph to Marshal Bazaine, who had already embarked 
a regiment, (eighty-first, I think he said,) but which had fortunately been pre- 



564 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

vented from sailing by unfavorable winds, directing him to embark no troops 
until all were ready to come. This despatch, his Majesty said, was not sent in 
cipher, that no secret might be made of its tenor in the United States. The 
troops were then disembarked, and returned to Orizaba. His Majesty went on 
to say that he sent General Castelnau to Mexico about the same time, charged 
to inform Maximilian that France could not give him another cent of money nor 
another man ; if he thought he could sustain himself there alone, France would 
not withdraw her troops faster than had been stipulated for by Mr. Drouyn de 
Lhuys, should such be his desire; but if, on the other hand, he was disposed to 
abdicate, which was the course his Majesty counselled him to take, General 
Castelnau was charged to find some government with which to treat for the 
protection of French interests, and to bring all the army home in the spring. 

I asked his Majesty if the President of the United States had been notified 
of this, or if anything had been done to prepare his mind for the change in his 
Majesty's policy. He said that he did not know ; that M. de Moustier ought to 
have done so ; that, as these events occurred during the interim of a change in 
the ministry of foreign affairs, it was possible that it had been neglected, though 
his telegram to Marshal Bazaine was purposely sent in a way to show that there 
was nothing in his plans to disguise. 

I remarked that my government was constantly under the necessity of pro- 
testing against acts done in the name of his Majesty, and the effect of such pro- 
tests was always to weaken public confidence in the representations which the 
government had felt itself authorized to make in regard to his Majesty's inten- 
tions. I then explained to him again briefly the grave inconveniences liable to 
result from any unexplained departure from the stipulations already given in 
his Majesty's name to the world. His Majesty replied that we had the tele- 
graph now, and that any misunderstanding of that sort might be readily rectified. 
His Majesty appeared to realize the importance of having an understanding 
with the President upon the subject, and I left with the impression that he in- 
tended to occupy himself with the matter at once. 

There is but one sentiment here about the determination of France to wash 
her hands of Mexico as soon as possible. Nor have I any doubt that the Em- 
peror is acting in entire good faith towards us ; but I did not feel sure that the 
change in his plans upon which I have been commenting would receive so 
favorable an interpretation in the United States. In view of recent successes 
gained by the imperialists in Mexico, and in view of the somewhat turbulent 
state of our politics at home, I feared that the course of the Emperor might 
possibly awaken suspicions in the United States which might seriously preju- 
dice the relations of the two countries. To prevent such a calamity, if possible, 
I thought it my duty to take the precautions of which I have here rendered you 
an account. 

The fact which the Emperor admitted in this conversation, that he had ad- 
vised Maximilian to abdicate, has prepared me to expect every day the an- 
nouncement of his abdication, for such advice, in Maximilian's dependent condi- 
tion, is almost equivalent to an order. That it would be so regarded is, I think, 
the expectation of the Emperor, and ample preparations for the early repatria- 
tion of all the troops have, I believe, already been made by the ministers of war 
and marine. The Emperor stated that he expected to know the final result of 
Castlenau's mission towards the end of this month. 

A telegram has appeared in the London Star and Post, quoting a report cir- 
culating in New York on the 6th, that Maximilian had abdicated. As de- 
spatches received the 7th made no reference to this report, I presume it was, at 
least, premature. 

I am, sir, with great respect, your obedient servant, 

JOHN BIGELOW. 
Hon, William H. Seward, 

Secretary of State. 



CONDITION OP AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 565 

[Enclosure No. 2. ] 

No. 550.] Department of State, 

Washington, November 23, I860. 

Sir: Your despatch of the 8th of November, No. 3S4, in regard to Mexico, 
is received. 

Your proceedings in your interview with M. Moustier, and also your proceed- 
ings in your interview with the Emperor, are entirely approved. Say to M. 
Moustier that this government is surprised and affected with deep concern by 
the announcement, now made for the first time, that the promised recall of one 
detachment of the French troops from Mexico in November current has been 
postponed by the Emperor. The embarrassment thus produced is immeasurably 
increased by the circumstance that this proceeding of the Emperor has been 
taken without conference with, and even without notice to, the United States. 
The government has not in any way afforded re- enforcements to the Mexicans, 
as the Emperor seems to assume, and it has known nothing at all of his coun- 
termanding instructions to Marshal Bazaine, of which the Emperor speaks. We 
consult only official communications to ascertain the purposes and resolutions of 
France, as we make our own purposes and resolutions known only in the same 
manner when she is concerned. 

I am not prepared to say, and it is now unnecessary to discuss, whether the 
President could or could not have agreed to the Emperor's proposed delay if he had 
been seasonably consulted, and if the proposition had been then put, as the pro- 
ceeding is now, upon the ground of military considerations alone, and if it had 
been marked with the customary manifestation of regard to the interests and feel- 
ings of the United States. But the Emperor's decision to modify the existing 
arrangement without any understanding with the United States, so as to leave 
the whole French army in Mexico for the present instead of withdrawing one 
detachment in November current, as promised, is now found in every way in- 
convenient and exceptionable. We cannot acquiesce — 

First. Because the term "next spring," as appointed for the entire evacua- 
tion, is indefinite and vague. 

Second. Because we have no authority for stating to Congress and to the 
American people that we have now a better guarantee for the withdrawal of the 
whole expeditionary force in the spring than we have heretofore had for the 
withdrawal of a part in November. 

Third. In full reliance upon at least a literal performance of the Emperor's 
existing agreement, we have taken measures, while facilitating the anticipated 
French evacuation, to co-operate with the republican government of Mexico for 
promoting the pacification of that country and for the early and complete resto- 
ration of the proper constitutional authority of that government. As a part of 
those measures, Mr. Campbell, our newly appointed minister, attended by Lieu- 
tenant General Shermun, has been sent to Mexico in order to confer with Pres- 
ident Juarez on subjects which are deeply interesting to the United States, and 
of vital importance to Mexico. 

Our policy and measures thus adopted in fall reliance upon the anticipated 
beginning of the evacuation of Mexico were promptly made known to the 
French legation here, and doubtless you have already executed your instructions 
by making them known to the Emperor's government in Paris. 

The Emperor will perceive that we cannot now recall Mr. Campbell, nor can 
we modify the instructions under which he is expected to treat, and under which 
he may even now be treating with the republican government of Mexico. 

That government will, of course, most earnestly desire and confidently ex- 
pect an early and entire discontinuation of foreign hostile occupation. You 
will, therefore, state to the Emperor's government that the President sincerely 
hopes and expects that the evacuation of Mexico Avill be carried into effect with 



566 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

such conformity to the existing agreement as the inopportune complication 
which calls for this despatch shall allow. Mr. Campbell will be advised of that 
complication. Instructions will be issued to the United States military forces 
of observation to await in every case special directions from the President. 
This will be clone with a confident expectation that the telegraph or mail may 
seasonably bring us a satisfactory resolution from the Emperor in reply to this 
note. You will assure the French government that the United States, while 
they seek the relief of Mexico, desire nothing more earnestly than to preserve 
peace and friendship with France. Nor does the President allow himself to 
doubt that what has been determined in France, most inauspiciously as we think, 
has been decided upon inadvertently, without full reflection upon the embarrass- 
ment it must produce here, and without any design to retain the French ex- 
peditionary forces in Mexico beyond the full period of eighteen months, origin- 
ally stipulated for the complete evacuation. 
I am, sir, your obedient servant, 



John Bigelow, Esq., fyc, fyc, fyc, Paris. 



WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 



No. 183. 

Mr. Bigdow to Mr. Seward. 

[Private.] 

Legation of the United States, 

Paris, November 30, 1866. 

My Dear Sir: Your telegram, dated 23d November, from Washington, was 
received on the 26th and 27th instant. I immediately addressed a communica- 
tion to the minister of foreign affairs, who is at Compiegne, and last evening 
received a note acknowledging it, and saying that he reserved his reply. After 
a brief interview with Mr. Rouher, minister of state, this morning, at his request 
I sent another note to the minister of foreign affairs, requesting, in view of the 
urgency of the matter, an explanation of the Emperor's motives for deferring 
the partial evacuation of Mexico, and a statement of his plans and preparations 
for the execution of the stipulation of Mr. Drouyn de Lhuys, in advance of his 
more deliberate reply to my first communication. I hope to have that to-mor- 
row. The government has as yet no news from Castlenau, which will be due 
to-night or to-morrow, neither does it know what has become of Maximilian. 
The papers to-day announce the occupation of Matamoras by the federals. M. 
Rouher assures me that the vessels are all readv and waiting a despatch from 
Castlenau to start for Vera Cruz, and they expect to have their whole force here 
by March at the latest. The minister of marine says they must leave here 
within fifteen days, on account of the fever. 
Yours, very faithfully, 

JOHN BIGELOW. 

Hon. William H. Seward, §c, fyc, fyc. 



Wo. 1§. 
CORRESPONDENCE WITH THE UNITED STATES LEGATION TO MEXICO. 

List of papers. 

184. Mr. Seward to Mr. Campbell October 2, 1866 

185. Mr. Seward to Mr. Campbell October 20, 1866 

186. The President to Mr. Stanton . October 26, 1866 

187. Same to same October 30, 1866 

188. Major General Sheridan to General Grant November 8, 1866 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 567 

1S9. Mr. Campbell to Mr. Seward November 9, 1866 

190. Mr. Seward to Mr. Campbell November 9, 1S66 

19 1. Mr. Campbell to Mr. Seward November 21, 1866 

192. Same to same November 23, 1S66 

193. Mr. Seward to Mr. Campbell November 30, 1S66 

194. Mr. Campbell to Mr. Seward December 1, 1S66 

195. Same to same December 1, 1S66 

196. Mr. Seward to Mr. Campbell December 15, 1866 

197. Same to same December 6, 1866 

198. Mr. Campbell to Mr. Seward December 13, 1866 

199. Mr. Seward to Mr. Campbell December 27, 1S66 

200. Mr. Campbell to Mr. Seward December 24, 1866 

201. Mr. Seward to Mr. Campbell December 29, 1866 

202. Mr. Campbell to Mr. Seward December 24, 1866 

203. Mr. Seward to Mr. Campbell December 25, 1866 

204. Mr. Campbell to Mr. Seward December 31, 1866 

205. Mr. Seward to Mr. Campbell January 14, 1867 



No. 184. 



Mr. Seward to Mr. Campbell. 

No. 2.j Department of State, 

Washington, October 2, 1866. 
Sir : I transmit for your information a communication received at this depart- 
ment from Monterey, Mexico, signed by Mr. Josepb Ulricb, lately appointed 
consul of the United States to that city, in which is contained a petition of sev- 
eral citizens of the United States, merchants of Monterey, setting forth that the 
liberal authorities of Monterey had lately subjected them and other American 
citizens to forced loans, against which they ask the protection of this govern- 
ment. Mr. Ulrich also states that several citizens of the United States are 
now held to service in the Mexican army against their inclination, whose 
respective terms of service have expired. 

These causes will necessitate your early presence at your post; and you are 
therefore instructed to proceed to Mexico at as early an hour as convenient, 
where you will at once lead your attention to the proper investigation of the 
complaints contained in the enclosed documents. 
I am, sir, your obedient servant, 

WILLIAM H. SEVv T ARD. 
Lewis D. Campbell, Esq., fye., fyc-, fyc, 

Hamilton, Ohio. 



Monterey, Mexico, August 28, 1S66. 
Sift: Enclosed is a statement of grievances from a portion of the citizens of 
the United States resident here. The reason for its not being more generally 
signed is, that some declined putting their names to it for fear of being compro- 
mised with the authorities ; others were not asked to sign it, as it was feared, by 
those who did, they would not be prudent enough to keep the matter to them- 
selves, and yet all suffer in common with the signers to the document, and all 
wish redress. This letter is written to explain the lack of more signatures, 
and, also, to show you how precarious our condition is when so much precau- 
tion is necessary in securing our rights, and that you may see how necessary it 
is for our interest that no publicity should be given to the document. 



568 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

I would here urge on the department the necessity of having a consul here 
commissioned. As matters stand I cannot act, and there are now several cases 
requiring the attention of the government. Eight Americans — three white and 
five colored men — are held to service in the army ; their time is expired, as they 
say, and are held contrary to all law and justice, and in the absence of my com- 
mission as consul, I am, of course, unable to aid them. 

Hoping these matters will receive yonr attention, I am yours, respectfully, 

JOSEPH ULRICH. 

Hon. WiLLrAM H. Seward, 

Secretary of State, United States. 



Sir : We, the undersigned, citizens of the United States, residents and doing 
business in the city of Monterey, Mexico, take this means of calling the atten- 
tion of our government to our situation as regards "forced loans " (prestamos) 
now being levied on us by the liberal authorities, for the purposes of raising 
money for their officials and soldiers, contrary to the stipulations of the treaty 
between the two countries, without any regular system of taxation, and merely 
subject, as to amount and frequency, to the will of the chief who may tempo- 
rarily be in power. That these "prestamos" are, in almost every case, levied 
upon merchants alone, and thus fall inevitably on American residents, they, 
mostly, being in commercial business. 

That Americans, in common with all foreigners, suffer severely, as, in every 
case, distinctions are made between the amounts required from the native or 
foreign merchant in the favor of the former. We would also represent that on 
a recent occasion, since the departure of the French from Matamoras, a loan 
was ordered from the commerce of that city, which afterwards was made ex- 
ceptional as to Americans, owing to the pressure brought to bear from the 
American side of the Rio Grande, which furnishes conclusive evidence that 
where these people can be operated on by a direct application of the power of 
our government, they will respect our rights and their treaty obligations. In 
view of this and the fact of our distance from any body of the United States 
forces, we respectfully ask that some steps be taken by our government to save 
us from utter ruin, in the shape of a constant drain of our means, especially 
now, when we have every reason to look for constant changes among the leaders 
here, each one of whom, as usual, on entering upon his career, considers the 
mercantile portion of the community as the only proper subjects for his ex- 
actions. During the French occupancy, under a despotic tyranny which re- 
garded the rights of no one, unrecognized as it was by our government, we had 
nothing to hope for and submitted, but now, with the advent of the liberals, 
we are led to think that we can have at least the protection of our own govern- 
ment, having nothing to hope from any consideration these people will have 
for their treaty obligations, or gratitude for services or sympathy received 
from the United States, unless forced to do so, as in the instance recited 
above. So, we ask you to demand for us rights refused us as individuals ; 
to do this, not by correspondence merely, as that will be of no avail, but 
by sending a special agent, a man of character and firmness, who can settle 
the matter at once and forever, and thus furnish a precedent here in Mon- 
terey which may be followed over the whole republic. The party sent must 
come with full powers to enforce his wishes, as, otherwise, his visit will be use- 
less. These people will not listen to consuls, or agents resident here, as they 
are well aware how little attention is paid to reports from such officials ; but a 
special agent on the subject of " prestamos " (and all the better if his name is 
identified with our army) will command their attention. We ask this as we 
know it to be the only means of redressing these constant outrages, and we 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 569 

hope our government will think the matter of sufficient importance to receive 
attention, involving, as it does, the ruin of American citizens who are compelled 
by their business position to remain in this country, where their property is thus 
insecure, merely from the neglect on the part of their government heretofore to 
protect them. The absolute necessity of this protection will be evident, when 
we inform you that the penalty attached to a refusal to pay promptly these 
" prestamos " is confiscation of property, imprisonment, or banishment from the 
countrv. We have, therefore, no alternative, in the absence of a thorough un- 
derstanding between the two governments, in relation to the matter, but to yield 
to their exactions, or to subject ourselves to the penalties above named. 

D. D. BRAMARD. 

CHARLES RUSSELL. 

R. DRESEL. 

JOSEPH ULRIOH. 

JAMES N. LANGSTROTH. 

M. W. STARR, Jr. 
Hon. William H. Seward, 

Secretary of State of the United States. 



No. 185. 

Mr. Seward to Mr. Campbell. 

No. 3.J Department of State, 

Washington, October 20, 1866. 

Sir : You are aware that a friendly and explicit arrangement exists between 
this government and the Emperor of France, to the effect that he will withdraw 
his expeditionary military forces from Mexico in three parts ; the first of which 
shall leave Mexico in November next, the second in March next, and the third 
in November, 1867; and that upon the evacuation being thus completed, the 
French government will immediately come upon the ground of non-intervention 
n regard to Mexico, which is held by the United States. 

Doubts have been entertained and expressed in some quarters upon the ques- 
tion whether the French government will faithfully execute this agreement. 
No such doubts have been entertained by the President, who has had repeated, 
and even recent, assurances that the complete evacuation of Mexico by the 
French will be consummated at the periods mentioned, or earlier, if compatible 
with climaticiil, military, and other conditions. 

There are grounds for supposing that two incidental questions have already 
engaged the attention of the French government, namely : 

1. Whether it should not advise the departure of the Prince Maximilian for 
Austria to be made before the withdrawal of the French expedition. 

2. Whether it would not be consistent with the climatical, military, and other 
conditions before mentioned to withdraw the whole expeditionary force at once, 
instead of retiring it in three parts, and at different periods. 

No formal communication, however, upon this subject has been made by the 
Emperor of the French to the government of the United States. When the 
subject has been incidentally mentioned, this department, by direction of the 
President, has replied that the United States await the execution of the agree- 
ment for evacuation by the French government, at least according to its letter, 
while they would be gratified if that agreement could be executed with greater 
promptness and despatch than are stipulated. 

Under these circumstances the President expects that within the next month 
ovember) a portion at least of the French expeditionary force will retire 



570 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

from Mexico, and lie thinks it not improbable that the whole expeditionary force 
may be withdrawn at or about the same time. 

Such an event cannot fail to produce a crisis of great political interest in the 
republic of Mexico. It is important that you should be either within the terri- 
tories of that republic., or in some place near at hand, so as to assume the exer- 
cise of your functions as minister plenipotentiary of the United States to the 
republic of Mexico. 

What may be the proceedings of the Prince Maximilian, in the event of a 
partial or complete evacuation of Mexico, of course cannot now be certainly 
foreseen. What may be the proceedings of Mr. Juarez, the President of the re- 
public of Mexico, in the same event, cannot now be definitely anticipated. 

We are aware of the existence of several political parties in Mexico, other 
than those at the head of which are President Juarez and Prince Maximilian, 
who entertain conflicting views concerning the most expedient and proper mode 
of restoring peace, order, and civil government in that republic. We do not 
know what may be the proceedings of those parties in the event of the French 
evacuation. 

Finally, it is impossible for us to foresee what may be the proceedings of the 
Mexican people in case of the happening of the events before alluded to. For 
these reasons it is impossible to give you specific directions for the conduct of 
your proceedings in the discharge of the high trust which the government of the 
United States has confided to you. Much must be left to your own discretion, 
which is to be exercised according to the view you may take of political move- 
ments as they shall disclose themselves in the future. There are, however, 
some principles which, as we think, may be safely laid down in regard to the 
policy which the government of the United States will expect you to pursue. 
The first of these is, that, as a representative of the United States you are 
accredited to the republican government of Mexico, of which Mr. Juarez is 
president. Your communications as such representative will be made to him, 
wheresoever he may be, and in no event will you officially recognize either the 
Prince Maximilian, who claims to be emperor, or any other person, chief, or 
combination, as exercising the executive authority in Mexico, without having 
first reported to this department, and received instructions from the President 
of the United States. 

Secondly. Assuming that the French military and naval commanders shall be 
engaged in good faith in executing the agreement before mentioned for the evac- 
uation of Mexico, the spirit of the engagement on our part in relation to that 
event will forbid the United States, and their representative, from obstructing 
or embarrassing the departure of the French. 

Thirdly. What the government of the United States desire in regard to the 
future of Mexico is not the conquest of Mexico, or any part of it, or the ag- 
grandizement of the United States by purchases of land or dominion, but, on 
the other hand, they desire to see the people of Mexico relieved from all foreign 
military intervention, to the end that they may resume the conduct of their own 
affairs under the existing republican government, or such other form of gov^ 
ernment as, being left in the enjoyment of perfect liberty, they shall determine 
to adopt in the exercise of their own free will, by their own act, without dicta- 
tion from any foreign country, and of course without dictation from the United 
States. 

It results, as a consequence from these principles, that you will enter into no 
stipulation with the French commanders, or with the Prince Maximilian, or with 
any other party, which shall have a tendency to counteract or oppose the ad- 
ministration of President Juarez, or to hinder or delay the restoration of the 
authority of the republic. On the other hand, it may possibly happen that the 
President of the republic of Mexico may desire the good offices of the United 
States, or even some effective proceedings on our part, to favor and advance the 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 571 

pacification of a country so long distracted by foreign, combined with civil, war, 
and thus gain time for the re-establishment of national authority upon principles 
consistent with a republican and domestic system of government. It is possible, 
moreover, that some disposition might be made of the land and naval forces of 
the United States, without interfering within the jurisdiction of Mexico, or vio- 
lating the laws of neutrality, which would be useful in favoring the restoration 
of law, order, and republican government in that country. 

You are authorized to confer upon this subject with the republican government 
of Mexico, and its agents, and also to confer informally, if you find it necessary, 
with any other parties or agents, should such an exceptional conference become 
absolutely necessary, but not otherwise. You will by these means obtain in- 
formation which will be important to this government, and such information you 
will convey to this department, with your suggestions and advice as to any 
proceedings on our part which can be adopted in conformity with the principles 
I have before laid down. 

You will be content with thus referring any important propositions on the 
subject of reorganization and restoration of the republican government in Mexico 
as may arise to this department for the information of the President. 

The general of the United States possesses already discretionary authority as 
to the location of the forces of the United States in the vicinity of Mexico. 

His military experience will enable him to advise you concerning such ques- 
tions as may arise during the transition stage of Mexico from a state of military 
siege by a foreign enemy to a condition of practical self-government. At the 
same time it will be in his power, being near the scene of action, to issue any 
orders which may be expedient or necessary for maintaining the obligations rest- 
ing upon the United States in regard to proceedings upon the borders of Mexico. 
For these reasons, he has been requested and instructed by the President to 
proceed with you to your destination, and to act with you as an adviser recog- 
nized by this department in regard to the mattei's which have been herein dis- 
cussed. After conferring with him, you are at liberty to proceed to the city of 
Chihuahua, or to such other place in Mexico as may be the residence of President 
Juarez ; or, in your discretion, you will proceed to any other place in Mexico 
not held or occupied at the time of your arrival by enemies of the republic of 
Mexico; or you will stop at any place in the United States, or elsewhere, near 
the frontier or coast of Mexico, and await there a time to enter any portion of 
Mexico which shall hereafter be in the occupation of the republican government 
of Mexico. 

I am, sir, your obedient servant, 

WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 

Lewis D. Campbell, fyc , Sf-c, Sfc. 



No. 186. 
The President to the Secretary of War. 

Executive Mansion, 
Washington, D. C, October 26, 1S66. 
Sir : Recent advices indicate an early evacuation of Mexico by the French 
expeditionary forces, and that the time has arrived when our minister to Mexico 
should place himself in communication with that republic. 

In furtherance of the objects of his mission, and as evidence of the earnest 
desire felt by the United States for the proper adjustment of the questions in- 
volved, I deem it of great importance that General Grant should, by his presence 
and advice, co-operate with our minister. 



572 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO 

I have, therefore, to ask that you will request General Grant to proceed to 
some point on our Mexican frontier, most suitable and convenient for communi- 
cation with our minister; or (if General Grant deems it best) to accompany him 
to his destination in Mexico, and to give him the aid of his advice in carrying 
out the instructions of the Secretary of State, a copy of which is herewith sent 
for the general's information. 

General Grant will make report to the Secretary of War of such matters as, 
in his discretion, ought to be communicated to the department. 
Very respectfully, yours, 

ANDREW JOHNSON. 
Hon. Edwin M. Stanton, 

Secretary of War. 



No. 187. 



The President to the Secretary of War. 

Executive Mansion, 
Washington, D. G, October 30, 1866. 
Sir : General Ulysses S. Grant having found it inconvenient to assume the 
duties specified in my letter to you of the 26th instant, you will please relieve 
him from the same, and assigu them, in all respects, to William T. Sherman, 
Lieutenant General of the army of the United States. By way of guiding 
General Sherman in the performance of his duties, you will furnish him with a 
copy of your special orders to General Grant, made in compliance with my let- 
ter of the 26th instant, together with a copy of the instructions of the Secretary 
of State to Lewis D. Campbell, esq., therein mentioned. The Lieutenant General 
will proceed to the execution of his duties without delay. 
Very respectfully, yours, 

ANDREW JOHNSON. 
Hon. Edwin M. Stanton, 

Secretary of War. 



No. 1S8. 
[Cipher telegram.] 
Major General Sheridan to General Grant. 

Headquarters Department of the Gulf, 

New Orleans, Louisiana, November 8, 1866. 
General: While at Galveston on the 6th, Captain McCan, of the navy, who 
left Tampico on the 2d, informed me that Maximilian had abdicated ; that his 
foreign troops had substituted the French flag for the imperial, and that the 
French forces in Mexico were now an army of occupation. 

P. H. SHERIDAN, 

Major General U. S. A. 
General U. S. Grant, 

Commanding Armies United States, Washington, D. C. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 573 

No. 189. 

Mr. Campbell to Mr. Seward. 

Office United States Military Telegraph, 

Washington, D. C, November 9, 1S66. 

[Telegram received at War Department from New York, November 9, 1866— time 9.45 a. m.] 
Hon. W. H. Seward, Secretary of State : 

Arrived with General Sherman last evening. Have received instructions sent 
here by mail and by Plumb. I find in them no instructions as to how I am 
to proceed to Mexico, nor any orders placing any vessel at my disposal. 

LEWIS D. CAMPBELL, 

Metropolitan Hotel. 



No. 190. 



Mr. Seward to Mr. Campbell. 
[By military telegraph.] 

Department of State, 

Washington, November 9, 1866. 
Lewis D. Campbell, 

Minister to Mexico, Metropolitan Hotel, Nezv York. 
Your telegram of this morning has been received. The United States steamer 
Susquehanna, Commodore James Alden, has been ordered by the Secretary 
of the Navy to take you, General Sherman, and your respective suites, and also 
Mr. Plumb, to any place in or near Mexico which you may designate. The 
vessel is ready and at your immediate disposal. 

WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 



No. 191. 

Mr. Campbell to Mr. Seward. 

[Confidential.] 

No. 2.] United States Steamer Susquehanna, 

Havana, November 21, 1866. 

Sir : Although the facts I am about to relate may in themselves be of little 
importance, in connection with other information they may have a tendency to 
throw some further light upon the present situation of affairs in Mexico. I 
therefore deem it proper to communicate them. 

The day after my arrival in this port I was informed by Mr. Minor, our 
consul general here, that an interview with me was desired by General Magru- 
der, late of the so-called confederate army, who, after a residence of many 
months in Mexico, had arrived here on the 17th instant, directly from the city 
of Mexico and Vera Cruz. Mr. Minor also stated that he had reason to believe 
that General Magruder might be able to communicate to me some information 
of value. 

I did not deem it proper to call upon General Magruder in any capacity, or 
to seek any information from him, yet believed that if information was voluu- 



574 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

tarily tendered it became my duty to receive it, from whatever quarter it might 
come. 

On yesterday, casually meeting 1 General Magruder at the United States con- 
sulate, he requested an interview with me, which I granted, and a lengthy con- 
versation at once took place, relating mainly to the situation of affairs in Mexico. 
The substance of the information imparted by him is as follows : 

He left the city of Mexico about the first of November, prior to which date 
Maximilian had already left the city and proceeded to Orizaba. 

It was the general understanding that he had abdicated, or, at least, had in 
some way turned over the government to Marshal Bazaine. 

Being about to leave the city of Mexico for Washington, leaving his family 
behind in Mexico, General Magruder called on Marshal Bazaine with the view 
of ascertaining the true situation of affairs, for the purpose of such provisional 
arrangements for them and their safety as might be necessary. 

During this interview General Magruder said to Marshal Bazaine, "I presume, 
in the event of the abdication of Maximilian, your excellency will be the gov- 
ernment." To which he replied, "If such should be the case, I shall only 
occupy the position for transient purposes." 

The following day General Magruder left the city of Mexico for Vera Cruz, 
Maximilian then being at Orizaba. 

He observed on the road down that the French were strongly fortifying 
various points, and especially at Puebla, Orizaba, and the passes below; but he 
was impressed with the belief that these works were rather designed for the 
safe withdrawal of the French troops than for the continued occupation of the 
country by them. 

On his arrival at Vera Cruz he learned from reliable authority that Maxi- 
milian was about to take his departure; but had temporarily delayed doing so 
in consequence of the arrival in that city of Miramon and Marquez, the old 
leaders of the reactionary party. 

On the 13th instant General Magruder was informed by the second captain 
of the Austrian frigate then lying in the harbor of Vera Cruz that that vessel 
was to take out Maximilian, and that their departure had only been delayed in 
consequence of the arrival of Miramon and Marquez; but that Maximilian 
would certainly leave ivilhin ten days, which would be prior to the 23d instant. 

General Magruder further informed me that at the close of his interview with 
Marshal Bazaine, when he was about to bid him adieu, the marshal said to him,' 
"You are about to visit the United States, general?" Reply, " Yes." "You 
will see the President ?" Reply, " I probably shall." " If you do," said Mar- 
shal Bazaine, "deliver him this verbal message from me : The moral influence 
wielded by the government of the United States has destroyed this empire. 
Upon it, therefore, rests the obligation to see that some government be established 
and sustained here that shall secure the protection of life and property and the 
tranquility of this people. This, in my judgment, can only be done by furnish- 
ing physical aid. The interests of foreigners in this country cannot be left 
without some protection of non-combatants engaged in peaceful pursuits, the 
larger proportion of whom are French subjects ; there are at least thirty thousand. 
There should be an armed force, properly distributed, in the country, tempo- 
rarily at least, to assist the government that may be established in preserving 
order and enforcing its decrees. Ten or fifteen thousand United States troops, 
properly distributed in the northern States, and a similar number of French 
troops in the southern States, co-operating with each other, could accomplish 
this." 

I cannot say that I have given the precise words of General Magruder, as 
the conversation was somewhat desultory ; but I have given the substance so 
far as relates to the material points. 

I inquired particularly of General Magruder whether he understood from 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 575 

Marshal Bazaine that the French government would desire to furnish any por- 
tion of the troops, or only in the contingency that the United States should de- 
cline to do so. General Magrader replied promptly that his understanding was 
that the French government would expect to provide a portion of the troops only 
in the event that the United States desired it or declined furnishing the necessary 
forces. 

I then inquired whether he communicated these facts to me for my own in- 
formation merely, or whether I had his authority to communicate the same to 
the Secretary of State. His reply was to this effect : " When I left Mexico, 
I expected to proceed at once to Washington and to communicate these facts 
directly to the government in person ; but on arriving here I learn that in conse- 
quence of the death of Mr. John Van Buren, one of my attorneys, and other 
causes, I may be delayed for some time in this city. Regarding this informa- 
tion as of importance, I have sought this interview with you as the envoy of 
the United States to Mexico, believing that by communicating it to you I am 
accomplishing practically, as nearly as circumstances will permit, the promise I 
made to Marshal Bazaine to deliver his verbal message to the President. You 
are therefore at full liberty to make such use of it as you may deem proper." 

The foregoing, so far as my recollection serves me, embraces all the essential 
points of the interview which I thought it proper to accord to General Mag-ruder 
in compliance with his request communicated to me by Mr. Minor. 

From his manner and the general tenor of his conversation, the impression 
was left upon my mind that he was sincere, and that he desired in good faith to 
serve the interests of the government in communicating what he did. 

I am, sir, very respectfully, your most obedient servant, 

LEWIS D. CAMPBELL. 

Hon. William H. Seward, 

Secretary of State, Wasliington. 



No. 192. 

Mr. Campbell to Mr. Seivard. 

No. 3.] Ux\itbd States Steamer Susquehanna, 

Havana, November 23, 1866. 

Sir : The haste of my departure from New York rendered it impossible for 
me to confer, as it seemed necessary I should, with our consuls to Vera Cruz 
and the city of Mexico, with reference to the arrangement of some plan by which 
they could promptly and reliably communicate to me such information as it will 
be necessary for me to have, on arriving upon the coast of Mexico, as to the 
situation of affairs in the interior. On reaching here and finding that the 
steamer Manhattan, upon which these gentlemen had embarked at New York, 
had not yet arrived at this port, I thought it proper and desirable to delay here 
at least until their arrival, in order to confer more fully with tliem. 

The Manhattan reached here on the afternoon of the 19th, and on the 20th I 
had a full conversation with both Mr. Lane and Mr. Otterbourg, and arranged 
a system by which they will collect and transmit to me such information as 
may tend to expedite my efforts to communicate speedily with President Juarez. 

On the morning of the 21st these gentlemen proceeded to their destination, 
and will probably reach Vera Cruz on the 25th instant. 

The steamer upon which they go will carry to Vera Cruz the first informa- 
tion of the departure of the mission from the United States, and the lapse of a 
few days will therefore enable its effects to be felt, and information to be col- 
lected prior to our arrival; as also to enable Mr. Otterbourg to reach the cityot 



576 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

Mexico and communicate with me from there. From information already com- 
municated to you in my despatch of the 21st, and as derived from other sources, 
it appears probable that Maximilian will have left the country by or about the 
23d instant. On the 22d also a steamer will leave Vera Cruz for this port 
reaching here about the 27th, and thus bringing information up to a very late 
date. 

I have therefore thought that a delay here of a few days might be of advan- 
tage in throwing light upon the proper course to be pursued, and also, perhaps, 
in enabling action to be taken on arriving at Vera Cruz, without unnecessary 
delay, which otherwise might be experienced in waiting information from Mr. 
Otterbourg after his arrival at his post. 

This course seems to me the more necessary for the reason that under the 
discretion thrown upon me by your instructions, I desire to act with great cau- 
tion in every step that I may take. 

As at present advised, the so-called imperial authorities still hold possession 
of the port of Vera Cruz. Your instructions do not authorize me to proceed to 
any place in Mexico "held or occupied at the time of your (my) arrival by 
enemies of the republic of Mexico." 

My present impression is, that at the proper time we will decide to sail for 
Vera Cruz, but to anchor at Green island or Sacrificios, outside the harbor 
proper, for the purpose of receiving from our consul, Mr. Lane, any information 
he may have to communicate, or that may be received through him from Mr. 
Otterbourg, or from other sources. 

This may also afford an opportunity to confer with "the republican govern- 
ment and its agents," if there be such there, and also to "confer informally with 
any other parties or agents," should it become necessary to do so. 
I am, sir, very respectfully, your most obedient servant, 

LEWIS D. CAMPBELL. 

Hon. William H. Seward, 

Secretary of State, Wasliington. 



No. 193. 



Mr. Seward to Mr. Campbell. 

No. 6.] Department op State, 

Washington, November 30, 1866. 
Sir: I have to acknowledge the receipt of your despatches Nos. 2 and 3, of 
the 21st and 23d instant respectively. 

* %. >jc y^ * ^s ;)c 

Your despatch No. 2, containing an account of your interview with Mr. Ma- 
gruder, has been submitted to the President. 

The department approves of your proceedings mentioned in your No. 3 of the 
23d instant, which seem to have been discreet. 
I am, sir, your obedient servant, 

WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 
Lewis D. Campbell, Esq., fyc , fye., fyc. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 577 

No. 194. 
Mr. Campbell to Mr. Setvard. 

No. 4.] United States Steamer Susquehanna, 

At anchor off Verde Island, outside the 

Port of Vera Cruz, December 1, 1S66. 

Sir: I have the honor to report my arrival at this anchorage on the 29th 
ultimo, having left Havana on the afternoon of the 25th. 

Mr. Lane, our consul at this port, was on board with me here during the day 
yesterday. 

From him, and from other sources, I have gained the following information as 
to the state of affairs at this point, and, so far as is known here, with regard to 
the interior. 

Maximilian is still at Orizaba. His ministers, it is stated, are now there with 
him. He has not been in the city of Mexico since his departure from that 
place the last of October. 

It is generally understood that the functions of government in the city of 
Mexico are in the hands of Marshal Bazaine. 

At Orizaba and at this port the civil power appears, however, still to be exer- 
cised by so-called Maximilian authorities. 

Betweeu these and the Fr.ench there is evidently some disagreement, particu- 
larly with reference to the possession of the custom-house of this port. 

No French troops, so far as I can learn, were embarked at this port during 
the month of November nor for some time previous. There are but one or two 
transport vessels now here, and nothing transpiring that is obvious here, that 
indicates any preparations for the immediate withdrawal of any part of the 
French forces. 

It is said that they are being withdrawn from the interior and concentrated 
on the line from the city of Mexico to this port. From a French source I learn 
that the number of their troops now in this country is twenty-eight thousand. 

It is reported that Miramon and Marquez are with Maximilian at Orizaba, 
and that the government may be turned over to them as the representatives of 
the reactionary party. 

I am unable to obtain here any definite information as to the movements of 
President Juarez, but it seems to be the general impression that he is now in 
the neighborhood of the city of San Luis Potosi. The French forces have been 
withdrawn from that point, and there remained in that vicinity but a small Max- 
imilian force, which it is believed can interpose but little obstacle to the occupa- 
tion of that place by the forces of President Juarez. 

The harbor of Vera Cruz being in full and complete possession of the ene- 
mies of the republic, acting under your instructions, I do not deem it proper to 
land here. 

The French expeditionary forces having been concentrated on the line from 
this city to Mexico, it appears to me that this route is the very last that I should 
adopt iu seeking to establish communication with President Juarez. I should 
not feel authorized to accept, even if tendered to me, the good offices of those 
who are and have been for years in the attitude of enemies of the republic, in 
seeking to reach its President. 

I expect to receive positive information from our consul at Tampico, Mr. 
Chase, as to the situation at that point, by the English steamer which will be 
due from that port to-morrow. 

From all the information I can gather here, that port, and the line thence to 
San Luis Potosi, are in the undisturbed possession of the liberals. 

From my present information, therefore, it appears that there is no other 
37 mex. 



578 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

point on the coast from whence I can more speedily open communication with 
President Juarez than Tampico ; and unless some important fact is developed 
here within a delay of a few days, changing the aspect of affairs, I shall pro- 
ceed at once to that port and make an effort to reach the government of the 
republic at San Luis Potosi, or some other point in the interior in that direction. 
My anxiety to open communication with President Juarez as speedily as 
possible is enhanced by the fact that the condition of affairs may be such as 
to require some action on the part of Congress during its short session, and 
early and reliable information, therefore, cannot but be regarded as important 
by the department. 

I am, sir, very respectfully, your most obedient servant, 

LEWIS D. CAMPBELL. 
Hon. William H. Seward, 

Secretary of State, Washington. 



No. 195. 
Mr. Campbell to Mr. Seward. 

No. 5.] United States Steamer Susquehanna, 

Isla Verde, off Vera Cruz, December 1, 1866. 
Sir : I had just finished my despatch No. 4 to you of this date, when a boat 
came off to our consul, Mr. Lane, who is still on board, bringing the enclosed 
proclamation published this morning in Vera Cruz, which I have only time to 
send you without translation by this mail. 

From its tenor it appears that Maximilian has decided to remain in the 
country. 

A note from the office of the consulate to Mr. Lane states that Maximilian 
left Orizaba (it is supposed for the city of Mexico) last night. 
1 am, sir, very respectfully, your most obedient servant, 

LEWIS D. CAMPBELL. 
Hon. William H. Seward, 

Secretary of State, Washington. 



[Translation.] 
Long live the empire I — Long live the emperor ! 

Veracruzans: One of the most grateful events for good Mexicans has 
just occurred to the nation. 

His Majesty the emperor, who has made so many sacrifices for the welfare 
and happiness of our dear country, has given the best proof of the interest he 
takes in it. 

When overwhelmed by the natural feelings which were still contending and 
still are so in his mind, in consequence of the ill-health of his august and noble 
spouse our beloved sovereign, he thought for a moment that he ought tempo- 
rarily to abandon the country to devote himself to fulfilling the sacred duty of 
offering to his worthy consort the cares she so much needs in the delicate con- 
dition in which she is. The emperor sacrifices himself for us, postpones his 
duties as a man to those which his honor points out to him to be controlling, 
and in these critical moments, that the country may pass safely through, he 
solemnly declares that he will continue at the helm, and will contest without 
remission until the last drop of his blood be shed in defence of the nation. 

Veracruzans ! Let us rejoice ; let us give thanks to Providence for having 
saved the integrity of our territory, and with full outpouring of our hearts let 
us hail the day of the resurrection of our nationality, on the eve of disappearing. 

Vera Cruz, December 1, 1866. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 579 

No. 196. 

Mr. Seward to Mr. Campbell. 

No. 10.J Department of State, 

Washington, December 15, 1S66. 
Sir : I Lave to acknowledge the receipt of your despatches Nos. 4 and 5. 

The department approves of the matters contained in your No. 4. 
I am, sir, your obedient servant. 

WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 
Lewis D. Campbell, Esq., fy-c, §c, Sfc. 



No. 197. 
Mr. Seivard to Mr. Campbell. 

No. 7.] Department of State, 

Washington, December 6, 1866. 
Sir : I transmit for your information a copy of a telegram of the 3d instant, 
from Mr. Bigelow, at Paris, giving the substance of a note to him from the 
French minister for foreign affairs in regard to the military occupation of Mexico. 
From this it appears that the French troops will be withdrawn altogether from 
Mexico in March next. It does not seem necessary to modify the instructions 
heretofore sent to you. 

I am, sir, your obedient servant, 

WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 
Lewis D. Campbell, Esq., fyc, fyc., 8fc. 



Paris, December 3. 

In reply to a verbal communication, the minister for foreign affairs writes me 
to-day, "The resolutions of the French government are not changed, but, from 
military considerations, it has thought it ought to substitute a collective evacua- 
tion of Mexico for one by divisions ; and our force of occupation is to embark 
in the month of March next." I add that the French government is disposed to 
have an understanding with the United States, in view of possible events in 
Mexico. 

JOHN BIGELOW. 

The Secretary of State, Washington. 



No. 19 S. 
Mr. Campbell to Mr. Seivard. 

No. 6.] Brazos Santiago, December 13, 1S66. 

Sir : I have the honor to advise you that, not deeming it proper to enter the 
harbor of Vera Cruz, we left our anchorage off Green island (Isla Verde) on 
the evening of the 2d instant, and proceeded to Tampico, arriving at the bar 
off that port on the 4th. Meeting there the United States gunboat Paul 



580 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

Jones," Captain Fitzhugh commanding, we learned that the port was in pos- 
session of the liberals, and under orders from Commodore Alden that vessel 
conveyed Lieutenant General Sherman and myself, and our respective suites, 
across the bar and up to Tampico. On reaching the town, the boats of the 
officers of the port came off, and we were received and escorted on shore to the 
American consulate with much attention. 

During the evening we received visits from the principal civil and military 
authorities of the place, which were duly returned by us the following morning. 

Ascertaining that the information received at Vera Cruz, that the forces of 
the national government were in possession of the city of San Luis Potosi, 
was incorrect, and President Juarez was probably still at Chihuahua, we were 
forced to the conclusion that a speedy communication with him from that point 
could not be effected. It was therefore deemed best to forward to the minister 
of foreign affairs, Sellor Sebastian Lerdo de Tejada, a communication, copy of 
which is enclosed herewith, marked No. 1, advising him of our arrival in the coun- 
try and desire speedily to reach the seat of government of President Juarez ; which 
communication was placed in the hands of General Gomez, the chief military 
officer of the place, .who agreed to forward the same by special courier. 

We left Tampico on the afternoon of the 5th instant, and anchored off the 
bar of this port on the 7th. Here we learned of the presence of General Sheri- 
dan in Brownsville, and had an interview with him on his return from that place 
in the evening. From General Sheridan we learned that the national forces 
under General Escobedo were in full and complete possession of Matamoras. 

On the 8th we proceeded to Brownsville. On the 9th we crossed to Mata- 
moras and had a full and cordial interview with General Escobedo, commanding 
the national army of the north and representative of the government of the 
republic on this frontier. From him we learned that President Juarez would 
probably be in Monterey by the 20th instant. Acting upon this information, I at 
once determined to proceed to that point. This determination I communicated 
to Mr. Lerdo de Tejada by a special courier, despatched by General Escobedo 
that night. A copy of my communication is herewith attached, marked No. 2. 

On reaching Brownsville on the evening of the 8th, I received a polite note 
from General Escobedo, expressing his satisfaction at the arrival of the mission 
on this frontier. Copy of this note and translation, marked No. 3, is annexed 
hereto. Copy of my reply, also annexed, is marked No. 4. 

Having spent only a few hours in Tampico, and the same time in Matamoras, it 
would not be proper for me at this time to attempt to give any detailed informa- 
tion as to the general situation of affairs in the interior of the country, but all 
the information I have received, both at Tampico and from General Escobedo, 
appears to be highly favorable to the cause of the republic. The spirit of the 
national forces is undoubtedly excellent, but their progress is necessarily slow 
from the great disadvantages under which they labor for want of means. 

On the 12th instant we returned to this point, Brazos Santiago. 

Here I take leave of Commodore Alden of the Susquehanna, of whose uniform 
kindness and courtesy to myself and suite I desire to make special mention, 
and whose promptitude and unceasing vigilance as a naval officer cannot be too 
highly acknowledged. 

Lieutenant General Sherman does not deem it necessary to accompany me to 
Monterey, and leaves here in the Susquehanna. 

To-morrow it is my purpose to return to Matamoras, and thence to proceed 
without delay to Monterey. 

I am, sir, very respectfully, your most obedient servant, 

LEWIS D. CAMPBELL. 

Hon. William H. Seward, 

Secretary of State, Washington. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 581 

[Enclosure No. 1.] 

Tampico, December 5, 1866. 

Sir : I Lave the honor to advise you informally of my arrival at this point 
in the character of envoy extraordinary and minister plenipotentiary from the 
United States to the republic of Mexico, of which his excellency Don Btmito 
Juarez is President. 

Lieutenant General Sherman, of the United States army, accompanies me in 
my mission. 

We arrived here on the 4th instant in the United States steam frigate Sus- 
quehanna, Commodore Alden commanding. On our way here we anchored 
from noon on the 29th ultimo to the afternoon of the 2d instant at Green island, 
off the port of Vera Cruz. Finding that port in possession of the enemies of the 
Mexican republic we did not enter the harbor, and observing no prospect of a 
change in affairs there we came to this port, which we find is occupied by the 
forces of the constitutional government. 

For reasons which will be obvious to you, I regard it as of importance both 
to the government of President Juarez and of tne United States that I should 
speedily effect an official communication with him. 

The Congress of the United States is now in session, but, under our Consti- 
tution, will adjourn on the 4th of next March, and it is not probable that it will 
meet again until next December. Therefore, as the condition of affairs in Mex- 
ico and the continued occupation of its territory by the French may, in the 
judgment of the President, require congressional rather than executive action, it 
seems to me that I should present my letters of credence without unnecessary 
delay. For these reasons I address you this informal note by courier. 

As now advised I presume that the movements of your government are in 
this direction, and it has been suggested that President Juarez might, perhaps, 
establish the seat of his government temporarily at this place. This would 
greatly facilitate me in communicating official intelligence to my government as 
to the condition of affairs and the desires of President Juarez. 

If, however, the President has no intention of coming here, I desire to be ad- 
vised as early as possible as to the point in the interior at which and the time 
when I may probably have an opportunity of presenting my credentials. I 
shall await information from you on these points at this place or Brownsville, 
Texas, in company with Lieutenant General Sherman and Commodore Alden, 
and we will detain the Susquehanna and the United States gunboat Paul Jones 
until I hear from you. 

I am, sir, with great respect, most truly, your obedient servant, 

LEWIS D. CAMPBELL. 

His Excellency Don Sebastian Lbrdo de Tejada, 

Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Mexican Republic. 

P. S. — You will please send your reply to me to the care of Franklin Chase, 
esq., United States consul at this port, and duplicate copy of same to me, care 
commanding officer United States forces at Brownsville, Texas. 

LEWIS D. CAMPBELL. 



[Enclosure No. 2.] 

Brownsville, Texas, December 9, 1866. 
Sir : I enclose herewith a copy of a communication, duplicate copies of 
which I placed in the hands of General Gomez at Tampico, on the 5th instant. 
He promised to forward them to you by courier. 

I left Tampico in company with Lieutenant General Sherman on the 5th 



582 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

instant, and arrived here yesterday. To-day we have had an interview with 
General Escobedo, in Matamoras, and I have concluded to proceed to Monterey 
for the purpose of meeting President Juarez at that point. 

General Sherman will leave me here and proceed in the United States steam 
frigate Susquehanna to New Orleans to confer with our government at Wash- 
ington by telegraph. 

For many reasons not proper to he mentioned herein, I regard it as important 
to the cause of the republic that I should communicate with President Juarez 
at Monterey speedily, and I shall go there with the expectation of enjoying that 
honor at an early day. 

I am, sir, with great respect, your most obedient servant, 

LEWIS D. CAMPBELL. 
His Excellency Don Sebastian Lerdo de Tejada, 

Minister of Foreign Relations of the Republic of Mexico. 



[Enclosure No. 4.] 

Brownsville, December 8, 1866. 
General : I have the pleasure of acknowledging the receipt of your es- 
teemed favor of this date, and beg to express to you my acknowledgments for 
your polite attention. 

In company with Lieutenant General Sherman, I shall have the pleasure of 
waiting upon you in person, at your headquarters in Matamoras, at ten o'clock 
to-morrow. 

It is the earnest desire of the government of the United States that the re- 
public of Mexico, of which Don Benito Juarez is the recognized President, 
should speedily be acknowledged by all the nations of the earth as a stable 
and permanent nationality. 

The purpose of our mission is not to dictate or interfere with the free will of 
the people of Mexico in regard to the form of government that they shall adopt. 
I am, general, with the highest respect, your most attentive and obedient 
servant, 

LEWIS D. CAMPBELL. 
General Don Mariano Escobedo, 

General-in-Chief of the army of the north, and representative 

of the government of the republic of Mexico on this frontier, 

,. Matamoras. 



No. 199. 
Mr. Seward to Mr. Campbell. 

No. 11.] Department of State, 

Washington, December 27, 1866. 

Sir : I have to acknowledge the receipt of your despatch of December 13, 

No. 6. 

********* 

Your proceedings at Vera Cruz, Tampico, and Brownsville, as therein related, 
are approved. 

The information which you have given me is appreciated. With a reserva- 
tion, which I may take a more convenient occasion to mention, the President 
approves of the notes of which a copy is appended to your despatch. 
I am, sir, your obedient servant, 

WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 
Lewis D. Campbell, Esq., fyc, fyc., fyc. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 



583 



No. 200. 
Mr. Campbell to Mr. Seward. 
N -, New Orleans, December 24, 1866. 

Sir • Referring to my despatch No. 6, of the 13th instant, from .BnM 
Santiago I Sv^ow the honor to inform you that I left that place on the 16th 
inatant and reached Brownsville late the same evening. 

{MowS morning I received a note from General Escohedo, adv 1S mg 
me that he would be obliged to leave for the interior at once. 
" Copy and translation of the same is enclosed herewith, marked No. 1 

On the 18th I received, from a reliable source, information that liesiaent 
Ju^ez ema ned at Chihuahua as late as the 24th of November with no indx- 
Sns of a departure from that point, and that it was doubtful whether he 
would leave, and if he left, whether he would go to Monterey 

On the same day, ascertaining that Ortega had crossed the Rio Grande tiom 
the United SteteS into Mexico, and that probably Canales and Cortmas, with 
tLu forces, would nt?te against Escobedofl deemed it improper to proceed m 

the department since your instructions on setting out I deemed it prope to 
Sme to S point as speedily as possible, with a view of communicating directly 

^SgSSl SioS^f this determination by a note, a copy of 

Wl L tvt £&£^^ I Wed here, by way of Galveston, in the 

^wVentthfGnlf of Mexico I was overtaken by the United States gunboat 
Winooski, Captain Cooper commanding, bearing to me your despatch No. 4, ot 

th Capfam f C^falsVtnded to me a despatch from Mr # Lane, our consul at 
yX Enclosing a communication from Mr. Otterbourg, our consul at the 

^CopVof Mr.' Lane's despatch, which is of a late date, is herewith enclosed, 

ma in e ii N communication to me, Mr. Otterbourg enclosed a sealed communica- 
tion from Marshal Bazaine to Lieutenant General Sherman, which I have de- 

^Thfs^eaM^mmunication, without instructions from Washington, seemed 
to me to make it imperative on me to deliver it in person. harmful 

I consider my presence on the border of Mexico ummp ortant, if no ^imhi 
until the residence of the republican government under Juarez shall have ^heen 
definitely ascertained. I desire to avoid any complication of on fJJ**™*\ 
with the factions of the liberals, who seem now to be at war wi h e ch ot h^ 
therefore I will go back to Mexico or return to Washington for further instrnc 
tions, as the department may direct. 

I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient Bjut, ^ 0AMpBELL< 

Hon. William H. Seward, 

Secretary of State, Washington, D. G. 

[Enclosure No. 1.— Translation.] 

Matamoras, December 16, 1866. 

Sir • Urgent military duties have placed me under the necessity of not w- 
' maimVg in this city the time that I desired, in order not to deprive myself of 
the pleasing honor of awaiting your excellency. 



584 CONDITION OP AFFAIES IN MEXICO. 

But there will remain to represent me in this city the general of division, 
Felipe Berriozahal, military commandant of the district and chief of the line of 
the Rio Grande, in order to present anew to your excellency my respects. 

In addition, I have already given orders that there should he placed at the 
convenient points the escort which is to accompany your excellency, whom I 
hope to have the pleasure of seeing on the road or in the city of Monterey. 
I am, sir, with great respect, your most obedient servant, 

M. ESCOBEDO. 
His Excellency Hon. Lewis D. Campbell, 

Envoy Extraordinary and Minister Plenipotentiary 

of the United States of America. 



[Enclosure No. 2.] 

Brownsville, December 19, 1866. 
General : Circumstances have transpired which render it expedient that I 
should go over to Galveston or New Orleans to communicate with my govern- 
ment at Washington. 

This will require an absence of ten days or two weeks, and I must therefore 
postpone my intended trip to Monterey for that period. 

You will please communicate these facts to General Escobedo, with my 
thanks for his courtesies and kindness. 

I am, general, your very obedient servant, 

LEWIS D. CAMPBELL. 
General F. Berriozabal, 

Cominanding in Chief, Matamoras. 



[Enclosure No. 3.] 

Consulate of the United States of America, 

Vera Cruz, December 15, 1866. 

Sir : Yesterday the American gunboat Winooski put in here expecting to 
find you. As they have important despatches for and instructions to find you 
somewhere, I have thought it best to send by them what correspondence I have 
received since your departure — among them a despatch from Mr. Otterbourg, 
enclosing message from General Bazaine. I hope I do not err in sending them. 

The mail steamer from France arrived here on the 11th instant, bringing two 
hundred soldiers belonging to the foreign legion. The same day the steamer 
Florida arrived for the purpose of taking any French troops. 

Maximilian left Orizaba on the 12th instant for the city, it is said, but will 
make a stop at Cholula. With the present feeling existing between him and 
Bazaine I do not believe he dares to go to the city. 

Bazaine had Marquez and Miramon arrested, but the latter escaped, and has 
not yet been recaptured. 

It is said the priests have offered to raise Maximilian $15,000,000 and 36,000 
troops, 12,000 each under the command of Marquez, Miramon, and Marin. 

That the French are preparing to leave 1 cannot doubt, from present appear- 
ances ; still, I may be mistaken. 

When I got on shore from the Susquehanna I was met by the report that the 
prefect of this city, acting under orders from Maximilian, had commanded the 
Susquehanna to leave this port forthwith. I am sorry to say it was believed 
by many. When the news of her departure reached Orizaba the bells -were 
rung and the rabble shouted. There were heard vivas for Maximilian — groans 
and cries of death to the Americans and the French. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 585 

On Sunday last the French took forcible possession of the custom-house, 
turning out all the appointees of Maximilian, from collector down, and filling 
their places with French. 

I send you all the newspapers that have come to hand; also papers and 
proclamations of this country. 

The Winooski was very kindly and courteously treated by Admiral Clam. 

"With kind remembrances to all your party, yourself included, I have the 
honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, 



M. D. L. LANE. 



Hon. L. D. Campbell, United States 31i?iister, fyc 



No. 201. 

Mr. Seward to Mr. Campbell. 

No. 12.] Department of State, 

Washington, Decemb&r 29, 1866. 

Sir : Your despatch No. 7, of the 24th instant, has been received. The pro- 
ceedings to wbich it refers are approved. We adhere to the directions given 
you in the telegram of the 25th instant. 
I am, sir, your obedient servant, 



WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 



Lewis D. Campbell, Esq., fyc, fyc, fyc. 



No. 202. 

Mr. Campbell to Mr. Seward. 

Office United States Military Telegraph, 

Washington, D. C, December 24, 1866. 

[Telegram received at "War Department from New Orleans, December 24, ] 866 — time 5 p.m.] 
Hon. W. H. Seward, Secretary of State : 

Left Matamoras 19th ; Juarez still at Chihuahua November 24th ; Ortega 
gone on to Mexico ; Canales and Cortinas, with their followers, reported to have 
pronounced for Ortega. It is my deliberate judgment that I cannot soon com- 
municate with Juarez, and that my presence on the border does more harm than 
good. I learn by telegraph that my daughter is very ill ; will you permit me 
to return home, or report in person at Washington ? 

LEWIS D. CAMPBELL. 



No. 203. 

Mr. Seward to Mr. Campbell. 
[Telegram.] 

Department of State, 

Washington, December 25, 1S66. 

Lewis D. Campbell, Esq., fyc, fyc, fyc, New Orleans : 

Your despatch of 24th received. You are especially desired to remain in New 
Orleans until you receive further directions, after more definite intelligence from 
Mexico. Should you return home, however, on account of ill health in your 
family, you will be expected to return as early as possible to New Orleans. 

WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 



586 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

No. 204. 

Mr. Campbell to Mr. Seward. 
No. 8.] Nrw Orleans, December 31, 1866. 

Sir : I regard it proper to inform you of the facts brought to my knowledge 
of a flagrant wrong lately perpetrated on an American citizen by the authorities 
of the Mexican republic. These should have been imparted sooner, but, in the 
constant movements to which this legation has been subject by the embarrass- 
ments which have surrounded it, some of the papers bearing upon the affair 
were misplaced. 

On the 13th instant, after Lieutenant General Sherman and myself had re- 
turned from Matamoras — we were detained at Brazos Santiago by a storm, which 
had driven the Susquehanna and the Paul Jones to sea — a paper was pre- 
sented to us asking our interference to prevent a threatened outrage to the 
owner of the American schooner Mary Bertrand, that had lately been wrecked 
on the Mexican coast near Bagdad. The facts of this case were subsequently 
presented to me in a more formal and reliable manner by the papers herewith 
enclosed, marked Nos. 1, 2, and 3, to which your special attention is called. 

Not having opened any official communication with the government of Presi- 
dent Juarez, it seemed proper that I should refer the matter to Mr. Marshall, 
our consul at Matamoras. Accordingly a telegram was sent to him by Lieu- 
tenant General Sherman and myself, copy of which is enclosed, marked No. 4. 

Beceiving reliable information at Brazos Santiago, on the 15th, that the specie 
referred to had been actually seized by a military force, and that General Esco- 
bedo, who had represented himself to Lieutenant General Sherman and myself 
as the representative of the government of the republic on that frontier, had re- 
fused to interpose his authority for the protection of the rights of our shipwrecked 
mariners, I started from Brazos Santiago for Matamoras on the 16th, and arrived 
at Brownsville at eleven o'clock that night, with the view of having his attention 
more particularly called to the subject. On the following morning, before I had 
time to cross the river to Matamoras, I received the note from General Escobedo, 
(copy and translation of which were enclosed in my despatch from this place of 
the 24th instant,) who had agreed to await my arrival, informing me he would 
be obliged to leave at once for Monterey. 

I immediately despatched Mr. Plumb, the secretary of legation, to Matamoras, 
for the purpose, if possible, of seeing General Escobedo, and informally urging 
upon him the necessity of arranging the affair of the seized specie before his 
departure. On the arrival of Mr. Plumb, however, in Matamoras, at about eleven 
o'clock a. m., it was learned that General Escobedo had already left for the in- 
terior. 

The enclosed papers, stating the case, were immediately brought before Gen- 
eral Berriozabal, who had been left in command, by Mr. Marshall, and every 
possible effort used to procure the return of the specie to its owners, but without 
avail. The most that could be accomplished was an order from the judge that 
the money should be placed in our consul's hands until the claimant should pro- 
cure proof from Tampico that the specie had been properly cleared from that 
port, thus subjecting him to great inconvenience and expense, and depriving him 
of his rights for an indefinite period, if not to the entire loss of his property in 
the present revolutionary and turbulent condition of affairs at that point. 

The sudden departure of General Escobedo, (when it was known to him I 
had just arrived,) in connection with the seizure of this specie, seemed to me 
somewhat mysterious, if not positively suspicious. This impression was strength- 
ened by the fact that General Escobedo had agreed to wait, with his escort, for 
me, and had been fully apprised by both Lieutenant General Sherman and my- 
self of the friendly disposition of our government. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 587 

Having then established no official relations with the government, I could not 
further interpose with regard to this affair ; but it occurs to me, in view of the 
many complaints that are made by American citizens in that quarter, and espe- 
cially in view of the alleged wrongs inflicted by the liberal authorities, as repre- 
sented by Mr. Ulrich, the consul at Monterey, and others of that city, which 
were made the subject-matter of your despatch No. 2, of October 2 last, that I 
should call your special attention to this case. 

In presenting these facts to you, permit me respectfully to make the sug- 
gestion, that, from all I could learn, there is little disposition to respect our flag 
or the rights of our citizens in that region of Mexico. 

Such acts seem to me to be flagrant aggressions upon the principles of inter- 
national integrity and good will, if not positive violations of solemn treaty stipu- 
lations. At least they form some of the reasons why I do not feel disposed, 
until otherwise positively instructed by the department, to appear to obtrude 
hastily our "good offices " on that government, until its residence shall have 
been definitively established, and its authorities show, practically, some power 
and a greater disposition to enforce justice and to respect our flag. \ 
I am, sir, very respectfully, your most obedient servant, 

LEWIS D. CAMPBELL. 

Hon. William H. Seward, 

Secretary of State, Wasldngton, D. C. 



[Enclosure No. 1.] 

Brownsville, Texas, 

December 17, 1866. 

Sir: The undersigned, a citizen of the United State?, ha- the honor to ad- 
dress your excellency in regard to a seizure of his property by the authorities 
of the republic of Mexico, under circumstances which the undersigned cannot 
but consider as illegal and arbitrary. The facts are as follows : 

The undersigned, owner of the American schooner Mary Bertrand, cleared 
at the port of Tampico, Mexico, for Brazos Santiago, Texas, and set sail on the 
3d instant under the customary sea-papers, having on board twenty thousand 
dollars in silver, the property of the undersigned and others. The export per- 
mit for the silver on board was taken up by the proper officer, at the mouth of 
the Tamesi river, so that this paper did not remain on board. 

It is proper to state that the twenty thousand dollars referred to were the 
proceeds of a lot of arms and ammunition sold by the undersigned to the repub- 
lican Mexican authorities of Tampico, and that it was a condition of the sale, 
made to them by the undersigned, that the purchase-money should be allowed 
to leave the country under a free permit and exempt from duties. 

This condition was fulfilled by the authorities at Tampico, and the money 
was placed on board the Mary Bertrand by the Mexican customs officers of that 
port, with the necessary papers. 

Afterwards, on the ninth day of this month, the Mary Bertrand was wrecked 
in a storm, and cast upon the Mexican coast, a few miles below the mouth of 
the Rio Grande. The specie on board was taken ashore and hauled by the 
undersigned, as part of the wreck, and for greater safety, to Bagdad, at the 
mouth of the Rio Grande. 

While there, a party of Mexican soldiers, forming part of General Escobecla's 
command, attempted to take possession of the specie, whereupon the under- 
signed placed over it, for protection, a flag of the United States, and warned the 
officer commanding the soldiery that he should respect that safeguard and leave 
the money undisturbed. 

Notwithstanding this, the specie in question was, on Monday afternoon, De- 
cember 10, seized by the said» officer, and afterwards, on the 12th instant, the 



588 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

same was transmitted by him to Matamoras, where the customs authorities of 
that city now hold it. 

The undersigned has been unable to obtain any redress for the injury done 
to him by such illegal seizure, nor can he secure the possession of the specie to 
which he is entitled, and the undersigned fears that unless some action is taken 
in the premises by your excellency he will meet with a total loss of this money. - 

Therefore the undersigned earnestly appeals to your excellency for the pro- 
tection to which he believes himself entitled, and respectfully requests your in- 
terposition to prevent a great wrong from being inflicted on citizens of the 
United States who are interested herein. 

I am your excellency's most obedient servant, 

A. A. McGAFFEY. 
His Excellency Lewis D. Campbell, 

Minister Plenipotentiary and Envoy Extraordinary 

of the United States to the Republic of Mexico. 

The foregoing affidavit sworn to and subscribed before me this 19th day of 
December, A. D. 1866. 

Witness my hand and the seal of the district court in and for Cameron county, 
State' of Texas, being of the 12th judicial district of the same. 

rsEAL.l . s - powers, 

L ' J Judge of the 12th Judicial District of Texas. 



[Enclosure No. 2.] 
State of Texas, County of Cameron : 

Personally appeared before me, the undersigned authority, J. W. Tompkins, 
to me known, who being duly sworn, upon his oath doth declare and say that he 
is master of the American schooner Mary Bertrand, now totally a wreck on the 
coast of Mexico, a few miles below the mouth of the Rio Grande ; that she sailed 
from the port of Tampico, Mexico, on the 3d day of December, A.D. 1866, for the 
port of Brazos Santiago, in the county and State aforesaid; that he obtained 
from the customs officers at Tampico the usual clearance papers ; that there was, 
at the time of sailing from said port, twenty thousand silver dollars, in nine 
wooden boxes, the property of A. A. McGaffey and others — the same specie 
having been laden and put on board the said schooner hy the Mexican customs 
authorities of said port ; that the said authorities furnished affiant with the pro- 
per permit for the exportation of said specie, which was taken at the mouth of 
the Tamesi river by the proper officer as is usual at said port; that subsequently, 
to wit, on the 9th day of December, A. D. 1866, the said schooner Mary Bertrand 
was wrecked and cast away on the Mexican coast aforesaid, and the said specie 
was removed from on board and taken ashore, the schooner herself being a total 
wreck. 

J. M. TOMPKINS, Master. 

Sworn and subscribed before me this 17th day of December, 1866, at my office 
in Brownsville, Cameron county, Texas. 

r gEAL n EDWARD DOUGHERTY, 

Notary Public, Cameron County, Texas. 



[Enclosure No. 3.] 
State of Texas, County of Cameron : 

Personally appeared before me, the undersigned authority, Charles D. Stock- 
ing, to me known, who being duly sworn by me, upon his oath did declare and 
say, that he is an American citizen ; that on the 3d day of December, A. D. 1866, 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 589 

be left Tampico, in the republic of Mexico, for tbe port of Brazos Santiago, in 
county and State aforesaid, on hoard tbe American scbooner Mary Bertrand, 
J. B. Tompkins, master ; tbat previous to sailing tbe vessel was regularly cleared 
at tbe custom-bouse of the port of Tampico, and that the officers of the said 
custom-house did load and put on board tbe said Mary Bertrand twenty thou- 
sand dollars, contained in nine wooden boxes covered with grass matting ; tbat 
the said loading and putting on board of said specie by tbe said Mexican 
authorities was open and public and in view of the bystanders then and there 
being ; that tbe affiant knows that the said specie, thus being put on board the 
Mary Bertrand by the Mexican customs authorities of Tampico, was in payment 
of a lot of arms sold to the Mexican government by A. A. McGaffey, a citizen 
of tbe United States ; that subsequently, to wit, on tbe 9th clay of December, 1866, 
the said schooner Mary Bertrand was wrecked in a storm and cast upon the 
coast of Mexico a few miles below tbe mouth of the Bio Grande, and the said 
twenty thousand dollars were removed from on board to the shore. Afterwards 
the same were taken to Bagdad, as part of the wreck, for safety. Affiant fur- 
ther declares, that the Mexican authorities have seized the said specie and have 
now possession thereof. 

CHARLES D. STOCKING. 

Sworn and subscribed before me at my office in the city of Brownsville, on 
the 17 tli day of December, A. D. 1866. 

r SBAL] EDWARD DOUGHERTY, 

L ■■' Notary Public, Cameron County, Texas. 



[Enclosure No. 4. — Telegram.] 

Brazos Santiago, December 13, 1S66. 

To tbe U. S. Consul, Mat amor as : 

Sir : Representations have just been made to us tbat nine cases of silver, said 
to contain eighteen thousand dollars, the property of an American citizen, reg- 
ularly cleared from Tampico for this port, and wrecked near Bagdad, and there 
placed by tbe owner in the safe-keeping of the agent of King, Kennedy & 
Co., are sought to be taken possession of from tbe owner and his agents by the 
collector of Bagdad, supported by an armed force, claiming to act under authority. 
It is stated that forcible possession of the same would be taken last night, not- 
withstanding the protest of the owner and his agents. 

You will please call tbe immediate attention of General Escobedo to this mat- 
ter, that the proper orders may be given, if the facts are as above represented. 
Respectfully, your obedient servants, 

LEWIS D. CAMPBELL. 
W. T. SHERMAN", 

Lieutenant General U. S. A. 



No. 205. 
Mr. Seward to Mr. Campbell. 

No. 14] Department of State, 

Washington, January 14, 1867. 
Sir: I have received your despatch No. 8, of the 31st ultimo, concerning the 
seizure, by some liberal forces under General Escobedo, of a sum amounting to 
about twenty thousand dollars in silver, belonging to A. A. McGatfey and others, 
citizens of the United States. Your letter on the subject to tbe consul at Mat- 
amoras is approved. 



590 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

As the money is now in his hands, there would seem to be no difficulty in the 
way of its restitution to the owners after they shall have obtained and presented 
to the consul the requisite proof of its having been properly cleared from Tam- 
pico. 

I am, sir, your obedient servant, 

WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 
Lewis D. Campbell, Esq., fyc, fyc, fyc, New Orleans. 



No. 19. 

CORRESPONDENCE ON THE MEXICAN QUESTION WITH LEGATIONS OF 
THE UNITED STATES IN EUROPE. 

List of papers. 

ENGLAND. 

206. Mr. Seward to Mr. Adams Dec. 21, 1864. 

207. Same to same * Feb. 7, 1865. 

208. Mr. Adams to Mr. Seward Feb. 9, 1865. 

209. Same to same Feb. 17, 1865. 

210. Same to same *. Feb. 23, 1865. 

211. Mr. Seward to Mr. Adams March 25, 1S65. 

212. Mr. Adams to Mr. Seward June 2, 1865. 

FRANCE. 

213. Mr. Dayton to Mr. Seward March 25, 1864. 

214. Mr. Seward to Mr. Dayton April 7, 1864. 

215. Mr. Seward to Mr. Bigelow Feb. 13, 1865. 

216. Mr. Bigelow to Mr. Seward March 10, 1865. 

217. Same to same March 17, 1865. 

218. Mr. Seward to Mr. Bigelow March 27, 1805. 

219. Same to same March 30, 1865. 

220. Mr. Bigelow to Mr. Seward April 17, 1S65. 

221. Mr. Hunter to Mr. Bigelow Oct. 19, 1865. 

222. Mr. Seward to Mr, Bigelow Oct. 30, 1865. 

AUSTRIA. 

223. Mr. Motley to Mr. Seward Feb. 13, 1865. 

224. Same to same Feb. 26, 1865. 

225. Mr. Motley to Mr. Hunter June 5, 1865. 

PRUSSIA. 

226. Mr. Wright to Mr. Seward Nov. 15, 1865. 

BELGIUM. 

227. Mr. Sanford to Mr. Seward Feb. 1, 1865. 

228. Same to same March 13, 1865. 

229. Same to same i April 12, 1865. 

230. Same to same May 29, 1865. 

231. Same to same May 31, 1865. 

ITALY. 

232. Mr. Marsh to Mr. Hunter May 15, 1865. 

233. Samo to same . „ June 5, 1865. 

234. Same to same June 29, 1865. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 591 



ROME. 



235. Mr. King to Mr. Seward March 4, 1S65. 

236. Same to same April 22, 1S65. 

237. Same to same May 24, 1S65. 

K38. Mr. King to Mr. Hunter June 2, 1865. 



NETHERLANDS. 



239. Mr. Pike to Mr. Hunter May 17, 1865. 

240. Mr. Pike to Mr. Seward Oct. IS, 1865. 



SWEDEN AND NORWAY 



24J . Mr. Campbell to Mr. Seward Sept. 27, 1864. 

242. Same to same Nov. 5, 1864. 

243. Same to same Dec. 13, 1864. 

244. Mr. Seward to Mr. Campbell Jan. 10, 1S65. 

TURKEY. 

245. Mr. Morris to Mr. Seward March 29, 1865. 

246. Mr. Morris to Mr. Hunter May IS, 1S65. 

247. Same to same May 25, 1865. 

24S. Mr. Seward to Mr. Morris Sept. 21, 1S65. 

249. Mr. Morris to Mr. Seward Oct. 29, 1S65. 

EGYPT. 

250. Mr. Hale to Mr. Seward Aug. 26, 1S65. 

251. Mr. Seward to Mr. Hale Sept. 21, 1S65. 

252. Mr. Hale to Mr. Seward # . . . Oct. 27, 1S65. 

253. Same to same Nov. 13, 1S65. 

254. Same to same Nov. IS, 1S65. 

255. Mr. Seward to Mr. Hale Nov. 27, ] S65. 

256. Mr. Hale to Mr. Seward Nov. 27, 1S65. 

MOROCCO. 

257. Mr. Perry to Mr. Seward Dec. 17, 1S64. 



GREAT BPtlTAIN. 

No. 206. 
Mr. Seward to Mr. Adams. 

No. 1199.] Department of State, 

Washington, December 21, 1S64. 
Sir : I enclose for your information a copy of a despatch of the 12th ultimo, 
No. 20S, from Charles A. Leas, esq., the United States commercial agent at 
Belize, in regard to a recent proclamation of Prince Maximilian affecting the 
British settlement in the Honduras, aud relating also to other features of politi- 
cal affairs in that quarter and the West Indies. 
I am, sir, your obedient servant, 

WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 
Charles Francis Adams, Esq., Sfc., $*•., 8p. 

[For the enclosure to this letter, see House Ex. Doe. No. 73, 39th Congress, 
1st session, Part II, page 413.J 



592 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

No. 207. 

Mr. Seward to Mr. Adams. 

No. 1258.] Department of State, 

Washington, February 7, 1865. 

Sir : It is a truism that in times of .peace there are always instigators of war- 
So soon as a war hegins, there are citizens who impatiently demand negotiations 
for peace. The advocates of war, after an agitation longer or shorter, generally 
gain their fearful end, though the war declared is not unfrequently unnecessary 
and unwise. So peace agitators, in time of war, ultimately bring about an 
abandonment of the conflict — sometimes without securing the advantages which 
were originally expected from the conflict. 

The agitators for war in time of peace, and for peace in time of war, are not 
necessarily, or perhaps ordinarily, unpatriotic in their purposes or motives. 
Results alone determine whether they are wise or unwise. The treaty of peace 
concluded at Guadalupe Hidalgo was secured by an irregular negotiator under 
the ban of the government. Some of the efforts which have been made to bring 
about negotiations with a view to end our civil war are known to the whole 
world, because they have employed foreign as well as domestic agents. Others, 
with whom you have had to deal confidentially, are known to yourself, although 
they have not publicly transpired. Other efforts have occurred here, which are 
known only to the persons actually moving in them, and to this government. I 
am now to give you, for your information, an account of an affair of the same 
general character, which recently received much attention here, and which 
doubtless will excite inquiry abroad. 

A few days ago Francis P. Blair, esq., of Maryland, obtained from the Presi- 
dent a simple leave tffc pass through our military lines, without definite views 
known to the government. Mr. Blair visited Richmond, and on his return he 
showed to the President a letter which Jefferson Davis had written to Mr. 
Blair, in which Davis wrote that Mr. Blair was at liberty to say to President 
Lincoln that Davis was now, as he had always been, willing to send commis- 
sioners, if assured they would be received, or to receive any that should be 
sent ; that he was not disposed to find obstacles in forms. He would send com- 
missioners to confer with the President with a view to a restoration of peace 
between the two countries if he could be assured they would be received. The 
President thereupon, on the 18th of January, addressed a note to Mr. Blair, in 
which the President, after acknoAdedging that he had read the note of Mr. 
Davis, said that he was, is, and always should be willing to receive any agent 
that Mr. Davis or any other influential person now actually resisting the 
authority of the government might send to confer informally with the President 
with a view to the restoration of peace to the people of our one common country. 
Mr. Blair visited Richmond with his letter, and then again came back to Wash- 
ington. On the 29th instant we were advised from the camp of Lieutenant 
General Grant, that Alexander H. Stephens, R. M. T. Hunter, and John A. 
Campbell were applying for leave to pass through the lines to Washington as 
peace commissioners to confer with the President. They were permitted by the 
Lieutenant General to come to his headquarters to await there the decision of the 
President. Major Eckert was sent down to meet the party from Richmond at 
General Grant's headquarters. The major was directed to deliver to them a 
copy of the President's letter to Mr. Blair, with a note to be addressed to them 
and signed by the major, in which they were directly informed that if they 
should be allowed to pass our lines, they would be understood as coming for an 
informal conference upon the basis of the aforenamed letter of the 18th of Jan- 
uary to Mr. Blair. If they should express their assent to this condition in 
writing, then Major Eckert was directed to give them safe conduct to Fortress 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 593 

Monroe, where a person coming from the President would meet them. It being 
thought probable, from a report of their conversation with Lieutenant General 
Grant, that the Richmond party would, in the manner prescribed, accept the con- 
dition mentioned, the Secretary of State was charged by the President with the 
duty of representing this government in the expected informal conference. The 
Secretary arrived at Fortress Monroe in the night of the ,1st day of February. 
Major Eckert met him in the morning of the 2d of February with the informa- 
tion that the persons who had come from Richmond had not accepted in writing 
the condition upon which he was allowed to give them conduct to Fortress 
Monroe. The major had given the same information by telegraph to the Presi- 
dent at Washington. On receiving this information, the President prepared a 
telegram directing the Secretary to return to Washington. The Secretary was 
preparing at the same moment to so return without waiting for instructions from 
the President. But at this juncture Lieutenant General Grant telegraphed to 
the Secretary of War, as well as to the Secretary of State, that the party from 
Richmond had reconsidered and accepted the conditions tendered them through 
Major Eckert; and General Grant urgently advised the President to confer 
in person with the Richmond party. Under these circumstances, the Secretary, 
by the President's direction, remained at Fortress Monroe, and the President 
joined him there on the night of the 2d of February. The Richmond party was 
brought down the James river in a United States steam transport during the 
day, and the transport was anchored in Hampton Roads. 

On the morning of the 3d the President, attended by the Secretary, received 
Messrs. Stephens, Hunter, and Campbell on board the United States steam 
transport River Queen, in Hampton Roads. The conference was altogether in- 
formal. There was no attendance of secretaries, clerks, or other witnesses. 
Nothing was written or read. The conversation, although earnest and free, was 
calm, and courteous, and kind on both sides. The Richmond party approached 
the discussion rather indirectly, and at no time did they either make categori- 
cal demands, or tender formal stipulations or absolute refusals. Nevertheless, 
during the conference, which lasted four hours, the several points at issue 
between the government and the insurgents were distinctly raised, and dis- 
cussed fully, intelligently, and in an amicable spirit. What the insurgent party 
seemed chiefly to favor was a postponement of the question of separation, upon 
which the war is waged, and a mutual direction of efforts of the government, as 
well as those of the insurgents, to some extrinsic policy or scheme for a season, 
during which passions might be expected to subside, and the armies be reduced, 
and trade and intercourse between the people of both sections resumed. It was 
suggested by them that through such postponement we might now have imme- 
diate peace, with some not very certain prospect of an ultimate satisfactory 
adjustment of political relations between this government and the States, section, 
or people now engaged in conflict with it. 

This suggestion, though deliberately considered, was nevertheless regarded 
by the President as one of armistice or truce, and he announced that we can 
agree to no cessation or suspension of hostilities, except on the basis of the dis- 
bandment of the insurgent forces, and the restoration of the national authority 
throughout all the States in the Union. Collaterally, and in subordination to 
the proposition which was thus announced, the anti-slavery policy of the United 
States was reviewed in all its bearings, and the President announced that he 
must not be expected to depart from the position he had heretofore assumed in 
his proclamation of emancipation and other documents, as these positions were 
reiterated in his last annual message. It was further declared by the President 
that the complete restoration of the national authority everywhere was an indis- 
pensable condition of any assent on our part to whatever form of peace might be 
proposed. The President assured the other party that, while he must adhere 
to these positions, he would be prepared, so far as power is lodged with the 
38 MEX. 



594 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

Executive, to exercise liberality. His power, however, is limited by tbe Con- 
stitution ; and when peace should be made, Congress must necessarily act in 
regard to appropriations of money and to the admission of representatives from 
the insurrectionary States. The Richmond party were then informed that 
Congress had, on the 31st ultimo, adopted by a constitutional majority a joint 
resolution submitting to the several States the proposition to abolish slavery 
throughout the Union, and that there is every reason to expect that it will be 
soon accepted by three-fourths of the States, so as to become a part of the 
national organic law. 

The conference came to an end by mutual acquiescence, without producing an 
agreement of views upon the several matters discussed, or any of them. Never- 
theless, it is perhaps of some importance that we have been able to submit our 
opinions and views directly to prominent insurgents, and to hear them in answer 
in a courteous and not unfriendly manner. 
I am, sir, your obedient servant, 

WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 

Charles Francis Adams, Esq., §c., Sfc, Sfc. 



[No. 208.J 

Mr. Adams to Mr. Seward. 

No. 871.] Legation of the United States, 

London, February 9, 1865. 

Sir : The rebels are so fruitful of schemes of all sorts, and are so apt to be 
elated by the very last one, notwithstanding all preceding it have failed, that your 
communication in your despatch No. 1245, of the 23d of January, did not sur- 
prise me. The theory broached in the article of the Richmond Sentinel is not 
novel in my experience in London. I saw it long ago gravely put forth in the 
columns of an evening paper, as communicated by a correspondent by the name 
of Cowell; and it has, from time to time, been brought up in the editorial de- 
partment ever since. The Richmond correspondent of the Times tried it once 
in that paper. It has made no impression whatever. The device will go the 
way of its thousand and one predecessors, to oblivion. I was gravely informed 
the other day that it was reported to be a notion held by Lord Russell. If so, 
he has taken good care to give no hint of it either in his language or his action. 
Whatever he may hold as a theory, I have some reason from him to believe 
that he does not expect that it or anything far stronger will avail the insur- 
gents for long. 

There has been another rumor started since, which has been used for a few 
days to sustain the public confidence in the cotton loan. This is connected with 
the appearance of Mr. Gwin in Mexico, and the story that he was to be the 
viceroy of the Emperor Napoleon, who was to receive from Maximilian the ces- 
sion of the northern States. 

The hope here has been that this news, when circulated in the United States, 
may prompt some hasty and violent conduct in Congress or among the people 
which will embroil us with the French nation. Of course you will receive more 
accurate information with respect to this matter from the proper source in France 
than I can give. But my conviction is that it is a bugbear worked out of the 
usual thin materials. 

The capacity of these men for the intriguing portion of politics is marvellous. 
I have the honor to be, sir, your obedient servant, 

CHARLES FRANCIS ADAMS. 

Hon. William H. Seward, fyc., fy-c, Sfc. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 595 

[No. 209.] 

Mr. Adams to Mr. Seward. 

No. 880.1 Legation of the United States, 

London, February 17, 1865. 

Sir : Owing to the delay in the arrival of the Canada, I only, late yesterday, 
received from the department the despatches numbered from 1247 to 1255, in- 
elusive. ******** 

The news of a probability of peace, which came by the steamer Canada, 
spread consternation everywhere. The funds fell, the cotton market was paral- 
vzed, and nothing in the city showed animation except the cotton bends and the 
United States stocks. There is a singular delusion prevailing here, that no 
pacification will be made without a recognition of the confederate loan. 

The effect seems to have been much the same at Paris, excepting that the 
cause of panic was different. There, it was the rumor of the Monroe doctrine 
being made the basis of union, which is construed as hostility to the French in- 
fluence in Mexico. 

Fortunately for the nerves of all parties, the Canadian steamer came in the 
very next day, with the quieting intelligence that no result had been arrived at. 
I have the honor to be, sir, your obedient servant, 

CHARLES FRANCIS ADAMS. 

Hon. William H. Seward, 

Secretary of State, Washington, D. C. 



No. 210. 

Mr. Adams to Mr. Seward. 

No. 884.] Legation of the United States, 

London, February 23, 1865. 
Sir: I have just come from an interview with Lord Russell. He w r as un- 
well, and received me at his own house. I had asked it for two purposes. One 
of these was to communicate to him the substance of your despatch No. 1258, 
and especially to point out to him that portion of it relating to the intimation 
given by the rebel commissioners of some device to unite the sentiment of both 
sides on an object not defined, yet not difficult to be conceived. The morning's 
newspapers, however, contain, among the other intelligence from America, the 
whole of that despatch as furnished to Congress by the President. I therefore 
contented myself with a reference to the Times, w r hich his lordship had not yet 
read, and particularly to the passage alluded to, as exemplifying the intriguing 
nature of the rebel operations. They endeavor to sow distrust between us and 
foreign powers by proposing on the one side, as a measure of conciliation, the 
adoption of a policy which may be inferred to be hostile to them in America, 
whilst on the other they seek aid and co-operation from them by offering to 
place themselves in the breach against that same policy which they boldly im- 
pute exclusively to us. 

The other object of my interview related to the contents of your No. 1256. 
* * * * % * 

I have the honor to be, sir, your obedient servant, 

CHARLES FRANCIS ADAMS, 
Hon. William H. Seward, 

Secretary of State, Washington, D. C. 



596 CONDITION OF AFFAIES IN MEXICO. 

No. 211. 

Mr, Seward to Mr. Adams. 

No. 1320.] Department of State, 

"Washington, Marcli 25, 1S65. 

Sir : Your despatch of the 9th of March, No. 8S9, has been received. 

After collating the speculations of the London Times (to which you have 
directed my attention) with similar utterances which have been made in Paris, 
I think I understand the object of the authors. 

When the news of our late successes arrived in Europe, accompanied by 
exaggerated and perverted statements concerning the conference held at Hamp- 
ton Koads, it was apprehended that a peace would be hurriedly made by agree- 
ment. Neither British commercial interests nor the interests of large political 
parties in Great Britain could accommodate themselves all of a sudden to the 
cessation of the strife. French politicians thought that the political situation 
in Mexico would be embarrassed by so sudden and abrupt a termination of our 
civil war. It must, therefore, be protracted, if possible; and if not, the time must 
be improved to prepare the European mind for the end. I do not think the 
strategy is of any serious importance. The war will come to an end neither the 
sooner nor the later 'for all that European politicians may think or wish about 
it, unless there is actual intervention; and that we do not expect to occur. 
Factious European combinations to embarrass will not affect results depending 
upon military and political agencies existing here. In the last twelve days I 
have seen six hundred deserters, veteran soldiers from Lee's army, pass up the 
avenue to the provost marshal's office and take the oath of allegiance to the 
United States. The war will come to its end because the rebels are weary of 
it, but not so soon as we and they wish, or as the enemies of our common 
country in Europe fear that it will. 

I am, sir, yoiu- obedient servant, 

WILLIAM H. SEWAB.D- 

Obarles Francis Adams. Esq., Sfc., §*c., §v. 



No. 212. 

jlr. Adams to 3Ir. Hunter. 
No. 975.] Legation of the United States, 

London, June 2, 1S65. 

Sir : Within a couple of weeks there has been a singular attempt at a renewal 

of the panic in regard to the designs of our government which made the subject 

of my despatches some time ago. 

^f. * % # * * 

If I am right in my statement, it is not, perhaps, unfair to infer here the pres- 
ence of three threads of influence combined in one cord of intrigue : The first, 
that of the indefatigable rebel emissaries ; the second, that of French-Mexican- 
ism under imperial shelter; the third, that of aristocratic British sympathy with 
the rebellion. 

I shall probably have occasion for some time to come to notice and expose 
similar schemes. While but little disposed to attach importance to them, or to 
believe in any chances of their success, I think it my duty to continue to trans- 
mit to you the information, in order that you may be placed on your guard and 
hold in your hands at all times the means of counteracting the false impression? 
attempted here by such devices. 

I have the honor to be, sir, your obedient servant, 

CHARLES FRANCIS ADAMS. 

William Hunter, Esq., 

Acting Secretary of State, Washington, D. C. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 597 

FRANCE. 

Xo. 213. 

Mr. Dayton to Mr. Seward. 

No. 442.] Paris, March 25, 1S64. 

Sir: Mr. Drouyn de Lhuys informed me yesterday that the negotiation for a 
loan in hehalf of Maximilian, as emperor of Mexico, had been completed on 
favorable terms, and that he would sad for Mexico on Snnday next. 

I regret to learn by the communication you enclosed to me that the power of 
Mexico is still further enfeebled by faction and division among themselves. 
There is nothing in the present condition of things there to justify a hope that 
the republicans of that country can successfully meet the French invading force, 
aided by factionists at home, and any action at present in that direction by the 
United States would be sure to embroil us "with France. We cannot, under 
existing circumstances, afford a war with France for the quixotic purpose of 
helping Mexico. "Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof." 
I am, sir, your obedient servant. 



WILLIAM L, DAYTON 



Hon. William H. Seward, 

Secretary of State, Sp., Sfc., fyc. 



Xo. 214. 



Mr. Seward to Mr. Dayton. 

Xo. 525.] Department of State. 

Washington, April 7, 1S64. 

Sir : I have received your despatch of March 25, Xo. 442, which informs me 
of the completion of the loan to the Grand Duke Maximilian, and of his antici- 
pated embarcation for Mexico. In order that you may understand the condition 
of affairs in that country, as fully as they are understood here, I have given you 
a copy of a communication which has lately been received from our consul at 
Matamoras. 

I give you also, for your information, a copy of a note which has been received 
from Mr. Geofroy on the subject of the protection which was extended to the 
consul at that place by Major General Herron, and of my answer to that paper. 
This correspondence embraces some other incidental subjects. It is proper to 
say that Mr. Geofroy proposes to communicate to me a statement of another 
distinct subject of complaint, in regard to proceedings on the frontier, under 
instructions from Mr. Drouyn de Lhuys, and that I have engaged to bestow 
due consideration upon it. 

I send you a copy of a resolution which passed the House of Representatives 
on the 4th instant, by a unanimous vote, and which declares the opposition of 
that body to a recognition of a monarchy in Mexico. Mr. Geofroy has lost no 
time in asking for an explanation of this proceeding. 

It is hardly necessary, after what I have heretofore written with perfect can- 
dor for the information of France, to say that this resolution truly interprets the 
unanimous sentiment of the people of the United States in regard to Mexico. 
It is, however, another and distinct question, whether the United States would 
think it necessary or proper to express themselves in the fonn adopted by the 
House of Representatives at this time. Tbis i- a practical and purely executive 



598 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

question, and the decision of it constitutionally belongs, not to the House of 
Representatives, nor even to Congress, but to the President of the United 
States. You will, of course, take notice that the declaration made by the House 
of Representatives is in the form of a joint resolution, which, before it can ac- 
quire the character of a legislative act, must receive first the concurrence of the 
Senate, and, secondly, the approval of the President of the United States ; or, in 
case of his dissent, the renewed assent of both houses of Congress, to be ex- 
pressed by a majority of two-thirds of each body. "While the President receives 
the declaration of the House of Representatives with the profound respect to 
which it is entitled, as an expression of its sentiments upon a grave and im- 
portant subject, he directs that you inform the government of France that he 
does not at present contemplate any departure from the policy which this govern- 
ment has hitherto pursued in regard to the war which exists between France 
and Mexico. It is hardly necessary to say that the proceeding of the House 
of Representatives was adopted upon suggestions arising within itself, and not 
upon any communication of the executive department, and tbat the French 
government would be seasonably apprised of any change of policy upon this 
subject which the President might at any future time think it proper to adopt. 
I am, sir, your obedient servant, 

WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 
William L. Dayton, Esq., fyc., fyc., fyc. 



Accompaniments : 

Mr. Geofroy to Mr. Seward, April 3, 1S64. 

Mr. Seward to Mr. G-eofroy, April 6, 1864. 

Resolutions of House of Representatives, April 4, 1864. 



No. 215. 

Mr. Seward to Mr. Bigclow. 

No. 43.] Department of State, 

Washington, February 13, 1S65. 

Sir : I transmit a copy of a despatch, and of its accompaniments, of the 223. 
of November last, addressed to this department by F. B. Elmer, esq., United 
States consul at La Paz, in Mexico, relative to the removal of powder from the 
United States schooner William L. Richardson, while on a voyage from San 
Francisco to the mouth of the Colorado river, by the commander of the French 
war steamer Diamant. The powder referred to is shown by the papers to have 
been consigned to Paul Heller, at Tucson, in Arizona Territory, and is alleged 
to have been intended for mining purposes in that Territory. 

The belligerent right of the French to prevent contraband of war from reach- 
ing Mexican territory during the existence of hostilities in that country may be 
conceded. That right, however, cannot be allowed to interfere with perfect free 
trade in all commodities between ports of the United States. You will conse- 
quently present this case to Mr. Drouyn de Lhuys, and in your note upon the 
subject you will say that, if the facts should, upon investigation, turn out to be 
as set forth in the papers, the value of the powder, and such other reparation 
as the case may call for, will be expected by this government. 
I am, sir, your obedient servant, 

WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 

John Bigelow, Esq., fye., Sp., fyc. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO 599 

[Enclosure No. 1. — Extract.] 
Mr. Elmer to Mr. Seward. 

No. S.J United States Consulate, 

La Paz, Mexico, Xovember 22, 1S64. 

Sir : I have the honor herewith to transmit the affidavit of George Goodrunir 
master of the schooner William L. Richardson, of San Francisco, concerning 
what I heg leave to express the hope that the government will decide to have 
been a violation of the rights of neutrals, and a case where ample reparation 
must he demanded. 

I have satisfied myself, after a careful inquiry, that the powder was not to be 
landed upon the Mexican coast, and was -shipped in good faith for a person 
living at Tucson, Arizona Territory. 

Should any other testimony than that contained in the accompanying affida- 
vit be required, I shall be able to forward it, as I have corroborating evidence 
on file, to be forwarded if called for. 

I have retained a copy of the bill of lading, from which I extract the follow- 
ing as pertinent : " Shipped in good order and condition, by J. Underbill <Sc 
Company, on board the schooner called the William L. Richardson, whereof 
George Goodrum is master, now lying in the port of San Francisco, and bound 
for the anchorage at the mouth of the Colorado river, to say, one hundred kegs 
powder, marked and numbered as in the margin, to wit : 'M. A. D., care J. 
Capron, Tucson, A. T.' Freight on same, fifty dollars." 

I also examined the manifest, and found the entry as stated in Mr. Good- 
rum's affidavit. The powder was entered as such and consigned in the manner 
stated. 

I also transmit an exact copy of the certificate given by the Frenchman in 
his own language ; also a translated copy. 



Very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

Hon. William H. Seward, 

Secretary of State, Washington City. 



F. B. ELMER, Consul. 



[Enclosure No. 2,] 
Deposition of George Goodrum. 

Consulate of the United States of America, 

La Paz, Mexico, Xovember 2, 1S64. 

On this second day of November, A. D. 1S64, before me, the undersigned, 
consul of the United States of America for La Paz and the dependencies 
thereof, there personally appeared George Goodrum, master of the American 
schooner William L. Richardson, and made oath in due form of law that the 
following is a true and faithful transcript of the entries in the log-book of said 
vessel for the period embraced therein ; that they were written by his first offi- 
cer, at his dictation and under his observation, and that the same is a true and 
faithful record of the proceedings occurring as therein detailed. 

The following is the transcript : 

"October 30, at 1.30 p. m., on entering the bay of La Paz, we were fired 
upon by the French war steamer Diamant. We hove our vessel to and set our 
colors, when an officer from the steamer came on board and demanded our papers, 
which were shown to him by Captain Goodrum. The officer looked at them 
for a short time, and then said he would take them on board his own vessel, 



600 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

Captain Goodrum told him he could not let his papers go, and protested against 
his taking them. The officer said it was all right, and retained them. He then 
ordered us to take in sail, and said he would take us in tow. The officer then 
went on hoard his own vessel and steered for Pichilque island, about eight 
miles from La Paz and within the bay, where he came to anchor and ordered 
us to do the same, which order we were compelled to comply with. 

" The officer then returned on board our vessel with the papers and demanded 
the one hundred kegs of blasting powder that were down on the coasting mani- 
fest and cleared from San Francisco for the Colorado river. The officer imme- 
diately sent his men into the hold and took out the powder, against which Captain 
Goodrum protested. The officer then took the powder from our vessel to his 
own, and sent word that we might go on to La Paz. 

"Before leaving, the officer gave the captain two certificates — one in French 
and the other English, the latter reading as follows : 

" ' Bay of La Paz, October 30, 1864. 
" 'This is to certify that the one hundred kegs of powder shipped in San 
Francisco, on the schooner Win. L. Kichardson, to be delivered to Paul Heller, 
at Fort Yuma, Colorado river, is on this day taken from the vessel by the officer 
in command of the French war steamer Diamant, and confiscated as contraband 
of war, and against the protest of the captain, George Goodrum. 

" < A. DE LA COUVE, 

"'// Officer de Service: " 

And further says that the Win. L. Richardson was detained by the French 
steamer some twenty-two hours, besides being delayed two days more in conse- 
quence thereof; that the Diamant remained off the harbor of La Paz till the 
morning of the first of November, and then left. 

And further makes oath and says that said powder was placed on board his 
vessel, as he believes, in good faith, and that it was his intention, in accordance 
with his instructions and bill of lading, to deliver the same on board the steam- 
boat Esmeralda, in the Colorado river, some miles above its mouth, to be con- 
veyed thence to the consignee thereof, Paul Heller, at Tucson, within the 
Territory of Arizona ; that the Wm. L. Richardson is one of a line of vessels 
contracted for by Messrs. Wadsworth & Son, of Alta California, to run between 
the ports of San Francisco, La Paz, Baja, California, and the station within the 
Rio Colorado, near its mouth, whence passengers and freight for the Territories 
of Arizona and New Mexico are conveyed as aforesaid, by the steamboat Esme- 
ralda, tc Fort Yuma, and to points beyond ; that at the time the gun was fired 
on board the French man-of-war, he was entering the port of La Paz to discharge 
some ninety tons of freight before proceeding to the mouth of the Colorado to 
discharge the remainder of his cargo, and was wholly innocent of any design to 
infringe, or to permit any other, through his agency, to infringe any belligerent 
regulations, and that no blockade of the harbor of La Paz existed within his 
knowledge, nor had any notice ever been given that such a thing was contem- 
plated. 

He further says that the said powder was entered as such in the usual and 
proper manner upon the Colorado river manifest. 

GEORGE GOODRUM. 

Subscribed and sworn to before me the date above written. 

F. B. ELMER, U. S. Consul. 

United States Consulate, 

La Paz, November 20, 1864. 
I, the undersigned, consul of the United States of America for La Paz, &c, 
do hereby certify that the foregoing declaration and affidavit are true and faithful 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 601 

copies of the original on file in this consulate, the same having been carefully 
examined by me, and compared with said original, and found to agree therewith, 
word for word and figure for figure. 

Given under my hand and seal of the consulate at La Paz, the day and year 
above written. 

[seal.] F. B. ELMER, U. S. Consul. 



[Enclosure No. 3. — Translation of No. 2.] 

Port of La Paz, Mexico, October 30, 1864. 
I declare having seized on board the schooner W. Richardson, Captain George 
Goodrum, one hundred barrels of powder, against protest of the said captain. 

A. DE LA COUVE, 

The officer on service. 

Umted States Consulate, 

La Paz, November 22, 1864. 
I, the undersigned, consul of the United States of America for La Paz, &c, 
do hereby certify that the above declaration is a true and faithful copy of the 
original filed in this office, the same having been compared by me and found to 
agree therewith, word for word and figure for figure. 

[seal.] F. B. ELMER, IT. S. Consul. 



No. 216. 

Mr. Bigelow to Mr. Seward. 

No. 49.J Legation of the United States, 

Paris, March 10, 1865. 
Sir : Referring to your despatch No. 43, relative to the removal of one hun- 
dred barrels of blasting powder from the United States schooner William L. 
Richardson, at La Paz, by the commander of a French vessel of war, I have 
the honor to enclose a copy of a letter on the subject, which I placed in the 
hands of his excellency the minister of foreign affairs to-day. As the state- 
ment of Captain Goodwin is on the files of the State Department, I omit it here. 
I am, sir, with great respect, your very obedient servant, 

JOHN BIGELOW. 
Hon. William H. Seward, 

Secretary of Slate. 



Mr. Bigelow to Mr. Drouyn de Lhuys. 

Legation of the United States, 

Paris, March 9, 1865. 

Sir: It appears from information which has reached my government from F. 
B. Elmer, United States consul at La Paz, in Mexico, that the United States 
schooner William L. Richardson was arrested on her voyage from San Francisco 
to the mouth of the Colorado river on the 30th of October last, and one hundred 
kegs of blasting powder taken from her hold, by the commander of the French 
war steamer Diamant, under circumstances which, if correctly reported to us, 
cannot, I am persuaded, receive the approval of the Emperor's government. 

The powder is represented to have been consigned to Paul Hillen, at Tucson, 



602 CONDITION OP AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

in Arizona Territory, for mining purposes. It was on board a vessel belonging 
to a line contracted for to ply between San Francisco, La Paz, Bajir, and the 
station near the mouth of the Rio Colorado, whence passengers and freight are 
embarked for Fort Yuma and points beyond in the Territory of Arizona. 

The facts, as understood by my government, are fully set forth in the annexed 
statement, made and sworn to by Captain G-oodwin, the master of the William 
L. Richardson, before the United States consul at La Paz, on the 2d day of 
November last. 

While the United States government is not disposed to contest the belligerent 
right of France to prevent contraband of war from reaching Mexico during the 
existing hostilities, it assumes that the Emperor's government will be equally 
indisposed to interfere with perfect free trade in all commodities between the 
several ports of the United States. 

I have, therefore, to request your excellency to inform me whether the Em- 
peror's government is in possession of any information conflicting with the state- 
ment of Captain Goodwin which would invalidate a claim by our government 
on his behalf for indemnity for the value of the powder taken from his ship and 
for her detention at La Paz. 

I beg to renew to your excellency the assurance of the very distinguished 
consideration with which I have the honor to be yoiir excellency's very obedient 
and very humble servant, 

JOHN BIGELOW. 

His Excellency Mr. Drouyn db Lhuys, 

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Paris. 



No. 217. 

Mr. Bigelow to Mr. Scivard. 

T Extract.] 

No 62.1 Legation of the United States, 

Paris, March 17, 1865. 

Sir : I have but a few minutes left before the closing of the mail to give you 
the result of a conversation which I held this afternoon with Mr. Drouyn de 
Lhuys upon topics which have formed a feature in several of your recent 

despatches. 

# * * * * * * 

When our conversation, of which, I think, I have given the spirit, had 
reached this point, I mentioned that I had just received a despatch from you, 
which treated upon some of the points referred to in our conversation, and, 
though not instructed to do so, I was at liberty to read it, and felt disposed to 
do so if his excellency was interested to hear it. He said, of course, that he 
would be very glad to hear anything from you, and I proceeded to read your 
despatch of the 27th February. 

I may here mention, parenthetically, that in the progress of our conversation, 
and in reply to his reproaches against the irritating tone and imputations of our 
press and public men, I said that with us everybody's most idle thought and 
casual impression might find expression in one way or another through the 
press ; but I ventured to affirm that his excellency had no complaints to make 
of the government proper. " No," he replied, " our relations with your govern- 
ment have been very well. Mr. Seward has always been very amiable and 
considerate." But he went on to deprecate the possible consequences of a 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 603 

public sentiment so prompt as that shadowed forth by the press of the United 

States to seize upon and miscontrue the motives of the Emperor's government. 

******* 

I am, sir, with great respect, your very obedient servant, 

JOHN BIGELOW. 
Hon. William H. Seward, 

Secretary of State, Sfc, fyc, SfC. 



No. 218. 

Mr. Seward to Mr. Bigelow. 

No. 84.] Department of State, 

Washington, March 27, 1865. 
Sir : I have to acknowledge the receipt of your despatch of the 10th instant, 
No. 49, relative to the action of the commander of the French war steamer 
Diamant in removing a quantity of blasting powder from the United States 
schooner Wm. L. Richardson, at La Paz. Your proceedings therein mentioned 
are approved by this department. 

I am, sir, your obedient servant, 

WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 
John Bigelow, Esq., fyc., fyc, fyc 



No. 219. 

Mr. Seivard to Mr. Bigeloio. 

No. 96.] Department of State, 

Washington, March 30, 1865. 

Sir : I enclose a copy of a despatch of the 23d ultimo, No. 57, addressed to 
me by M. D. L. Lane, esq., the consul of the United States at Vera Cruz, 
giving a statement of the circumstances connected with a collision between the 
United States merchant schooner Three Sisters and the French transport ship 
Alhir, near Cape San Antonio. 

You will be pleased to invite the attention of the imperial government to the 
case thus presented, with a view to such indemnification for the losses entailed 
upon the citizens of the United States concerned in the vessel and cargo, and 
such redress for the treatment of the officers and crew of the schooner, as upon 
investigation may be found to be justly due. 
I am, sir, your obedient servant, 

WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 

John Bigelow, Esq., §c, fyc, fyc. 



Mr. Lane to Mr. Seward. 

No. 57.] Consulate of the United States of America, 

Vera Cruz, February 23, 1865. 

Sir : I have to inform the department that the American schooner Three 
Sisters, of Key West, Florida, William Lowe master, was towed into this port 
on the fourth instant under the following circumstances : 

On the 29th of last month, about half past 7 o'clock p. m., while near Cape 
San Antonio, the said schooner was run into by the French transport ship Alhir 



604 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO, 

and very badly damaged. Five of the crew, believing the schooner sinking, 
went on board the Alhir. As soon as it was found the schooner did not sink, 
they started to return to her, but were arrested by the commander of the trans- 
port, Mons. Ouisnier Delisle, and one of them put in double irons. The com- 
mander then sent to the schooner and took from her the only remaining seamen, 
leaving on board the master and a passenger to steer and pump her, as she was 
making water fast. The day before their arrival in this port the passenger was 
taken from the schooner ; but on the 4th instant, just before entering the harbor, 
they were all returned to the schooner. After several hours' detention in the 
harbor by the commander of the transport, because the master would not sign a 
paper releasing the French commander from all liability resulting from the colli- 
sion, he was permitted to land. He deposited the register and the crew-list in the 
consulate. The master and the crew reside at Key West. After hearing their 
statement, I addressed a note to Mons. Jules Doazan, French consul at this 
port, repeating the story of the master as substantiated by his crew, and asked 
his early attention to the case, as, under the circumstances, I should be obliged 
to hold the French government responsible for the conduct of the commander of 
the transport, and for whatever loss might be sustained by the collision and by 
the imprisonment of the crew. I received no reply to this note. On the 9th I 
called a survey on the schooner by three masters of vessels, who condemned 
the schooner as entirely unseaworthy, and estimated the cost of repairs at $8,000. 
The master entered his protest, a copy of which I sent to the French consul, 
with a note repeating the former notice. No offer of aid or remuneration has 
been made to the master or crew since their arrival, and no notice whatever 
taken of the case. The master and crew agree in saying they hailed the trans- 
port three times before the collision ; that their lights were set, and must have 
been plainly seen by the transport ; that when a change was made by the 
schooner in her course, in order to avoid the collision, a corresponding change 
was made by the transport. They all say they believe it was purposely done ; 
and from the course pursued by the authorities since the arrival here, I believe 
so, too. 

The crew came on the consulate for support, but as Captain Lowe had provi- 
sion on the schooner, I made an agreement for them to stay on board till the 
15th instant without any expense to the consulate, when I placed them on board 
the British bark James Welsh, bound for New York, Master W. Megill, who 
agrees to land the crew at or near Key West, paying him $20 for each man in 
gold. I agreed, if he did not stop at Key West to obtain the usual indorsement 
of the collector, that the certificate of the crew that he had performed his part 
of the contract satisfactorily would be sufficient. It is not in accordance with 
the regulations, but I could do no better. There was no American vessel in 
port, and no other bound in the direction of Key West. I thought it the most 
economical way to dispose of the crew, who suggested this way of getting home, 
and I solicit the speedy payment of the sum on presentation of the usual certifi- 
cate. It is very difficult to get masters of vessels to take seamen home, on ac- 
count of the difficulty they have in getting the pay from the department. I 
hope this will prove an exception to the usual rule. 

The names of the seamen on board the schooner are Joseph Acosbee, William 
Lowe, jr., Frank. Whittaker, Robert Matthews, Anthonie Sape, George Randall, 
all of Key West. The master, Captain Lowe, is still here. He was sole owner 
of the schooner. As there was no insurance on her the loss falls heavily on him. 
I did the best I knew in the case. If there is anything more to do in the 
premises, I await instructions from the department. 

I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, 

M. D. L. LANE, U. S. Consul 

Hon. William H. Seward, 

Secretary of State, Washington, D. C. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 605 

No. 220. 

Mr. Bigelow to Mr. Seward. 

[Two enclosures.] 

No. 75.1 Legation of the United States, 

Paris, April 17, 1865. 

Sir : The "Corps Legislatif " Lave finally disposed of the amendments pro- 
posed to the address from the Throne which related specially to America. The 
one deploring the blood shed for a foreign prince in Mexico provoked a lengthy 
and somewhat angry debate, though the opposition was confined exclusively, 
I believe, to the republican wing of the assembly, neither Berryer nor Thiers 
speaking or voting. Out of two hundred and fort3 7 -one votes, but sixteen voted 
for the amendment. No different result was to have been anticipated, as the 
Mexican policy of the government stands more in need than any other, at the 
present moment, of the unqualified support of the Chambers. A report of this 
debate translated from the Moniteur will be found enclosed. 

The speeches of Messrs. Corta and Rouher show what view the government 
wishes should be taken of its efforts thus far to found a European dynasty in 
Mexico. It will be seen that these gentlemen have made the most of the con- 
ciliatory tone taken by your representatives abroad in reference to the future of 
the President's policy toward foreign states in the western hemisphere. 

The other amendment, tendering sympathies and thanks to the United States 
for their efforts in behalf of civil liberty, was not debated. M. Pelletan made a 
short speech, but the news of Lee's flight, and the evacuation of Petersburg 
and Richmond, had reached the house only a few moments before he began, and 
the members were not in the humor at that moment, as you may suppose, to 
have the relations of France with the United States made the subject of a general 
discussion. The majority, at least, required time to take counsel before defining 
their position upon questions which the news of the day rendered more delicate 
than ever. M. Pelletan, who, I w T as told, had intended to enter at considerable 
length into our affairs, found in the events reported by telegraph logic more 
conclusive than any he had to offer, and so contented himself with a brief am- 
plification of the amendment. After a thrilling allusion to the news, he asked 
the Chamber to send its felicitations across the Atlantic. 

A report of M. Pelletan's speech, translated from the Moniteur, is also enclosed. 
The amendment received twenty-four votes, eight more than were given for the 
Mexican amendment. 

I am, sir, with great respect, your very obedient servant, 

JOHN BIGELOW. 

Hon. William H. Seward, 

Secretary of State, fyc., Sfc, fyc. 



[Enclosure No. .1. ] 

CORPS LEGISLATIF OF FRANCE-SESSION OF THE 10TH APRIL, 1865. 

PRESIDENCY OF M. SCHNEIDER, VICE-PRESIDENT. 

Delate on the amendment to the address about Mexico. — ( Translated from the 
Moniteur, April 11, 1865.) 

President Schneider : There were two amendments on paragraph sixteen. 
The modifications demanded for the first amendment having been obtained, it 
requires no further notice from its ; the second remains for consideration. It is 
presented by Messrs. Bethment, Jules Favre, and others, and is thus expressed ; 



606 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

" In Mexico we more than ever deplore the blood shed for a foreign prince, the 
national sovereignty unrecognized, and our future policy badly entangled, (mat 
engage.) In conformity with the declarations of the government we await the 
recall of our troops." M. Jules Favre has the floor for the development of this 
amendment. 

Gentlemen, said he, I am almost abashed at rising to speak again. [Speak ! 
speak ! ] 

We demand by our amendment that our troops shall be immediately recalled. 
In the solution of this question the country is deeply interested. I waive as in- 
opportune all discussion upon the origin of the war of Mexico, and I take the 
facts of the case as they present themselves at this moment. 

The emperor Maximilian has founded in Mexico an official empire. I earn- 
estly desire that the condition of the country may permit of a complete pacifi- 
cation, and that a government may there develop the true elements of stability 
and greatness ; but I do not desire that France should contribute to this work, 
nor that she should lavish her arms and her wealth to sustain a foreign power 
that ought to stand by its own proper strength. 

If we are to believe the articles of the Moniteur, the emperor of Mexico has 
been received with universal enthusiasm ; the whole population hailed him as a 
saviour. Among the disaffected there were none but brigands and anarchists, 
who, thank God ! were there, as elsewhere, in a very small minority. 

Thus everything is going on well, if we judge from the official documents. 
True, we have not the power to consult other statements ; and, inasmuch as 
nothing relating to this question has been laid before the Chamber, I consider 
that it has been treated with disrespect. Why this silence ? All political doc- 
uments are our common property. 

It is impossible not to remark, that by the side of these official declarations 
we have others which contradict them, and which affirm that the country has 
never ceased to be in a state of war. 

The first fact that strikes us is, that the emperor Maximilian, ever since he 
touched the soil of Mexico, has found it impossible to conform to the programme 
he traced out for himself. You have not forgotten the declaration of Maximilian 
at Miramar, when he replied to the deputation which came to offer him the 
crown, that he accepted it, but only upon the condition that he held it by the 
will of the whole nation. This declaration was also made by the French gov- 
ernment. In reference to this the minister of foreign affairs, who was the in- 
terpreter of the imperial letter of July 3, 1862, wrote on the 17th of August, 
1863 : " The government will submit to the Mexican people the question of the 
political regime, which is to be definitely established." 

Upon such promises Maximilian departed ; and such are the conditions en- 
joined upon him by France. These conditions are succinctly insisted on by the 
despatch of 17th of August, 1863. The orator read an extract from this de- 
spatch which set forth the manner in which the Mexican people should be called 
to give their verdict, so that there might be no shadow of a doubt as to the ex- 
pression of the will of the nation. 

Nowhere, continued the orator, could we find more reasonable words, but 
they seem to be dictated by honorable and very singular illusions, since the 
minister who wrote them supposed that no sooner should the emperor Maximi- 
lian arrive at Mexico than he would be greeted by a submissive and sympathetic 
nation, and that there was nothing to do but to apply to the rural magistrates 
(gardes champetres ) to insure the elections. [Noise.] 

Unhappily this was not the case, and it will be interesting to place, not the 
entire truth, since we are not able to get at that, but a few figures alongside of 
the letter which states the indispensable conditions for the establishment of the 
new government. 

The honorable member read a document from which it appeared that, during 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 607 

the year 1864, there were 8,070 men put hors de combat, 1,001 of whom were 
killed ; 179 cannon had been taken by the French, as also 2,630 muskets and 
1,400 horses. Such, gentlemen, was, in 1864, the state of a country that they 
called, and still continue to call, pacified. I will not present to the Chamber 
the sorrowful episodes, the deeds of arms in which French blood so freely flowed, 
the treachery of certain Mexicans who, after having betrayed their country, be- 
trayed the Frenchmen of their party, basely abandoning them, and delivering 
them into the hands of their countrymen. 

These facts prove that Mexico is still in a state of war ; and this is yet further 
proved by the siege of Oajaca, where Marshal Bazaine has been obliged to go, 
which has been attended by much sacrifice, and has ended in the taking of 
some thousands of men. I ask the government if it desires such a position of 
affairs to continue, if it intends to prolong such expeditions ; for not only have 
we gone to Monterey, but I believe I speak the truth when I say that prepara- 
tions are now making for an expedition into Sonora. 

Now, whoever is acquainted with the province knows that there are difficul- 
ties there which, if not insurmountable for our courageous soldiers, are, at least, 
very terrible for them. "What business have we to put ourselves in such a 
situation 1 Is that what we have been promised 1 Should not the emperor 
Maximilian, once placed upon the throne, be able to defend himself? Moreover, 
what does all this mean ? 

We proclaim the principle of nationalities in Germany and in Italy, and just 
now an honorable member of the majority reproached me for not having laid 
sufficient stress on this. And we went to Mexico to establish a government by 
the sword ; when it was established, instead of recalling our army we place our- 
selves in the alternative of a disaster, or of an interminable war against the 
peoples who may continually present themselves upon the field of battle. In 
fact, not only do the documents attest that Mexico is not pacified, that the de- 
clarations of the government are contrary to truth, but the partisans of Maximi- 
lian acknowledge that the present army is indispensable to the maintenance of 
his power, and that it is even necessary to augment its proportions. 

The orator read a fragment of an article taken from an official journal of Mex- 
ico, which speaks of the ill usage that the friends of the new regime are likely 
to experience, and which ill usage will have a tendency to abate the devotion of 
the partisans of the empire, and to hinder the populations to co-operate actively 
in the work of pacification. The writer of the article thinks it will be necessary 
to maintain a French army of 45,000 men in Mexico. This, gentlemen, is what 
has been printed under the eyes of the emperor Maximilian, and this is the 
family council which is indispensable for him to maintain himself upon the throne 
and to enable him to exercise his guardianship over Mexico. [Different move- 
ments. Approbation from some benches.] 

This must be energetically confuted here. In the commissions of supplemen- 
tary credits last year it was said that at the end of the year there should not 
be a French soldier in Mexico. This promise has shared the fate of many 
others ; I will not say ministerial, but human promises. It must, however, be 
fulfilled, for it would be deceiving the Chamber and the country to protest that 
we were concentrating around Mexico, while we were undertaking to conquer 
by armed force a country ten times larger than France, and where the guerillas, 
who are the strength of the nation, and in whom its patriotism has taken refuge. 
(Loud disapprobation.] 

His Excellency M. Roiiher, minister of state. Do not speak of brigands in 
such terms. 

M. Garnier Pages. They said also "brigands of the Loire in 1815." 

Mr. Piccio.\e. I ask to speak against the amendment. 

Mr. Jules Favre. We have the right to say that, since the government pre- 
tends that Mexico is pacified, and that Maximilian is hailed by the popular sym- 



608 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

patky, it shall no longer maintain around his throne a force which might be so 
necessary to France. 

I conclude by calling the attention of all thinking men who hear me to a dan- 
ger apparent to all, and which is too serious to be slighted. 

In 1862, when the expedition was in process of formation, I took the liberty 
of warning the Chamber of the dangers and contingencies which might arise 
from a contest with the United States. 

It is difficult to imagine how deeply the American heart has been wounded by 
our expedition to Mexico. And may we not fear that at the termination of a 
terrible, a gigantic war, which has called all men of action to the battle-field, 
their armies, disbanded by peace, should rush into Mexico ] Let our troops re- 
turn, then ; let them return then immediately. It is the desire of all France, and 
we ask of you to fulfil it. [Approbation from several benches.] 

President Schneider. M. Corta has the floor. [Movement of attention.] 

Mr. Corta. The Chamber will, I hope, permit me to say a few words about 
Mexico. Having been honored with a mission to that country, I come to bear 
witness of what I have seen. I must premise that the impressions which I bring 
thence do not agree with what the last speaker has just said. 

The Hon. M. Jules Favre declared that he would not go back to the origin of 
the expedition, but would confine himself to existing facts. On this point I will 
follow his example. 

He has examined the situation of Mexico in regard to its present sovereign ; 
in regard to its pacification ; in regard to our army ; in a word, in regard to the 
contingencies of war with the United States. Before following him into these 
different questions, I ask the permission of the Chamber to lay before it a few 
preliminary observations. It seems to me that the first question to examine is, 
what faith can be placed in the future of Mexico ? A Frenchman who had lived a 
long time in that country once said to me, " I have seen so many successive 
revolutions in Mexico ; 1 have so often seen the country ready to fall, and yet 
recover itself, that even before the intervention I said to myself, Mexico cannot 
perish. And indeed this country, even in the midst of its disturbances, had 
always a principle of vitality which gave sure promise for its future destiny." 

What are the causes of this vitality 1 In the first place, its extent is, not as 
M. Jules Favre said, ten times, but three times and a half as large as France ; 
situated in the centre of America, touching the north on one side and the south 
on the other, and washed by two oceans, this country unites all the advantages 
of geographical position to a soil of universal fertility. 

The subsoil is so rich that, at the time when the treasures of Mexico were 
being spread through the entire world, Humboldt said these riches had searcely 
begun to be developed, and this opinion has been confirmed by the testimony of 
the celebrated engineer, M. Lam, who went from France to Mexico. 

Mexico is, therefore, a highly favored country, in an agricultural and commer- 
cial point of view. ' Having thus shown its natural advantages, let us now see 
what man has done for it. 

When Fernando Cortez conquered Mexico, he overthrew not only the throne 
of Montezuma, but a civilization the importance of which is attested by history, 
by tradition, and by monuments still extant in the country. What has been 
substituted for this civilization] The Spaniards gave Mexico Catholicism, 
without themselves following its precepts. The natives were excluded from all 
public offices ; certain branches of industry and knowledge were closed to them, 
in the interest of commerce and the church. Spain, in short, did not restrict 
herself to drawing from Mexico the silver that she scattered over the whole 
earth ; she levied from its products in order to aliment her colonial budgets, 
and to raise immense sums of money, which she poured into her treasury at 
Madrid. During all this time nothing was undertaken in Mexico for its own 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 609 

interest, but solely for that of Spain ; then came its independence proclaimed 
in 1810, and realized in 1820. 

What was this independence and for whose profit Avas it declared 1 The 
Spaniards left behind them in Mexico the old natives, the Indians, whom they 
had long enslaved, but who were submissive and resigned; a race somewhat 
weak, but industrious and intelligent, impenetrated with the sentiment of re- 
ligion and the love of home. 

The Indians formed four-fifths of the population. The Spaniards thus left 
behind them a new people, born of their admixture with the natives, the Mexi- 
cans properly so called. 

For whose profit was the independence proclaimed ? For the profit of the 
great majority of the population 1 No ; but for a Mexican oligarchy, divided 
into two pretty nearly equal parties, the liberals and the conservatives, who 
were constantly fighting with, each other, sword in hand, for the supremacy, 
oppressing the Indians and pillaging the people they were appointed to govern. 
Thus with the Spaniards came tyranny; with independence, anarchy ; nature 
had done everything for the prosperity of the country, but man seemed bent on 
its ruin. It has not perished, it has not even feebly prospered. The reason is, 
that outside the Mexican oligarchy the Indians, a patient and tenacious race, 
have never ceased to labor, and that foreigners have continued their traffic, 
which consists in the exchange of the mineral productions of Mexico against 
the fabricated productions of Europe. 

Is a nation which has resisted oppression and anarchy, and which possesses a 
most fertile soil, capable of prosperity 1 The reply cannot be dubious. To 
rise again it needs but two things — a regular government and time. [Very 
good, very good.] It unquestionably has a regular government. From Vera 
Gruz to Mexico the progress of the emperor Maximilian has been a triumph. 
To the Indian he is the man coming from the east, with blue eyes and golden 
hair, who is to regenerate the country. 

The Indians have, therefore, with a sort of innocence, but with genuine en- 
thusiasm, hailed the emperor Maximilian as a deliverer. 

The clerical conservatives, who form a half of the Mexican element, have 
rallied around him, as have also those moderate men among the liberals who 
have become tired of civil war and are persuaded that the republican form of 
government is not suited to the interest of the country. This majority of the 
Mexican element has hailed the empire as the only hope of the nation, its only 
anchor of salvation. A solitary group of men has held itself aloof; for these 
men civil war is a necessity, a habit, an existence, and like Porfirio Dias, at 
Oajaca, they will not throw down their arms until they are forced to surrender 
at discretion. 

Such are the sentiments which greeted the emperor Maximilian. It may be 
said that upon his arrival in Mexico he was crowned by the universal suffrage 
of the people, who called him to reign over them. [Very good, very good.] v 

The orator gave a full expose of the earliest acts of the government of the 
emperor Maximilian for the reorganization of the finances, the military affairs, ' 
public instruction, and the administration of justice in the empire ; also for 
regulating the delicate question of the goods of the clergy. He entered into 
circumstantial details upon the financial situation of the country ; upon the re- 
sources which could be looked for from taxation and the mines — resources con- 
siderable in themselves, but which would not exempt the government from the 
necessity of raising loans ; upon the foreign debt of Mexico, the operations of 
which are regularly carried on ; upon its internal debt, consisting of bonds 
issued by the different governments which have succeeded one another. 

The lateness of the hour obliged the honorable member to defer the remainder 
of his speech until to-morrow. The seance was closed at twen t y ir.ii: « 
six. 

39 MEX. 



610 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

M. Corta. In yesterday's session, gentlemen, I exhibited Mexico, with all 
its vitality — its financial resources, its popular government, and the prosperity 
which a regular administration and time guarantee to it ; for time is of necessity 
the auxiliary of all great things. To this picture I would make hut one addi- 
tion. I wish to speak of the popular current which begins to set towards Mex- 
ico. Foreign capital, and emigrants who possess a keen scent for political af- 
fairs, are now to be found in Mexico. A national bank has been established, 
and its immunities have been granted to influential and distinguished houses in 
France and England ; grants have also been made for the construction of nu- 
merous railroads. The most important of these grants, viz., for the line to run 
between Vera Cruz and Mexico, has been given to a very large English com- 
pany having a capital of 135,000,000, and who are able to send on 15,000 la- 
borers to carry on the work. Besides all this, there are grants for the line of 
steam packets in the Gulf of Mexico, and along the shores of the Pacific, as well 
as for the working of different kinds of mines. The Chamber will see clearly 
that foreign capital and foreign settlers, who have had grants of land made to 
them, will not be kept away from Mexico on account of the threatening contin- 
gencies to which the honorable M. Jules Favre alluded in his speech yesterday. 
I take up the question which he raised — the question of the pacification of Mex- 
ico — from the point of view of the return of our army. 

The duration of this pacification is explained by the extent of the Mexican 
territory, and by the half century of war and anarchy which has reigned upon 
this territory. The end of the pacification has been found subordinate to facts 
which I ask leave to point out. The principal fact is the occupation of the sea- 
ports. A number of these ports, either on the Gulf of Mexico or on the Pacific, 
were occupied until lately by Juarez or his partisans ; they collected the reve- 
nues of several custom-houses, and with these resources they maintained their 
corps d'armee. An insurrectionary body, compelled to take its subsistence from 
the country in which it lives, renders itself odious by the requisitions it is forced 
to make, and recruiting itself at the expense of the country, it quickly exhausts 
itself in exhausting the country. Therefore external revenues were necessary 
for the support of the insurgents, and I regret to say that, until lately, such re- 
sources have been left at their disposal. But at present, thanks to the co-oper- 
ation of the land and sea forces, all the ports of the Atlantic and Pacific are oc- 
cupied either by our troops or by those of the emperor Maximilian. The in- 
surgents are deprived of the seaboard — that is, of the means of obtaining sup- 
plies, and hence one of the causes, in fact the principal cause, of the duration of 
the insurrection no longer exists. 

The political situation of Mexico furnishes another fact to which the pacifica- 
tion was also subordinate. The Chamber knows that Mexico, after having 
vainly entreated Europe for kings, formed itself into a republic — now federative, 
then military, and then again federative. Under the rule of the federative re- 
public several provinces declared themselves independent ; they established 
mints and arsenals in some of the principal localities. These arsenals, contain- 
ing considerable supplies and munitions of war, were so many torches ready to 
kindle insurrection. It is also to be observed that in Mexico the pronuncia- 
mientos, which have been followed by revolutions, have always come from the 
provinces to invade the capital ! Well, when Oajaca was captured, with all the 
inhabitants and property it contained, I think the last militaiy arsenal of the in- 
surrection was destroyed. Juarez took refuge in Sonora, abandoning his bag- 
gage and part of his treasure.' I am ignorant whether or not he has been able 
to procure fresh military supplies, or raise new recruits. It is possible that an 
expedition against him may move toward Sonora ; if so, I do not think it will 
meet with serious resistance, and I am convinced it will be the last expedition 
undertaken. 

Another fact in the light of the pacification of brigandage arises from the state 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 611 

of perpetual war and the predominance of armed force in Mexico. The coun- 
try people, and even the inhabitants of towns, unarmed, without protection from 
government, and living far apart, have contracted the fatal habit of allowing 
themselves to be robbed, without making resistance ; from this have resulted en- 
couragement to brigandage and impunity to crime. In order to remedy these 
evils, the Mexican government formed a country police, (gardes rurales,) com- 
manded by captains named by the emperor, and composed of the best elements 
of the old Mexican army. The best results may be hoped from the institution 
of this police force. Thus, from the point of view of military pacification, of 
the suppression of a possible though slight resistance at the extreme north of 
Mexico, and in the light of the pacification of brigandage, there is a prospect of 
peace and quiet at a more or less distant period. 

But, gentlemen, even when a great incendiary is extinguished, it must be 
watched, lest it break forth again. In presence of the elements of disorder which 
the civil war has left in Mexico, and taking into consideration the revolutionary 
principles rife iu the Mexican army, a disciplined army, faithful and devoted to 
its duty and its flag, is still needful in Mexico, not only to sustain the institu- 
tions of the nation, but to insure its safety ; and this army should be a Euro- 
pean one. [Movement.] Should this European army be a French army ? 
Ought the French army be still maintained in Mexico 1 The authors of the 
amendment demand the immediate return of the army. This is not admissible. 
In fact, to recall our army would be to compromise the work just begun; and, in 
case of the overthrow of that work, to expose our policy to the ridicule of 
Europe. To recall our army — that is to say, to abandon those who have ac- 
cepted the . intervention, and have rallied around the throne, to expose them to 
the consequences which might follow such a proceeding, would be to commit an 
act unworthy of France. In the place of our flag too hastily furled, France 
would leave her honor sullied. France may be asked to sacrifice her wealth, 
but her honor never. [Very good, very good.] 

But, gentlemen, as the foreign legion and the auxiliary corps of Belgians and 
Austrians — Austrians who have already given proofs of their bravery and firm- 
ness — become developed, and the empire consolidated, the French army can be 
gradually reduced and finally withdrawn. Our flag should never cease to wave 
in Mexico until all the advantages that France upholds there are guaranteed and 
sure. Shall our flag be furled before the chances of a war that may result from 
peace in the United States % This is the last question examined yesterday by 
our honorable colleague, Mr. Jules Favre, and upon which I asked permission to 
express the opinion that I had gathered in Mexico. In that country these 
chances preoccupy the public mind much less than in Europe. I will quote the 
opinion of General Smith, when, in 1S47, he occupied the city of Mexico. After 
General Jackson's expedition, he was asked if the United States intended to keep 
Mexico for themselves; he replied, "Why should they! Mexico is an old 
country, having its own religion, its own customs ; its population, though thin, is 
scattered over its whole extent. The United States want deserts to people and 
virgin soil to work, upon which their institutions may readily be implanted. 
Mexico is not to our taste, and deserts and waste lands abound in America." 

Since these words were uttered, Sonora and the unsold property of the clergy 
have been offered to the United States by President Juarez, for seventy-five 
million (francs]) but the American government and the present Chief Magistrate 
have refused to negotiate, though thrice urged by Juarez. But will the pro- 
clivities of the United States government be modified hereafter? And first, in 
what concerns the president of the south, Mr. Davis, it is only necessary to turn 
to his message of 1863 to see that he completely recognizes what has been 
established in Mexico, and that he desires to entertain none but friendly relations 
with its new government. This is what he says : "Mexico. — The events of the 
year that has just passed away have produced important changes in the con- 



612 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

dition of our neighbor at the south. The occupation of the capital of Mexico by 
the French army, and the establishment of a provisory government, followed by 
a radical change in the constitution of" the nation, have excited the most lively 
interest. Always preferring our own government and institutions to those of 
other countries, we have no inclination to deny them the exercise of the same 
right of self-government that we claim for ourselves ; if the Mexican people prefer 
a monarchy to a republic, it is clearly our duty to acquiesce heartily in their 
decision, and to manifest a sincere and friendly interest for its prosperity." And 
there is no reason to believe that the disposition of the government of the United 
States differs from these sentiments. 

But it is objected, when peace is declared what will become of the immense 
armies that have been raised ? 

I am aware, gentlemen, that this is a problem more difficult to resolve than 
the one of which Caesar speaks, when he says, that it is only necessary to stamp 
with your foot upon the soil of Italy to make an army spring up. More diffi- 
cult than that is to cause an immense army to return to the ranks of society; 
but in Mexico — for I repeat, I bring here only the opinions I have heard in 
Mexico — the solution of this problem is deemed much more easy in the United 
States than in Europe. In fact, the rights of labor open the way to various 
careers, which are not closed up, as in Europe, by the clergy. Besides, in the 
south, the army is not composed of mercenaries. It is in some sort a national 
army, which, after having laid down its arms, will soon return home and resume its 
ordinary occupations. In the north, the army is composed principally of mer- 
cenaries, but of mercenaries wkose services have been rewarded by bounties of 
money and of land. All the soldiers of the northern army are, therefore, land- 
holders, and, gentlemen, landholders do not generally become adventurers. 

But is it indeed true that the army of the United States will cease to exist 
after peace is established ? There is reason to believe, supposing the Union to 
be restored, that in the face of the agitated south and of Canada up in arms, the 
government at Washington will feel the need of maintaining a standing army ; 
in this case, the remains of the present army will enter the ranks of that one 
which will then be formed. 

Another consideration which I have heard put forth would result from the 
situation in which the United States government would be placed after the paci- 
fication; this government will find that it has heavy damages to repair, and an 
immense deficit to fill up. Under such circumstances, gentlemen, war cannot be 
undertaken ; therefore, in view of the future government of the United States,, 
the chance of a war does not appear to be strong. 

But it is said adventurers, led by another Walker, may attack Mexico. In, 
the first place, gentlemen, it is not conquest from a political motive, but plunder, 
which is the aim of adventurers. Now if adventurers do spring up in the United 
States they will have conquests to make far more tempting than that of Mexico ; Can- 
ada on the one hand, and the opulent Havana on the other. But how should these 
adventurers attack Mexico 1 by land 1 It is well known how precipitately General 
Jackson concluded a peace with Mexico, and under what conditions the expe- 
dition was formed. General Jackson's expedition cost the United States two 
years in time, and five hundred million francs in money. Would it be possible 
for adventurers to undertake such an expedition by land, across deserts, where 
they would have to bring with them all their provisions and munitions of war, 
and also be obliged to await the rainy season in order to continue their march ? 
By land it is impossible ; by water a pretty large expedition — and that is the 
only kind to be feared — could be kept under the eyes of nations so watchful 
over the seas, and Europe would not look with indifference upon such enter- 
prises. I therefore believe, gentlemen, that there is nothing to fear from Mexico, 
from the contingencies which have been mentioned, and I will .now conclude 
with one reflection. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 613 

Our expedition to Mexico was undertaken in the midst of a revolution, brought 
about by science before our eyes. At the present day, steam and electricity 
annihilate distances, bring nations, so to speak, in contact with each other, by 
land and sea, with their various wants, interests, passions, chances of disagree- 
ment, and also happily place them in strict community of ideas and sentiments, 
which clearly demonstrate it to be much more the interest of nations to aid one 
another mutually than to fight together ; the prosperity of one nation is increased 
by the prosperity of the others. A striking example of this is, on the one hand, 
the beneficial rivalry of France and England in peace, and, on the other, the war 
in the United States, which not only has disturbed all Europe, but has also 
caused it to experience an immense commercial and manufacturing crisis. Well, 
in the midst of this novel situation, with the prospect of the nations of the world 
being drawn more closely together, and with the chances of peace and war, what 
will be the scope of the Mexican expedition ] The future will tell us in esti- 
mating its results. As for us, while waiting for history to write the page conse- 
crated to this expedition, what duty does our conscience impose on us 1 This 
duty has always appeared and still appears to me very plain ; our flag is pledged ; 
where our flag is, there is France, and we owe it our support. It is for this 
reason, gentlemen, that we are now in Mexico; it is for this reason that I vote 
for the rejection of the amendment proposed to you. 

[Very good! very good ! numerous signs of approbation.] 

President Schneider. Mr. Picard has the floor. 

Mr. Ernest Picard. Whatever legitimate authority, gentlemen, may belong 
to the words of our honorable colleague, and the mission with which he has 
been honored, I must declare frankly to the house, that his speech, to which I 
listened with the most lively attention, did not convince me, [laughter,] and I 
will add, it cannot convince me. This question, gentlemen, demands from you 
in its discussion the greatest possible attention ; the sentiments which animate 
us all are drawn together in questions of this nature, and public opinion is more 
pressing, and more severe than ever upon the topic of our political conduct in 
Mexico. I will add that, in my opinion, there is, perhaps, no other question in 
which our concurrence will exercise a more salutary influence upon the interests 
of our country. It is in our power, at least I have a pride in thinking so, to 
disentangle the political situation in which our government is now placed. It 
depends upon you, if you have the will to do this, to have also the power. It 
depends upon you to do in 1865 that which we entreated you to do in 1862, at 
the time when this grave and formidable (redoubtable) question first arose in this 
assembly, and I. willingly take up the words which my honorable colleague, 
Mr. Oorta, has just uttered, when, in examining the eventualities which might 
seem to menace us from the United States, he presented them to you in a still 
distant horizon. It is not, therefore, too late ; for the rest no one would ask of 
the Chamber or of the government to adopt a policy contrary to the honor of 
France, and me less than any one. [Whisperings.] But we may ask you to 
adopt a course in conformity with her policy and her duty. [Very good, from 
around the speaker ; murmurs from several benches.] 

You have heard what the honorable Mr. Oorta has told you. I confess that 
in listening to his speech two sentiments have been excited in my breast — a sen- 
timent of fascination and a sentiment of fear ; yes, his speech fascinated me. 
Our honorable colleague has brought back from Mexico images the most brilliant; 
he has sought to gild his words with a beam of that sun he has just left, [laughter 
and noise ;] he has represented Mexico as aland of promise ; the emperor Maxi- 
milian, that young man with golden locks and azure eyes [exclamations] — I 
quote his words, gentlemen, [various interruptions] — as the saviour come from 
the east, and promised to the Indians. 

I am astonished, gentlemen, at the impression these words of his produce 
upon yofi ; I am astonished that you do not recall the events which took place 



614 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

at the setting out of the expedition. Do you imagine that the government, be- 
fore sending its troops to Mexico and seeking there what it has not yet found, 
had not obtained information on the subject from men of intelligence who have 
lived in Mexico, and who with an equal good faith, an equal sincerity, made 
similar statements ? And we know now how a people colder than we are, and 
a government less impassioned than our own, appreciates in the despatches 
which figure among the official documents the statements which come from Mex- 
ico. We believed the statements we received, and off we started ; we are now 
in Mexico, and we must quit it — we must quit it, gentlemen. The honorable 
Mr. Oorta has told you so. However fascinating may be the situation, that 
part of his speech which caused him the most uneasiness was the conclusion. 
And he did not dissimulate to the Chamber that had he found means which 
in his eyes would have been honorable to leave Mexico, he would have been 
the first to join with me in advising to leave it. He would be the first to do so, 
in spite of the marvellous narrations he has presented to the Chamber. He has 
told you of the fertility of the soil of Mexico, of the future that is in store for 
its finances. He has told you of this, gentlemen, but all this is only a personal 
appreciation, emanating, it is true, from a man to whom I willingly offer my 
homage, but which does not suffice to convince a great assembly upon so mo- 
mentous a question. [Murmurs.] It is of this assembly — it is of the honorable 
Mr. Corta himself that I would ask if he concurs with Marshal* Forey, who 
says: "Yes, unfortunately, everything in Mexico requires remodelling; the 
moral sense of the country is completely perverted. There is no longer any ad- 
ministration, any justice, any army, any national industry, any anything, so to 
speak. This is not the fault of the nation." [Interruption.] 

Mr. Chagor. Before our advent. 

A Member. The date ? 

Mr. Ernest Picard. The date of the speech of Marshal Forey ? The 19th 
of March, 1865. If everything in Mexico is to be remodelled, you will readily 
admit with me that the situation is not encouraging, nor the time propitious for 
the loan which is announced to us. If all in Mexico is to be remodelled — if the 
opinion of Marshal Forey does not coincide with that of our honorable colleague, 
who will give the casting vote? Who will come here in obedience to the first 
of all duties, and in face of this assembly furnish us with official documents, 
which may be checked, examined, discussed ? The government. The duty is 
undeniable. The entire nation is awaiting the day when the government shall 
submit to the free examination of the majority and of the minority these docu- 
ments which it has not yet produced. And where are these documents'? Of 
all political questions, the one which, perhaps, possesses the greatest interest at 
this moment for France is the Mexican question. Of all questions — I except 
Algeria — that one concerning which we do not possess a single document is the 
Mexican question. Not a single document. Not a single one. On all other 
subjects we have had distributed among us, more or less generally, documents, 
despatches, reports. Upon this subject there has been an absolute silence. We 
are often told that in France the discussions held in this assembly can replace 
those liberties which we lack — [Denials from several benches ; approbation from 
others] — and that by carefully examining and checking the affairs of our country 
we can offer our fellow-citizens iliuse guarantees which they sought in nominat- 
ing us. But how can a discussion be really serious which lacks a basis ? Is it 
possible, whatever authority may belong to the Avords of my honorable colleague, 
is it possible, I repeat, for us to discuss upon words, which, though certainly sin- 
cere, are but the expression of the personal opinion of a single man 1 

This, then, is the situation in which we find ourselves ; for upon this subject 
I have not yet seen the slightest explanation on the part of the government. It 
must be very grave, indeed, gentlemen, this Mexican question, since it is pro- 
posed to discuss it in this manner. What are the reasons why we; arejeft in 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 615 

silence and obscurity in a matter which demands explanations and light ? They 
are twofold. In the first place, the government — and I know not why it should 
he so in a great country and before a nation like France, where nothing honors 
more, both those who speak and those who listen, than the truth — the govern- 
ment, I say, wishes to keep us under the empire of illusions the most complete- 
illusions which the government itself does not entertain. [Reclamations.] 

The Minister of State. I ask for the floor. 

Mr. Ernest Picard. The government tells us the country is pacified. It is 
not pacified. It tells us our troops are about to be recalled. And yet the hon- 
orable Mr. Corta himself has just told us, in his sincerity, that our troops are on 
the point of marching to conquer Sonora. 

Mr. Belmontet. He did not say so. 

Mr. Ernest Picard. He said the conquest of Sonora was about to be ac- 
complished. 

Mr. Corta. I did not say that. I confined myself to the interrogation, " Is 
there an expedition preparing to enter Sonora ? If so, I believe two things : 
one, that the expedition will not meet with any serious obstacle ; the other, that 
such expedition will be the last." That is what I said. 

Mr. Ernest Picard. I say that the country is not pacified; that the ova- 
tions of which we have heard may without doubt have occurred at certain 
points ; but that the feeling of resistance is still very powerful in Mexico. [Re- 
clamations.] And I will give immediate proof of what I say. What is the 
position which you occupy toward the Mexicans, upon whom you do not wish 
to impose a government, but merely to become acquainted with their free wishes ? 

The Moniteur is subject to slips as well as the other journals, and I therefore 
cannot tell whether or not it was in accordance with the wishes of the govern- 
ment that it published the decree that I am about to submit to you, as furnish- 
ing the only reply I shall make to this part of my honorable colleague's speech. 
The Monterey expedition had taken place. The general entered the city. He 
delivered it from the yoke of its oppressors. The respectable citizens gathered 
around the French commander, who proceeded to install the municipal power. 
But though no armed resistance was made, still, since all this was occurring 
in a country which our honorable colleague has so. well named a vivacious 
country, and which proves its vitality by resisting a foreign invasion, a vague 
sentiment of opposition manifested itself, the existence of which is demonstrated 
by the following decree : 

" General Castagny, commanding the first division of the Franco-Mexican 
army, being charged with the reconstruction of the municipal authority of the 
city of Monterey, decrees : 

'Art. 1. Pending ratification by the government of the emperor Maximilian, 

is named provisional prefect of the district ; , 

substitute ; , alcalde, &c. 

'Art. 2. Any person designated in the preceding article who refuses to fulfil 
the functions confided to him shall be immediately punished by six months' 
imprisonment, conformably with the law," 

We have here, gentlemen, a sort of press-gang for functionaries. I do not 
wish to speak of it with levity, for that would subject me to the remonstrances 
cf the minister of state ; and I wish in a question of such gravity to merit, at 
least, his testimony that I have treated the subject as he desires it should be 
treated. What does this impressment of functionaries prove ? Siaiply that re- 
sistance was universal, and that the ovations were only offered along the route 
followed by our honorable colleague, who was attached to the person of the 
sovereign and surrounded by cortege. But this is not all, gentlemen. How 
were you received by those who summoned you to Mexico ? And herein lies 
my reply to what the honorable Mr. Corta said, when, after crying out that 
honor forbade France to abandon Mexico, he said that if we abandoned it we 



616 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

should leave there our partisans exposed to the malice of the reaction. It is we 
who are exposed to the malice of our partisans, as you will be in a way to 
judge from a document which it was not seen fit to submit to us, and we were 
obliged to hunt up among the official publications. In this document we find 
the following, where General Negre, commandant of the department of Mexico, 
writes to Archbishop Labastide : " Incendiary writings are slipped under the 
doors into the houses. The authors of this culpable manifestation seek to ex- 
cite vile material interest, which our holy religion repudiates, and to invoke the 
most detestable passions against the army of the Emperor. I am pleased to believe , 
monseigneur, that your excellency is ignorant of these criminal manoeuvres ; I 
therefore point them out to you," &c. The general concludes by requesting the 
archbishop to suppress these measures. The archbishop replies : " It is an attested 
fact, and one of public notoriety, that we have all protested against the two indi- 
viduals who have the pretension to be a government." 

These " two individuals," gentlemen, were not the authors of the incendiary 
publications. 

Several Voices. We cannot hear. Louder ! 

Mr. Ernest Picard. It is against the government that the archbishop pro- 
tests — against the government that we have erected. The archbishop contin- 
ues : " And against the circulars of the 9th November and the 15th December 
of last year, declaring categorically that the church, in the plenitude of her im- 
munities, of her rights, is subjected at this moment to the same attacks she had 
to sustain under the Juarez government, and that never has she seen herself 
persecuted with greater bitterness. In consequence of the position in which we 
have been placed, we find ourselves worse off than at that time. Your excel- 
lency will therefore perceive that the two documents (our protestation and our 
letter) contain two propositions relative to the position of the church and her 
pastors- entirely contradictory, the one to the other. One is necessarily true 
and the other false." 

And which was the proposition necessarily true 1 That one only which is 
contained in the letter of which I have just quoted a passage, but which also 
claims the responsibility of the following quotation : 

."Who could have thought that the first steps on both sides would lead to the 
maintenance of infamous laws, called laws of reform, decreed by the demagogy ?" 
And thus, gentlemen, you are styled demagogues. 

His Excellency M. Rouher, minister of state. Does that please you ? 

Mr. Ernest Picard. I continue the quotation : " Who among you can im- 
agine that the men who have pilfered the power will be unmindful of the reli- 
gious and patriotic party, and that they will go so far as so take from that party 
its respectable members, treat them with contempt, and even to threaten them 
with the severest punishment ? Who would think that they could push pre- 
sumption and impudence so far as to side with the fallen party, and protect laws 
which have thrown such disrespect and outrage upon the ministers and virgins 
of the Lord ? Who is there among you, no matter how limited may be his in- 
telligence, who has not understood that the regents-general of the intervention 
are the bitterest enemies of religion and order ?" You see how you are treated 
by those men who have called upon you — those men of consideration, whose 
sentiments I have just made known to you, and one of whom, if I mistake not, 
belongs to the provisional government you have established down there — M. la 
Bastida. I do not intend to read the entire document, but I merely wished to 
lay a sample of it before you. And now I hope the honorable Mr. Corta will 
permit me to ask him, is he very sure that he saw everything 1 He certainly 
understood all that he saw, but he has not seen all that he could understand. 
[Movement.] 

Different voices. And- you, what have you . seen? what have you been 
able to understand 1 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 617 

Mr. Ernest Picard. The second reason why I fear the government has left 
us in darkness is one which must be a still more painful one for it : it is that, 
behind all the brilliant explanations which the government will not fail soon to 
make, with all the talent of him who shall make them, I place a financial con- 
clusion, viz : that the emperor Maximilian and his government will again make 
a demand upon the credit and funds of France. It is this, perhaps, which will 
explain to you why it was not thought proper to submit to our inspection those 
budgets, those custom-house systems, the brilliant mirage of which dazzled our 
eyes at the last session. I willingly bow before the financial superiority of our 
honorable colleague. I know he has often been one of the most experienced 
authorities on our budget commissions ; and when he reports upon a budget, 
after having seen what he relates, I readily believe his word. When he makes 
here a Mexican report, [rumors,] a report on Mexican finance, I hesitate to give 
him the same confidence, and I think it my strictest duty, in the name of my 
constituents, to come here, and, as far as I am able, examine the documents and 
figures which are placed before us. 

The Marquis de Pere. There is no Mexican deputy here. 

M. Ernest Picard. I have not understood the interruption. 

President Schneider. Do not stop for interruptions. 

M. Ernest Picard. I regret, gentlemen, to say it, but the figures which you 
have heard to-day are not of a nature to inspire confidence in the hearts of 
future subscribers. The subscribers to the first loan have seen this loan, issued 
at the rate of sixty-three francs, fall in a few days ten and twelve francs—fall, 
I think, even as low as forty-eight francs, and at the present moment rise to 
fifty-two francs. So that small capitalists, owners of small incomes, attracted 
by the high rate of interest, believing the government to be morally responsible 
for an issue made, so to speak, under its patronage, and which may be sanctioned 
by official discourses pronounced here, [denials from several benches,] may have 
to be saved by a second loan. But you will agree that the way to restore the 
equilibrium of our finances is not to unite them more closely than is proper, in 
these circumstances, to the Mexican finances. I add, that it appears to me con- 
trary to all rules of moral and political economy that the government should 
favor (I use expressly no other word) combinations which are forbidden, in- 
terdicted to private individuals. What does it accomplish in this first loan ? 
It authorizes this borrower, called the Mexican government, which cannot give 
sufficient security to its creditors to insure their receiving the interest of the 
sura, but to place in the office of deposits and consignments four semisties of 
arrearages. Thus it does what would not be allowed to the smallest commercial 
company, viz : pay the interest of the loan out of the capital; so that, at the 
end of two years, those who have not been so prudent as to withdraw from the 
consequences of such a financial affair will find themselves confronted by an 
empty treasury, and having no other guarantee than the henceforth well-known 
bonds of the Mexican loan. Complaints have been made about this, gentlemen, 
and I have in my hand documents which show these complaints to have been 
energetic. For instance, one of these subscribers in a paper which has, I think, 
been distributed to you all, and the authority of which I do not otherwise 
guarantee. [Laughter and exclamations.] 

M. Rouher, minister of state. What authority, before the Chamber, can a 
document have which you do not guarantee 1 

M. Ernest Picard. The government will explain itself. Here is what I 
find in this document: "Perhaps the subscribers to the loan will have more 
real causes of grievance in the facts accomplished during the operation, properly 
so called, of its issue. The rumor spread abroad of a more than filled-up sub- 
scription, corroborated by considerable purchases made the day before, and the 
very day of the closing of the subscription list, up to one and ahalf per cent, profit ; 
the irregular delay in announcing the allotments, whilst it was publicly given 



618 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO- 

out that there would be a considerable reduction upon applications already 
made — all this has certainly contributed to swell the number of applicants, 
and prevent subscribers from extricating themselves, in leaving the market open 
to those only who were acquainted with the true position. Whence proceeded 
these false reports ? Whence came these purchases 1 It is not the purpose of 
this document to seek the answer. It suffices to state the share of influence 
they have exercised. Thus much is certain, that while the loan could be sub- 
scribed to with one per cent, discount for brokerage, purchases with premium 
were made one day on a very large scale — not by hundreds of francs of capital, 
but by hundreds of thousands of francs of interest all at once ; that it would 
be easy, by tracing up the bonds delivered, to discover by whom these purchases 
were effected ; that they stopped as soon as the subscription was closed ; that 
they were forced to believe the loan entirely filled up at the risk of entering 
into explanations rather too delicate ; and that, lastly, subscribers have de- 
termined by this to increase the quantum of their applications, the author of 
this document himself heading the list. 

" Who has laid the affair before the public ? The credit mobilier, a privileged 
institution of the government. Who has received, one might almost say, who 
has solicited subscriptions from the public 1 The agents of the credit foucicr de 
France, another privileged institution of the government. Who represents the 
credit foucier de France in the provinces 1 Notaries public and private collec- 
tors of finance, functionaries holding office from government. This side of the 
question alone suffices. It does not result from this that France ought to guar- 
antee the solvency of Mexico ; but the public cannot be prevented from view- 
ing, in what has already been done, a governmental support, carrying with it at 
least a moral responsibility, and thus is assuredly one of the principal determin- 
ing courses of the subscriptions made to the Mexican loan. This idea gains un- 
deniable strength from the preceding and daily acts of the French government." 

This, gentlemen, is what the subscribers to the loan have published, [ah ! ah ! J 
and what is indispensably necessary to be made known, now that we are on the 
eve of having a second loan attempted ; for as truly as I recognize the legitimate 
right of the government to call upon the public credit to negotiate the sixty-six 
millions it has on hand, to invite all capitalists to join in an operation that it con- 
siders sound, so truly do I believe it to be its imperious duty not to make such 
operation without first clearly enlightening those who are appealed to, without 
informing them to what consequences they are exposed, and without everything 
being conducted with a complete and entire royalty. [Very good, from several 
benches.] 

Such being the case, the basis of the loan that you would make, which has 
been announced to us by Mr. Oorta, and which was not certainly the cause of 
his discourse, although it formed its most direct and precise interest — the basis 
of this loan is the financial prosperity of Mexico. Now, the light we ask of you 
is, light upon the financial prosperity of Mexico. The Hon. Mr. Oorta en- 
deavored to give it, and he told us — citing the authority of a minister of the 
Mexican finances, the best statistician I believe that Mexico possesses, Mr. Lerdo 
y Tejada — he told us that this economist had in 1857 computed the proceeds of 
the customs revenue to be worth nearly eighty millions ; seventy-five millions at 
first, he said ; eighty millions after the opening of the ports of the Pacific, and 
a hundred millions even, taking into consideration the increasing prosperity of 
the country. This is the only document I should have been able to verify 
among those cited by my honorable colleague, and I requested him to show me 
the statement of this minister of the finances. But my honorable colleague was 
not in possession of this statement ; had he seen it with his own eyes, 1 should 
have accepted the figures ; but he had never seen it. He had obtained his 
information only through a third person. It so happens, however, that I have 
in my hand [the orator unfolded a great roll of paper, which excited the risibility 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 619 

of the assembly] a synoptical table cf the finances of the Mexican republic, drawn 
up, not in 1856, but in 1850, by the Hon. Minister Lerdo y Tejada. I am ig- 
norant of his having issued a new one in 1856. If it has been so stated to my 
honorable colleague, I shall believe ; only I must remark that if such is the case, 
the civil war has greatly benefited the country, since from 1S50 to 1856, at the 
time when Mexico was in the greatest state of agitation and suffering, when the 
republic began to have the upper hand, the revenues of the customs had doubled. 

In referring to this only official, or at least authentic document, I have been able 
to obtain, so as to appreciate the value of the expose of my honorable colleague, 
I have been disagreeably surprised to find that not only the customs receipts, 
but those of the entire revenues of the country, do not amount to more than the 
half of the figures given by the Hon. Mr. Corta, or rather given to him. [Move- 
ment.] They are put down at 8,500,000 piastres — that is, forty-two millions 
instead of eighty millions. 

Mr. Corta. Will you allow me to make an observation ? 

Mr. Ernest Picard. Willingly. 

Mr. Corta. I took the information which I laid before the Chamber from the 
documents of former ministers of the finances, and also from a paper which I 
had not seen, as I told my honorable colleague, Mr. Picard, but of which an 
extract was given me by a Mexican who is at present in Paris. If the Hon. 
Mr. Picard had conferred with me upon the subject of the discrepancy which he 
believes to exist, but which does not exist, I could have obtained further inform- 
ation from this Mexican ; but, I repeat, no discrepancy exists. 

And in the first place, the writings of Mr. Mora Blasio, and of Mr. Antonio 
Garay, one of the most distinguished ministers of the Mexican finances, who 
wrote in 1835, 1836, and 1837, demonstrate that the revenues of the customs, 
not the net revenues, but the gross revenues, might, by adding in the profits 
robbed from the exchequer by contraband trade, amount to nearly the sum in- 
dicated by Mr. Lerdo y Tejada; for these former ministers counted the possible 
revenues of the customs at seventy-five millions, and Mr. Lerdo y Tejada, who 
wrote later, carries them to eighty millions — that is to say, to five millions more. 

Now, what does the Hon. Mr. Picard oppose 1 To a paper of Mr. Lerdo y 
Tejada, written in 1856 or 1857, he opposes an anterior synoptical table, from 
which it results that the net produce of the revenues was, according to Mr. Lerdo 
y Tejada, inferior to that I spoke of. But the synoptical table shows the net 
produce only, while the work of Mr. Lerdo y Tejada comprises the net profits, 
the accumulated gross profits, and the profits which are stolen from the ex- 
chequer. There can be no possible comparison, neither by analogy nor dis- 
crepancy. 

Mr. Ernest Picard. Was I not right in saying, at the commencement, that 
we must beware of the fascinations of Mexico 1 And are not those finances 
rather fantastical in which we find the number wanted without discarding the 
unknown quantity, and in which we reckon not only what enters into the 
treasury, but also what does not enter, but which probably ought to enter 1 
[Laughter.] We are not accustomed to discuss affairs with such a large margin : 
and my honorable colleague must allow me to observe to him, that if that were 
the only guarantee furnished to the subscribers to the loan, and if they knew it 
were so, and did not see behind the loan the government in its power, its ma- 
jesty, and moral responsibility, there would be no subscribers. I say it without 
further insisting upon this ungrateful portion of my task. I shall have fulfilled 
it if I have succeeded in demonstrating to you that it is impossible, even with 
the greatest good will in the world, and without being in any way systematically 
opposed to Mexico and its prosperity — [interruption] — impossible, I say,, to 
look upon our financial relations with Mexico as an excellent affair. I think, on 
the contrary, that it is time to remember what the Hon. Mr. Berryer said last 
year about this time, when, making the account of Mexican finances, its debt 



620 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

and its resources, he showed that the minister of finance of the Mexican empire, 
whose report had heen published there in the Morning Post, had said that not 
only was a loan, giving one hundred and twenty millions to the Mexican gov- 
ernment, necessary, but that to save it it would require a loan of seven hundred 
and fifty millions ; otherwise it could not meet its expenses. The Hon. Mr. 
Berryer, our illustrious and eminent colleague, was very nearly in the right. 

At present, gentlemen, who can dispute it 1 Surely not the minister, who, 
questioned by me for the third time, (and in truth I fear to question him again,) 
is about to announce to you for the third time that a loan is imminent and per- 
haps desirable. I say, then, gentlemen, that in the light of wisdom in the good 
administration of our finances, as well as of wisdom in our foreign policy, the 
affair of Mexico presents nothing satisfactory to us ; and I am sure in thus ex- 
pressing myself that I agree with the secret sentiment of the Chamber, and I 
may say before it what it thinks in all sincerity. But, gentlemen, in face of 
this fact, what is our duty ? What have we to do ? In order to understand it 
well, and know just how far we may venture to go, it is indispensable in this 
question also to take a retrospective view. 

It was in 1862 that for the first time we were informed in this place of the 
Mexican expedition, and in 1862 we disputed the utility of this expedition, and 
declared to the government that it would not easily obtain those indemnities it 
went so far at such a cost to seek. We told it that behind this enterprise was 
concealed another, inspired by a candidate, and that candidate was the Arch- 
duke Maximilian. What answer was made to this 1 What were the words of 
him who was then the eloquent organ of the government 1 He said to us, When 
such suppositions are affirmed, proofs must be brought forward to support them, 
and you have none. The aim of the agreement between the three powers was 
to require from the Mexican republic a more effectual protection to their respect- 
ive subjects, and the fulfilment of the obligations contracted by this republic. 
And the honorable orator added : "The three contracting parties are pledged to 
reserve no acquisition of territory and no private advantage, and to exercise in 
the internal affairs of Mexico no influence of a nature to violate the rights of 
the Mexican nation to choose and freely constitute the form of its own govern- 
ment." 

Thus it was acknowledged that if the archduke were behind the expedition, 
you would not have been asked to vote for the expedition. 

The following year we resumed the subject. All the world knew the Arch- 
duke Maximilian to be the candidate. The minister of state himself acknowl- 
edged that since October 31, 1861, (and this took place in the session of March 
13, 1862,) that since that period an engagement had been entered into with him. 
"It was then necessary to look about one," said he. "A name has been pro- 
nounced — the name of a prince of that great house of Hapsburg, which shortly 
before we encountered on the battle-fields of Magenta and Solferino. The Em- 
peror has thought himself magnanimous in not opposing this candidate, and if it 
obtained universal suffrage it must be respected." That is what was done Oc- 
tober 31, 1861 ; that is, several months before the time that the contrary was 
told us in this building. The proof, gentlemen, is very clear and cannot be 
denied. 

The following year we resumed the subject. You know, gentlemen, what 
obstacles the expedition had to surmount. We were again told, "We desire 
that the Archduke Maximilian should become emperor of Mexico, but no engage- 
ment to this effect has been made with him." And when, with the authority 
of his word, the honorable M. Thiers said in this house that the engagement 
was inherent to the situation, everybody cried out. The honorable M. Granier de 
Oassagnac exclaimed, interrupting M. Thiers, that there was no engagement, 
and that the archduke set out because he wished to do so. The honorable min- 
ister of state declared also that there was no tengagement. And, gentlemen, the 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO 621 

affair is too serious for me not to place before the Chamber the words which 
were uttered on this occasion. 

In the session of January 27 Mr. Berry er said : "Is it true that the govern- 
ment has entered into no engagement binding the country either in a financial 
point of view or as concerning our soldiers ? Is the country committed, or is it 
not? 

"Mr. Rouhek. If you had read Mr. Larrabure's report you would have been 
enlightened on this subject. 

"Mr. Segris. I request permission to say a word. The reply of the govern- 
ment organs which I find in the report, and which I bespeak for my share of 
the debate, is as follows : The Emperor's government declares that at present it 
has not entered into any engagement whatsoever, either to leave a corps of 
French troops in Mexico or to guarantee any loan, and that there is no reason 
to suppose it necessary to augment the French forces at present in Mexico." 

Every one, with the exception perhaps of the opposition, whose mistrust in 
all that relates to this question appears to be incurable, [smiles from several 
benches,] placed confidence in the words of the honorable minister of state. One 
member only, one of the most eminent, who has often occupied the seat of min- 
ister, and who knows all the weight attached to the words of a minister, [murmurs,] 
interrupted the reading. He can readily comprehend the reserve under which 
the honorable Mr. Rouher will seek a refuge, from which I have no intention to 
drive him. The honorable Mr. Thiers interrupted Mr. Segris by saying "at 
present." Upon this interruption of Mr. Thiers the Moniteur stated that a 
movement was produced in the assembly. This movement took place on the 
27th of January, and on the 10th of April a convention, regulating the loan, the 
sojourn of our troops, and the payment of the Mexican coupons, was signed and 
engagements entered into, and upon too large a scale to have allowed them, oa 
the 17th of January, to be avowed to the Chamber in the same terms in which 
the convention at Miramar was concluded on the 10th of April. 

And now, habituated by our situation to moderate our desires, [laughter and 
murmurs,] we solicit you not to permit the convention of the 10th of April to 
be again overstepped, or that once more, before this Chamber, at the same date, 
you listening and the minister speaking, a session shall be held in which en- 
gagements shall be entered into upon the same terms, nothing more nor less, 
and then be carried out as in preceding years. 

The Chamber is aware that the honorable minister of state has been present 
at only a portion of these debates, but the entire Chamber has assisted at almost 
all. It has watched the rise and progress of the Mexican question, and I assert 
that the hour has arrived when it becomes its duty, as it is its right, to bring 
this question to a close. 

I assert, gentlemen, that when a Chamber has been induced by the govern- 
ment to accept in perfect confidence that which has been proposed to it, and 
allowed itself to be led whither it would not have gone of its own accord, I 
assert that this Chamber has a right and a duty. It has been trustful ; it must 
now resist. It cannot and should not in face of the minister, in face of the gov- 
ernment, make use of parliamentary courtesy, [dissent from several benches; 
assent from others,] because state affairs are not regulated by courtesy and ex- 
cess of confidence. I leave all other questions to your discretion, gentlemen,, 
but in the Mexican question we are released from this duty toward the govern- 
ment. You are searching, for the interest of the country, for that policy which 
this time youbught not to recommend timidly to your country; but — permit me 
the word — you should enjoin upon the government by a vote and a manifesta- 
tion. We do not ask you to join our party; but can it be possible that, in a 
question where you think as we do, where the interest of France appears to 
you as it does to us, where you see your duty as clearly as we do, that a man 
should not rise up from your midst, were it but — were it but — I withdraw the 



622 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

word, and I wish it might he the honorable M. Segris, whom I just now quoted, 
who has withheld, as he says, the declaration of the government, and who cer- 
tainly must have withheld it for more than a year. The honorable Mr. Segri3 
said, "This is the declaration which has been made;" I withhold it; and the 
honorable Mr. Rouher added, " I withdraw nothing from it." The declaration 
is there; the engagement exists; and, since it does, it must be kept. What is 
it ? It is the engagement entered into by the convention of 10th April, 1S64, 
by the convention of Miramar; or rather it is the engagement entered into in 
these precincts, for the convention of 10th April, 1S64, like all conventions that 
pass between sovereigns, and are not submitted to the assemblies, is not altogether 
in conformity with the policy that has been explained here, and sustained by 
the organs of the government. It has a preface of which I would willingly hear 
the honorable minister give a different interpretation from mine; it is thus con- 
ceived : 

"The governments of his Majesty the Emperor of the French, and of his 
majesty the emperor of Mexico, actuated by an equal desire to secure the re- 
establishment of order in Mexico, and to consolidate the new empire, have 
resolved to regulate by a convention" 

If nothing more is meant than a, desire, I have no more to say; but if this 
"desire" contains the tacit and inevitable engagement which it is proposed to 
you to take in following this policy, the Chamber, which was not a party to 
this convention, and does not incline to this policy, must disengage itself from 
it. And in what manner must it do so ? It must do that which was provided 
for by article 1 of the convention, thus expressed: 

"The Trench troops that are now in Mexico shall be reduced as soon as pos- 
sible to 25,000 men, including the foreign legion. This corps will remain tem- 
porarily in Mexico, to protect the interests that led to this intervention, in 
conformity with the conditions regulated by the following articles." 

Here I pause to remark to the government : You declared in the report of 
the honorable Mr. Larrabure, to which you called attention in the session I spoke 
of just now, and to which you referred our colleagues in these words, "Read 
it and you will be enlightened." You declared the year 1864 should not pass 
away before the French troops should have returned to France. [Sign of denial 
by the minister of state.] 

M. Jules Favre. Yes, yes; it is in the report. [Noise.] 

M. Ernest Picard. This is what I read in the report of the honorable Mr. 
Larrabure: "In the present provisions the government hopes that the end of 
1864" . [Interruption.] 

Many Voices. "Hopes!" 

M. Ernest Picard, continuing: "that the end of the year 1864 will mark 
the termination of the expedition. Moreover, arrangements have been proposed 
whereby, from the 1st of January, 1864, Mexico shall contribute more efficiently 
towards the pay and the maintenance of our troops." 

Several Members. Well, well! 

M. Ernest Picard. The report says further : " In the first place, and in a 
general manner, the government has no intentions of undertaking new expedi- 
tions." You know that now an expedition to Sonora is again spoken of. "As 
for the expedition of San Luis de Potosi, in particular, it was judged necessary 
in order to occupy the most important parts of Mexico. The country between 
San Luis and Mexico contains important centres of population. The occupa- 
tion of these parts became necessary, precisely to hasten the accomplishment of 
the work undertaken, viz : the redress of our grievances, and the possibility for 
Mexico to choose freely a new government. Having the country under our 
control as far as San Luis de Potosi, we can more rapidly and successfully see 
this result realized. The army will stop there." Has it stopped ? [Inter- 
ruption.] 



CONDITION OF AFPAIES IN MEXICO. 62 3 

M. Augusts Chevalier. It went forward in the face of peril. 

M. Ernest Pi card. That is true. Its achievements were splendid, but our 
policy was not. [Approbation in the vicinity of the orator.] I proceed : 
" Universal suffrage, operating naturally according to the customs or institutions 
of the country, will be invited to choose the form of government it prefers ; 
whatever may be its decision, France will respect.it." Is that what we are 
doing ? I ask you this sincerely, loyally, in the capacity of a deputy anxious 
to fulfil my mission, and to obtain, if possible, the concurrence of my fellow- 
citizens and colleagues in a question which touches so nearly the most important 
interests of our country, both present and future. I ask you, have you done 
this ? You have not ; the Chamber knows it. Your engagements were made 
while you were in the Chamber, and as soon as you quitted it you forgot them. 
[Disturbance.] You have returned to it, and I recall them to your remembrance. 
I remind you of them at the time, when, if we understand the language of 
politics, we ought to be able to see, by the explanations given us in these pre-, 
cints, that not only has the French army not stopped, not only has it not returned 
in 1864, but also that it will not return in 1865. 

Several Members. Very good. 

M. Ernest Picard. Is it not true? Does anyone contradict me? This time 
the minister takes no further engagement, and I thank him for it ; but by taking- 
no further engagement he gives warning to the Chamber; and if the Chamber 
is warned, what is its duty? Who are we here — for what ? Can it be that the 
discussion of the address is nothing but a political pastime? [Disturbance and 
murmurs.] 

M. Belmontel. The pastime is rather a long one! 

President Schneider. I must beg of M. Picard * * * 

M. Glais Bisoin. Oh! the word is parliamentary; we all accept it? 

President Schneider. If it be parliamentary, it is not well chosen in the 
midst of such full and serious debates. [Very good; very good!] 

M. Ernest Picard. I wish that to-day's session might prove to me that I 
have expressed myself badly. I wish that, animated by the same sentiments 
and intentions as myself, my colleagues might form the same idea that I do 
of our mission, and our mutual duties. [Fresh interruption.] 

Several Voices. We know them. 

M. Granier de Cassagnac. Do you claim to be a model de_puty? [Noise.] 

M. Ernest Picard. Do not be afraid, gentlemen ; I shall form no theory 
infringing the constitution ; I shall not ask you to interfere in the administra- 
tion ; but I ask you whether or not you have the right and the duty to vote 
efficiently in this assembly upon a given question about which your opinions 
is settled? 

M. Granier de Cassagnac. Certainly we have. 

M. Ernest Picard. Does the address sufficiently express this sentiment? I 
have read attentively the paragraph now under discussion. It certainly differs 
from last year's compilation; and certainly, in the ingenuous phrase wherein 
the commission of the address expresses pleasure in witnessing the return of our 
troops, the intimation is not sufficiently precise for the government not to be able 
to misunderstand it. Having been three times held at bay upon this question, 
I. conjure you, not in your own interest, not in that of the government, nor for 
any secondary political reasons, but in the great interests of the country, to declare 
your sentiments, if you have that courage that will * [Exclama- 

tions and murmurs.] 

Numerous Voices. Order! order! 

M. Granier de Cassagnac. Such expressions cannot be tolerated. 

President Schneider. I call on the honorable Mr. Picard to explain him- 
self. 

M. Taillefer to M. Picard. Take back that word. 



624 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO 

President Schneider. I call upon him to take back a word which may- 
wound the feelings of the Chamber. It is not courage, but conviction, which 
acts in this place; and in France, where there is conviction, courage is never 
wanting to express it. [Very good; very good!] 

M. Taillefer. I require that the honorable orator take back his expression. 
[Yes, yes; order!] 

President Schneider (addressing Mr. Picard.) I beg of you to withdraw 
your expression. 

M. Ernest Picard. I appeal to the whole Chamber to admit, with me, that 
the resolution to be taken in this circumstance is one that requires a certain 
amount of courage. [Denials and noise.] 

President Schneider. I again invite Mr. Picard to withdraw an expression 
which is somewhat offensive to the Chamber. 

M. Ernest Picard. I withdraw it unhesitatingly. I am here to discuss a 
grave question, and not to offend the Chamber. 

President Schneider. You are fully aware, Mr. Picard, that you must 
respect the convictions of your colleagues if you wish them to respect yours. 
[Very good!] 

M. Ernest Picard. I respect them fully, and have just given proof of it. 

1 continue : You see, gentlemen, in what manner I take the liberty of placing 
this question before you. It is clear and precise, and closely connected with 
the gravest interests of the country, and your most imperious duties. I say, 
that if you decide to vote the second part of our amendment, which runs thus : 
"In conformity with the declarations of the government we await the recall of 
otir troops," you will explicitly express your wishes. If, however, you will not 
associate yourselves with an amendment which comes from our side, you can 
make one for yourselves which will express the same idea. By so doing you 
will, in my estimation, and as I said at the opening of this debate, render the 
most signal service to the government. You will disembarrass its policy. 
When it has been decided and knowledged in the French Chamber that our 
troops can return with honor, without detriment to any one, the government 
then will no longer be restrained by these vain and egotistical reasons which 
were just now brought forward, but will be able to fulfil its secret desires, and 
conscientiously satisfy its political conduct. [Very good ! from several benches.] 

M. Ernest Picard. Can you do it? You can do it this year; you could 
have done it better last year; and better still three years ago. The pretexts, or, 
if you like it better, the reasons, that prevented you last year, no longer exist. 
It was asked, with whom shall we treat? And the minister of state replied, 
"France does not treat with her enemies; she will not treat with Juarez, nor 
with the bands behind Juarez." 

One word upon these "bands;" and, in order that I may not be told that we 
associate our idea, which we do not, with men who are rightly called bandits — 
as they have been called by the government in former discussions — I inquire of 
the emperor Maximilian and his ministers, whose conduct in this respect 1 honor, 
for, in this sense, they have inaugurated a liberal policy — I inquire of the em- 
peror Maximilian and his ministers, in what manner those men should be treated 
who still resist the new government of Mexico ? The minister of the interior, 
Mr. Gonzalez de la Vega, expresses himself thus in a circular referring to those 
persons who lay down their arms : " His Majesty entertains the warmest desires, 
and makes constant exertions, to obliterate every trace of the dissensions that 
have for so long a period desolated the country, and to renew the ties of brother- 
hood which ought to unite the great Mexican family. He cannot, therefore, see 
with indifference that when certain persons are spoken of, odious qualifications 
are used which are in disunion with his policy and his conciliatory sentiments. 
With this object in view his majesty in the decree of the Cth instant, wherein 
he calls around him all those who have opposed or still oppose his government, 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 625 

without being otherwise criminal, has avoided the use of the expression indulto" 
(pardon.) Such, gentlemen, is the way they think in Mexico; I am convinced 
our soldiers think the same, not fearing to honor those with whom they have 
fought. I say, therefore, that the minister appears to me to exaggerate when he 
solemnly declares to this tribunal that it Avas impossible to treat with Juarez ; 
hut this is no longer the question. And when he said it whs impossible to treat 
with Almonte, who was merely a provisionary chief, although installed by the 
French government itself, I reply, that although this may have been a reason, a 
specious one, this reason no longer exists. The Archduke Maximilian is now on 
the throne;* he is seated there in virtue of a universal suffrage, very restricted 
certainly, and especially by the vote of- the assembly of nobles. And here — I 
trust the government will permit me to speak it out — arises an invincible di- 
lemma. If votes must be sought for- in the recesses of the mountains, by the 
edge of the sword, these votes are no longer free, and we would prefer not to 
have the guarantee of universal suffrage if it must be so obtained. 

The emperor Maximilian is, I assert, sufficiently firm upon his throne to permit 
the recall of the French from Mexico. Last year you said it could not be, as 
he was not then installed. Now he is ; ovations you tell us accompany him on 
every side. The pacification is effected ; you yourselves declare this fact to 
us ; you withhold from us documents that give a contrary statement, and I thank 
you for withholding them, if it obliges you to declare from the tribune where 
you stand, " The emperor Maximilian is on the throne of Mexico ; and, as I 
informed you last year, we have entered into no engagement to sustain him 
there ; there is no necessity of our sending out our French soldiers under a 
foreign flag, and we may now stipulate with Maximilian for the return of our 
troops." In such a case, I withdraw my amendment, and thank the govern- 
ment for having performed an act of sound policy and true patriotism. 

And now, gentlemen, I must beg you to note that whatever seeming irritation 
there may have been in our debate, I have carefully abstained, throughout the 
perplexing circumstances which surround our heavy task of duty, from saying 
a word about these threatening contingencies which hang over the question, and 
of which you are perfectly cognizant. [Murmurs.] On the other hand, you 
must judge whether it comports with it, comports with a true and judicious pol- 
icy to keep thirty or forty thousand French troops and a portion of our fleet 
engaged for years in the Mexican expedition, three thousand leagues distant 
from the war we are actually carrying on in Algeria. Is it a sound policy ? Is 
it a patriotic policy? Is it a policy which a French Chamber can accept 1 No ! 
a thousand times no i 

They did not dare to present it to you in this light when they drew you into 
this expedition ; and can I forget that you constitute to-day the sovereign ex- 
pression of the will of the nation ? that when you speak, if you do speak, all, 
and the government before all, are bound to obey 1 I conjure you, in the name 
of French interests, to speak, and to protect the government itself, and, above 
all, France. [Expressions of warm approbation around the speaker.] 

President Schneider. The minister of state has the floor. 

His excellency Mr. Rouher, secretary of state. Gentlemen : Government 
does not ask you for a vote of trust ; still less does it demand of you a vote of 
complaisance which you would not grant. It asks for your sincere, enlightened, 
and free judgment on the affairs of Mexico, [very good;] and, in order to aid 
you in forming an opinion, it is its duty to inform you of the facts, and of its 
convictions concerning them. 

And first, I meet in the Hon. Mr. Picard's discussion a reproach which I 
could in nowise expect. The government, says he, makes silence around the 
Mexican question; it produces no documents, no papers in the debate; it shows 
itself tmwilling to give any information, and thus compels the opposition to 
discuss the question at a great disadvantage. 
40 Mex. 



626 CONDITION OF AFFAIES IN MEXICO. 

What! gentlemen, has the house, has the country, remained ignorant of the 
events concerning Mexico ? Has not all possible information been given to 
public opinion, and to the members of ihis assembly? Every fortnight, at the 
arrival of every mail, either in England or in France, the Moniteur publishes 
with most scrupulous fidelity every military, political, or administrative inform- 
ation relating to the Mexican question. You can examine all these docu- 
ments ; I know of no omission, nor of any interruption in them, for, so far as I 
am concerned, I declare to the house, when I wished to inform myself concern- 
ing the events which have taken place in Mexico since last year I merely and 
simply read the Moniteur. Thus the reproach addressed to government by the 
Hon. M. Picard is utterly unfounded. 

Let us now examine rapidly what Mexico was before, and what it has become 
since, the emperor Maximilian ascended the throne ; what the present position 
is, and what duties that position entails upon us. Let us consider at once, as 
did the Hon. M. Picard, the paragraph in your address, and the amendment to 
it proposed by the opposition. 

Mexico, prior to the French intervention, (and all agree on this point,) was a 
prey to the most deplorable anarchy. For fifty years it had undergone all the 
sufferings entailed by prolonged revolution ; governments succeeded each other 
with the most marked want of stability ; civil war reigned in central Mexico, 
and in a large portion of the south. The northern provinces had thrown off the 
yoke of all authority, the governors having long since declared their independ- 
ence. 

There existed in that unfortunate country a sad contrast between the riches 
with which God has endowed it, and the disordered rule of the leading classes 
which govern it. As was said yesterday by the honorable M. Corta, labor, the 
love of order, and patriotism, had no longer a home there ; but among the long- 
oppressed Indian population, agriculture, industry, and commerce had no secu- 
rity of existence or of duration ; labor no future to look to. And this disorder 
did not injure the natives only; it reached a]l foreigners who had come to bring 
their activity and their industry into the various parts of Mexico. 

Such is the origin of the resolution taken by three great nations to avenge 
the injuries received by their countrymen, and the outrages to which they had 
been subjected. Such was the condition of Mexico. 

What has it become since the French intervention ? What has it become 
since the emperor Maximilian ascended the throne to which he wa3 called by 
a regular, univeral suffrage, whose votes were presented to him when he accepted 
the crown 1 What has it become since ? 

But, first, let us ask, at this moment, when that question is propounded to 
us, how long a time has there elapsed to justify a demand for the absolute 
pacification of Mexico 1 

The emperor Maximilian has hardly been ten months in possession of the 
Mexican empire and of the city of Mexico, and we are already asked to give a 
strict account of all the events which may have taken place ! 
Well, let us look at the facts. 

French intervention has procured a durable peace to the central part of 
Mexico ; but a large portion of the country had not yet been embraced by the 
operations of our troops. All the northern provinces and part of the south along 
the Pacific coast were yet in the hands of the adversaries of the empire, and 
that for the reason given a moment ago by the honorable Mr. Corta. The federal 
system had divided the country into almost entirely independent provinces ; 
each governor has his own administration, his own justice his own army, his 
own finances ; paid and equipped his troops and had an arsenal of his own at 
the seat of his government. 

Thus there was no centralization of the administrative powers, but a complete 
dispersion of all authority, and even of financial resources, for the governors 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 627 

levied taxes, but very seldom did any portion of them reach the hands of the 
central administration at Mexico. 

The emperor of Mexico had, therefore, a two-fold mission to fulfil. He had 
first to reorganize the administration and government in the parts of the country 
which were pacified; he had the difficult task of steering clear of the passions 
of the contending parties, avoiding the exaggerations of the clerical party as 
well as the fiery demands of the party called liberal in Mexico. 

He had, besides, to organize in the midst of these factions a new party, at 
once conservative and liberal, which should avoid all the above-mentioned 
obstacles. 

It is, undeniably, a difficult task that of reorganizing all this complicated 
administrative and governmental machinery which, in the Old World, we cau 
establish only with a great deal of time and patience, and which we have per- 
fected, but after paying often very dear for our mistakes. 

He had at the same time to establish his authority in the more remote parts 
of his empire, to overcome the influence of Juarez, and to counteract the efforts 
of his party and of the governors, who considered themselves independent. 

What has he accomplished, gentlemen ? He inaugurated his administration 
by a general amnesty, thus urging the country to quiet, to peacefulness, and 
seeking to lead the people to ideas of order and those of the government. Then 
he convened, as you were informed by Mr. Corta, all the most enlightened and 
eminent men of the city of Mexico and of the provinces, without distinction of 
parties, and without inquiring into the part played by them in former political 
events, and he intrusted them with the task of inquiring into the questions of 
finances and that of the organization of the army. 

Finally, in order not to act too precipitately in anything in this country, ren- 
dered tore by revolutions, he went himself into the provinces, visited the prin- 
cipal cities, inquired into the tendencies, the ideas, customs, hopes of the people, 
thus gathering all the information which could be useful to him in the difficult 
art of governing a nation. 

After his return to Mexico, making up his mind at once, he resolved all the 
questions which had to be disposed of, and determined *he administrative course 
of the prefects of the empire by instruction worthy of the homage they received 
yesterday. 

He has organized a council of state; he has restored justice — that justice so 
endangered in Mexico has been by him established on a firm basis, which guards 
at once its learning and its liberties. And this was doing no little, gentlemen. 
The administration of justice in a country is more than a governmental ques- 
tion. It is a social question ; for it is in the administration of justice we find 
the most solid basis of the future and grandeur of a nation. [Marks of appro- 
bation.] 

When this was done he inquired into all the questions which related to the 
increase of the public wealth. He sought to give the strongest possible impulse 
to enterprises facilitating the means of communication between the various parts 
of the country. 

In these efforts did he meet with general confidence? Has he enlisted the 
sympathies of Europe? Have no manifestations occurred around him of a 
nature to prove that his empire is already firmly established, and offers most 
satisfactory guarantees to public opinion ? 

I consider the movement which has taken place during these nine months of 
the events of which I have to give an account to the Chamber. This movement 
has been as follows : 

The customs of Vera Cruz and of the other ports of the empire have con- 
siderably increased. The English, who showed themselves very suspicious at 
the time of the loan, have gained confidence, and the great railway, which is to 
connect Vera Cruz and Mexico, has been conceded to an English company, who 



628 CONDITION OP AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

will fulfil the contract entered into by the firm of Escenda and the government 
of Juarez. 

This is not all. Various companies are being organized in Mexico; the 
Guanajuato and Guadalajara railways, which are to connect the principal cities 
of the empire, have been conceded; the mines of Durango, including both the 
old lodes and newly-discovered ones, are being worked by mining companies; 
science and speculation have joined hands to aid in developing the resources of 
the country. Besides the gold and silver mines it possesses, there have been 
discovered iron and coal mines and petroleum lands, all of which are about to 
be worked. 

Something more was needed. Communications had to be established between 
the ports of the two seas which surround Mexico. A company was organized 
for this purpose, and now a line of steamers ply between the ports of both seas, 
insuring rapid communications along the coasts of the Mexican empire. 

On the other hand, gentlemen, the emigration movement spoken of by the 
honorable M. Oorta has received a commencement of execution. I read in the 
Moniteur that large tracts of land in the province of Zacatecas are being offered 
to European immigrants. 

Finally, as a last evidence of the progress making in Mexico, and a most 
promising symptom for the Mexican empire, is the formation witli French capital 
of a national Mexican bank, which will soon organize the commercial credit of 
Mexico. 

Such results obtained in a new country, in a country which is but now attain- 
ing social existence", developing for the first time its resources and powers, would 
be essentially worthy of attention and admiration. 

How, then, shall you consider them when they are realized in a country so 
long a prey to civil war, still restive and disturbed, and of which a large portion 
was still a short time ago in the hands of the enemy we were fighting? 

One word about military expeditions. 

The honorable M. Picard has said that these military expeditions were under- 
taken under circumstances rendering them at once unreasonable and useless. 

But which were the provinces where Juarez had sought shelter '? Where was 
he still ruling 1 What resources was he availing himself of to organize the 
"corps d'armee" which we had to conquer ? He had taken refuge in the State 
of Durango, and thence ruled over the States of Nuevo Leon, Ooahuila, Tamau- 
lipas, Chihuahua, and Sonora. 

He drew his supplies from the port of Matamoras, situated on the American 
frontier, and from various ports on the Pacific. Was it reasonable, was it pos- 
sible for the emperor Maximilian to let this opposition increase, fed by the 
Mexican customs, which he had a right to rely upon collecting ? 

Under these circumstances was the expedition undertaken, and now reproaches 
only are addressed to the brave troops who courageously marched from victory 
to victory through the immense territory they had to cross. [Very good, very 
good.] 

A Voice. We did not blame our soldiers. 

The Secretary of State. You did not blame the soldiers, but you blamed 
the eminent officer who, in order to insure the completion of our undertaking, 
and to hasten the return of our troops, undertook these expeditions ; led by 
political considerations, you blamed the eminent chief who planned these far-off 
expeditions, and you sought to make government contradict itself. 

A Voice on the left. It is the system. 

The Secretary of State. Yes, our troops, commanded by Marshal Bazaine, 
took possession successively of Durango and Monterey, then strengthened by 
Mexican troops, and, assisted by our navy, they seized Matamoras, and thus 
dried up the source of Juarez's supplies, which he used against us. They did 
not stop there. Marshal Bazaine sent General Douay into the State of Jalisco 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 629 

and gave him tbe charge of subjecting these agitated provinces; then advancing 
toward the regions along the Pacific coast, we brought them all under the rule 
of tbe emperor Maximilian. 

"We have been to Acapulco, to Tepic, to San Bias, to Mazatlan ; perhaps we 
are at present on our way towards Griiaymas, the most important port of Sonora. 
Everywhere did we vindicate the honor of the French flag, or rather of the 
Mexican flag, whose defenders we were. [Very good, very good.] A worthy 
crowning of these great undertakings was the unconditional surrender of Oajaca, 
of its governor, Porfirio Diaz, and of the four thousand men of his command. 

Now, gentlemen, that our conduct has been explained, and a condensed ac- 
count of our operations presented, what criticisms are made against us ? 

If I understand the Hon. M. Picard correctly he brings two principal accusa- 
tions against us : an overweening confidence in the resources of Mexico, and a 
breach of promise. 

We would allow the Mexican government to negotiate a loan in our market 
when Mexican finances, according to his opinion, do not present sufficient guar- 
antee. 

We had promised to withdraw the troops at the end of the year 1864, and 
we violated that promise. 

As regards Mexican finances, gentlemen, did not the information imparted by 
the Hon. Mr. Corta fully satisfy the house concerning the resources of that 
country 1 [Yes, yes. J 

The Hon. M. Picard got hold of I know not what kind of statistical tables, 
which he showed tbe house from a distance, and which he finds, says he, con- 
tradict the statements made by the Hon. M. Corta, statements taken from a 
former minister of finances in Mexico. 

Did the Hon. M. Corta, in order to convince you, merely give you the indi- 
cations of some writer or other ? Did he not analyze the position of the Mexican 
empire under Spanish rule, afterwards as a republic, and again after the United 
States had taken possession of it % Did he not follow up the question in the 
most thorough manner, proving that as far back as 1804 the resources of Mexico 
represented one hundred millions of taxes, of which fifty millions — the figures 
are due to M. de Humboldt — were handed over to the Spanish authorities, who 
used part of it for the colony and sent the other part to the mother country ? 
This is also confirmed from other sources. 

In 1846 the Americans had possession of all the Mexican ports ; they could 
collect the Mexican customs for their own use. How much do the documents 
of that time value them ? At eighty to ninety millions ; the very figures men- 
tioned by the Hon. M. Corta. 

There was less contraband and fewer frauds going on then. The Americans 
managed the customs in a way which gave the best guarantee in that respect. 

These figures were but the rough product, I know. But Mexican budgets 
are made as we make them in France. In the budget of expenses figure the 
expenses for the admiuisti'ation and collecting of customs, while the rough 
amount derived from them figures in the budget of receipts. 

It was, therefore, natural for the Hon. M. Corta, when counting up the re- 
sources, to put down the receipts at eighty to ninety millions, expressing the 
hope of seeing these figures increase, indicating, as he did, that the entire 
budget, including the interests on the state debt, did not exceed one huudred and 
fifty millions. He then counted up all the resources which revenue, taxes and 
the tobacco monopoly would give Mexico, and said there was a wide margin of 
resources and securities which Mexico could rely upon and give in pledge to 
Europe. 

Gentlemen, permit me to offer you a consideration which will make the house 
trust in the vitality and powers of that country. 



630 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

Do you think that, during the civil war, enormous contributions were not 
levied by the contending governments'? 

Some days ago I questioned an honorable general recently returned from 
Mexico, and asked him what he thought of the resources of that large empire. 
"That country," answered he, "has paid three hundred millions taxes during 
fifty years; during fifty years the irregular governments existing there levied 
on Indian labor, on Indian produce, and on the goods passing through the cus- 
tom-house, two hundred to three hundred millions. How, then, can any one 
pretend to fear lest when order, prosperity, and liberty are restored, and develop 
all these magnificent natural resources, it should not be possible to levy one 
hundred and fifty millions taxes ?" 

Have no fears, gentlemen ; the impulse given by the emperor Maximilian 
will insure the lasting prosperity of the finances of the Mexican empire, and 
give undoubted securities to those, who shall lend it their money. [Approba- 
tion.] There can besides, in this case, be no direct or moral responsibility at- 
taching to the French government. France does not interfere, and gives no 
direct or indirect guarantee on the question of the Mexican loan. We inform 
public opinion of facts which we believe to be true. We publish them in full, 
and in all sincerity, and it is for the public to judge. [Approbation, j 

M. Jules le Favre. What means of verification has the public ? 

The Secretary of State. The Hon. Mr. Jules Favre asks me what 
means of verification the public possesses ? I will tell him. These means are 
the capitalists who will give their money, and who know their own interest 
full as well as you do 

Several Voices. They know it much better. 

The Secretary of State who do not risk their money in operations 

•which they consider unsafe ; who examine, question, inquire, hunt up informa- 
tion, and have all the legitimate caution of capital, which dislikes ventures and 
risks. [Adhesion] 

M. Ernest Picard. The subscribers to the first loan have already lost 
twenty per cent., and now you talk of a second. [Interruption.] 

The President. I beg the Hon. M. Picard not to interrupt the speaker. 
He has expressed in the house many ideas which certainly conflicted with the 
views of large numbers of his colleagues. 

Several Voices. Yes, yes. 

The President. It was then his right; now it is his duty to listen to con- 
tradiction. [Approbation.] 

The Secretary of State. You are concerned about the future loan ; and, 
certainly, if the money-holders who to-morrow shall read your speech believe 
in your assertions, they will be in no hurry to advance their money ; and if 
they sought your legal advice, you would counsel them against it. [Laughter.] 

Well, I want to quiet your fears — to restore your confidence ; do not worry; 
the loan is subscribed. At this moment, while I am speaking, it is signed by 
the most important firms in France and England. [Applause.] I received the 
news as I was entering the house. This mistrust, these criticisms against the 
most vital interests of the country, coming from unknown sources, and seeking 
to sow disquietude and fears, will not be listened to, and it is what they de- 
serve. [Renewed applause.) 

We must then lay by all the allegations laboriously collected and brought for- 
ward by M. Picard. The question has been analyzed and studied by those who 
have the most direct interest in it; and they have decided to put their money 
into the undertaking. 

Gentlemen, there is a reproach which has touched me more deeply, both as a 
man and as a representative of the government. The house has been told that 
statements made to the corps legislatif, that engagements entered into, had been 
disregarded and broken. It has been claimed that we promised last year to end 






CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 631 

the expedition in 1S64, and to bring back all our troops to France. The con- 
vention of Miramar has been distorted to find in it I know not what contradictions 
between its stipulations and those made in January. Is this the first time this 
convention is brought to the notice of the house ? Has it not been discussed 
here? After the 10th of April, when it was concluded, was it not discussed, 
criticised, and examined by all the members of the corps legislatif ? Has not 
every point in it been fully and freely canvassed? Who, then, maintains that 
that convention contradicted the declarations of government ? What did we 
say in January, 1864? "Government had declared that it would not guarantee 
the loan which the emperor of Mexico was wishing to contract; " and also that 
the French troops would not remain an indefinite time in the service of the 
Mexican government; that the length of their stay in Mexico would be regu- 
lated by the requirements of the interests which had called us there and which 
we were to defend. 

In January we simply expressed a wish with regard to the return to France 
of part of our troops. It is only in May that we went further, and named the 
number; we said we thought it possible we might recall as many as 10,000 men. 

Such is the engagement w-e had taken, and the budget recently gave it the 
fullest confirmation. You can examine the figures which were submitted to 
you, and you will find a very large reduction in the expenses resulting from the 
reduction of our army in Mexico. 

Troops have returned. It is true that up to January, 1865, they numbered 
but 7,000 to 8,000 men, Marshal Bazaine having retained a regiment of zouaves 
for his operations against Oajaca. But two days ago we received from Marshal 
Bazaine information that this regiment was on the point of embarking for 
France; and, as became an intelligent statesman, and a general desirous of 
fulfilling the promises made by his government — 

"I hope to fulfil the engagement taken by the secretary of state towards the 
corps legislatif. I shall be the faithful guardian of the promises he has made. 
My efforts in rapidly carrying our arms to the various parts of the territory, 
north and south, of the Mexican empire were but the means to hasten the mo- 
ment of our departure, and of realizing the hopes conceived in, and the promises 
made to, the corps legislatif." [Approbation.] Any talk about breach of 
promises, engagements set at naught, is, therefore, the result of a profound 
error, and this discussion can only leave the regret that there should be persons 
so ready to doubt the word of a loyal government and the promises it makes to 
a house which it respects. [Approbation.] 

But there is a black spot on our horizon. Some point to it and show it toue. 
They do not appeal to our fears, but they give us the friendly advice of hasten- 
ing the return of our troops if we wish to escape the attack of the Uniied States. 

Gentlemen, this question cannot be permitted to remain hidden in the semi- 
obscurity where it was left by the Hon. M. Picard, who in this followed the 
example of the Hon. Jules Favre. We must fathom the question ; we must 
know what the danger is with which we are threatened. If it is a serious dan- 
ger we should discuss and encounter it like men ; if it is not, we should learn 
to despise it. [Approbation.] 

What events, then, gentlemen, can, in the United States, have reversed the 
very reassuring declarations I read to you last year from this same tribune ? 
What has happened to justify these fears and anxiety ? 

I know that around that Mexican question swarm intrigues of which, every 
day, I discover some threads. I know that from the Mexican provinces bor- 
dering on the United States there come every clay encouragements to an im- 
practicable plan of a war between the American republic and Mexico. I know 
that these intrigues are felt over in Europe, and even in France. 

A fortnight ago I read in a foreign journal a most frightful description of our 
position in Mexico ; and I found the same article published simultaneously in 



632 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

fifteen newspapers in various parts of Europe. There is evidently somewhere — 
I do not know where, and I accuse no one — a centre whence people try to en- 
courage bad feelings, and to propagate erroneous appreciations of our Mexican 
expedition. 

Is this anything new to you ? Did not some of you yesterday hand me 
something claiming to be a proclamation of Juarez, and corning not from his 
actual residence in Mexico, but from Florence, [laughter,] and distributed on 
the eve of the discussion to all the members of the corps legislatif % [Renewed 
laughter.] 

I should not have mentioned these incidents had not M. Picard seen fit to take 
hold of that anonymous document, unsigned, which has not even the merit of 
being written in French, and which he represents as a protest of the French 
subscribers to. the Mexican loan. What does he know about it ? What guar- 
antee can he give concerning that work — its authorship, its origin, its aim? 
And if he can give us none, why did he give it the honor of publicity before the 
corps legislatif? 

M. E. Picard. I merely took from that book a few questions which it pro- 
pounded. 

The Secretary of State. Gentlemen, what occurred in America resembles 
very much what is going on in France with regard to the Mexican question. 
The press propagated the rumor that the French government wanted to make a 
colony of Sonora and Chihuahua, two provinces almost as large as France, and 
to work the mines which abound there. Hence a great uproar in America. 
What ! said they, will France, not satisfied with obtaining redress for her griev- 
ances, and aiding in establishing in Mexico the imperial government of Archduke 
Maximilian, attempt now to establish a colony in provinces which border on our 
own country % This requires looking sharply after. 

Next came other accusations. They said in America that we wanted to 
violate the promised neutrality ; we had given to southern ships of war privileges 
which we refused to northern vessels ; our intention was not only to violate our 
neutrality on small points, but even to interfere by force in the conflict between 
North and South. All this has been published in America. Yes, we were going 
to interfere in this terrible war, and on the side of the South. 

This created some excitement. In answer to this supposed threat of inter- 
vention we were threatened in turn with intervention in Mexico. To justify 
such a proceeding the Monroe doctrine was quoted. They said that when 
peace was made with the South it would then be the proper time to attack the 
Mexican empire. What did all this excitement lead to % To two incidents in 
the House of Representatives and in the Senate at Washington. The orator 
who last'year presented a resolution relating to Mexico repeated his motion. It 
was at first rejected, then adopted two days afterwards. This resolution had 
no direct bearing on the Mexican question. Its object was to contradict the 
opinion of Mr. Seward and President Lincoln, and to assert the right of the 
House to exercise a direct influence on diplomatic negotiations, a right denied 
them in the despatch which was read to you last year. 

In the Senate, a member of the committee appointed to report on the budget 
pi'oposed, considering that the Mexican empire has not been recognized by the 
United States, to substitute the words, "Legation of the United States in the 
republic of Mexico," in the place of " Legation of the United States in Mexico." 

Such are the two events which have taken place in Mexico. Do you con- 
sider them very ominous 1 Afterwards, when some prospects of peace became 
apparent, the Monroe doctrine was brought out as a cloak for *he attempt, and 
it was claimed that reconciliation would facilitate the carrying out of the doctrine. 

But these hopes were disappointed, and these trifling incidents were forgotten 
among the preoccupations of war. You are doubtless aware that that war is still 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 633 

being carried on with painful activity. Yesterday's paper gave you the news of 
a frightful conflict between, the armies of Grant and Lee. 

And has the government of the United States been in any way affected by 
these mendacious rumors ? Have we been asked to justify ourselves 1 And 
would it not have been easy for us to have done so ] What had we done ? 
We had conceded to the South belligerent rights ! But how could we have done 
otherwise 1 Were we not obliged through this prolonged war to insure in so 
doing the rights of our maritime commerce and the neutrality of our position ? 

Have we gone beyond this necessary step in our diplomatic policy ? Have 
we a representative at Eichmond ? Has the government at Richmond an official 
representative at Paris ? Has not the French government continued to be offi- 
cially represented at Washington ? Our conceding belligerent rights to the 
South could not therefore constitute a serious cause for complaint. Have we 
then violated the rules of neutrality ? Never did a government take greater 
pains than ours did to respect the principles and to observe the international 
regulations oh this point. 

The causes of our conduct were evident, and allowed of no misunderstanding. 

Finally had we to justify ourselves in the eyes of the United States of that 
strange idea of founding a colony in Sonora. 

Gentlemen, this slanderous rumor soon died of its own accord, as it had no se- 
rious foundation. Hence, explanations took place — despatches passed between 
the two governments. What was the result ? 

On the 15th of December, 1864, the President of the Jnited States declared 
in his annual message that he intended remaining strictly neutral in the Mexi- 
can question ; and in March last in his re-election message he invited all nations 
to peace and Concord. 

Finally, when his representative at Paris communicated with the minister of 
foreign affairs, he gave his most loyal and satisfactory explanations. He dis- 
carded all these misapprehensions, all these fears of a conflict between the United 
States and France, as based upon a misunderstanding. He was able to say, 
you are accused of a desire of interfering in our affairs ; this excited the ire of 
the American press. America is a wise and thoughtful nation ; the loyal con- 
duct of France will regulate their conduct in return. Who can entertain any 
doubt about our course ? Have we not from the' very beginning of the war de- 
clared our firm intention of remaining neutral? [Approbation.] 

Thus when I look closely at the facts as they are to be looked at, in order to 
destroy those rumors which we meet with outside, and with which some attempt 
to create trouble for the imperial government, I can find in them nothing of any 
importance. 

If I should venture further ; if, instead of studying only the facts, I were to 
inquire into the doctrines and interests which are brought into play, then also 
would I find no cause to attach any importance to this chance of a conflict. I 
do not speak of the pretended guarantee which some claim to find in an indefi- 
nite extension of the war between the South and North. I look upon such a 
hope as impious. [Approbation.] The wish of the imperial government is that 
this war, which is injurious to the interests of all countries, may speedily come 
to an end. [Strong and general approbation.] It expresses no opinion as to 
the manner in which it wishes the conflict to terminate. It has no right to, for 
it respects the independence of the American people. But its most ardent wishes 
are for concord, and the day when peace shall be made will be for France, the 
old ally — and permit me to use this expression, the sponsor of the United States — 
a day of joy and -happiness. [Loud approbation.] 

Let us, then, not wish to see this terrible war prolonged for the sake of post- 
poning a conflict about Mexico. Have the United States any interest in enter- 
ing into such a conflict ? 

We have been told in the early part of this debate that the United States 



634 CONDITION OF AFFAIES IN MEXICO. 

once took Mexico and held it. They hastened to let it go upon its paying the 
expenses of the war. They would have us believe that the United States 
would have an interest in attaching the Mexican provinces. The contrary is the 
truth. What is the aim of the United States? The restoration of the Union 
in its former strength, in its. original condition of grandeur and prosperity, and 
free from slavery. Well, then, let us for a moment forget that our flag waves 
in Mexico, that our forces protect its frontiers ; would the United States have 
an interest in annexing it ? No, certainly, for it Avould be strengthening the 
South. Do you not see that Mexico, belonging to the United States, would be 
a standing threat of separation ] 

The interest of the United States is to cultivate friendly relations with Mex- 
ico, by means of trade and commerce. This is their true means of action and 
of conquest; the way is open to them, and it can but do good to all. [Appro- 
bation.] 

I do not insist on what has been said of possible inroads by filibusters land- 
ing on the Mexican coasts. The Hon. Mr. Oorta has disposed of that question ; 
he has reminded you that there are some four to five hundred leagues from Mat- 
amoras and the frontiers of the United States to Mexico ; that no vessel could 
be found sufficient to carry any number of troops to any point of the Grulf of 
Mexico or of the Pacific coast. Such expeditions have always proved fatal to 
their authors ; there is no occasion to fear them, and they could have no result. 

This phantom, then, has ceased to exist. There is no reason that we can see 
for France and the United States ceasing to be at peace ; these two powers will 
remain allies, remembering their old friendship, as well as the interests and sym- 
pathies which unite them. [Marked approbation.] 

And now, gentlemen, let us examine the amendment. How is it worded ? 

" We deplore more than ever the blood flowing in Mexico for the benefit of a 
foreign prince, the disregard of popular sovereignty, and our policy committed 
to an erroneous course. 

" We expect our troops to be recalled in accordance with the declarations of 
the government." 

Such are the views of the opposition. 

It would certainly require great courage for the majority to inflict on the gov- 
ernment such unjust reproaches as those contained in your amendment. [Ap- 
probation.] 

What ! Must I plead here again a cause so often heard and decided ? Must 
I recall the reasons which led to the Mexican expedition ? [No, no ; it is use- 
less.] Must I repeat, gentlemen, that you have decided over and over again 
that the cause which took us to those far-off shores was just ? Shall I have to 
vindicate the extreme prudence of the convention of 186] between the three 
powers bent on avenging the insults of their citizens ? Is there not in the fact 
of this union of three great powers uniting in the convention of 1861 a most 
complete and energetic answer to your painful amendment ? Do you believe 
England and Spain would have signed that convention with France had it con- 
templated a violation of national sovereignty 1 There is neither reason nor 
truth in all this. And I may add, while I am about it, that when you are 
told that the convention was not first submitted to the corps legislatif, the same 
might be said of England and Spain, two constitutional countries, two parlia- 
mentary governments such as some orators in this house like them. 

The convention of 1861 was not submitted first to the parliaments of either 
England or Spain, for such things are done even in parliamentary governments. 

We are told, gentlemen, that we can now make a treaty with the imperial 
government of Mexico ; that if we had some ground for refusing last year to 
make a treaty with Juarez or Almonte, we are now hi the presence of a regular 
government, and can make one with the emperor of Mexico. 

What sort of a treaty do you wish us to make 1 What treaty could we make 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 635 

with Mexico ? Have we not made the treaty of Miramar ? Does it not exactly 
define our position 1 Have not our debts been liquidated ? Have not the rights 
of our injured fellow-citizens been defined and guaranteed 1 What treaty are 
you talking about ? 

I really did not expect that the Hon. Mr. Picard would, for the sake of his 
arguments, revive that unfortunate advice formerly rejected. What ! Do you 
need to remind the house of your proposition to withdraw the troops from Mex- 
ico, made immediately after the repulse at Puebla ? Have you forgotten the 
feelings of indignation and the murmurs which that proposition excited 1 [Ap- 
probation.] Have you forgotten how the corps legislatif disposed of that pro- 
position last year of treating with Juarez and Almonte, and how it was ridiculed 
by the public? [Approbation.] No, there is nothing serious in all you say to us. 

The truth is that we have accomplished a great undertaking in Mexico ; that, 
legitimately called upon to avenge our wrongs in that extensive country, we 
have established in it order, civilization, and liberty; [approbation;] that we 
have driven out anarchy and civil war ; and that in a few years that country 
shall bless France, and contribute to the development of its commerce and 
grandeur. 

That our troops should remain a few months longer in Mexico ; that they 
should not return at the precise time appointed by you, as well as by Juarez 
also, what matters it indeed ? I am fully aware that, encouraged by reports 
from France, Juarez writes, " I shall weary them out and make the troops re- 
turn to Fiance ; France desires it." He believes it ! Well, let him know that 
he is mistaking the opposition of France. [Ironical laughter on many benches. 
Approbation.] 

M. Jules Favre. You are insulting the opposition. 

M. Ernest Picard. You are getting violent ; so you must be wrong. [Ex- 
clamations and murmurs.] 

The Secretary of State. I was not aware of being violent. [Laughter 
and approbation.] If to be violent is to be wrong, the opposition are in very 
great danger of being condemned by their own showing. [Appi-obation.] 

Yes, gentlemen, [the speaker faces the left,] you are more violent than ever 
we shall be in the name of the government; but you have an excuse, and I Will 
tell you what that excuse is. Do you know why you have sometimes allowed 
yourselves to be violent ? It is because you have neither legitimate grievances 
nor reasonable hopes. [Lively approbation.] If you had serious grievances 
public opinion would be on your side, and it is not. [Approbation, murmurs, 
interruptions.] 

M. Jules Favre. We have polled 180,000 votes in Paris. Try and get your 
candidates elected there. 

M. Chevandier de Valdbrome. Paris is not France. [Rumor.] 

M. Belmontel. The Emperor has had eight million votes. [Messrs. Picard 
and Jules Favre speak, but the noise does not permit us to hear what they say.] 

M. Eugene Pelletan. If public opinion is with you, give us the freedom of 
the press. [Various exclamations. General noise.] 

The President. You would prevent our doing so by your attacks. 

M. E. Picard. We ask the government always to appeal only to public opin- 
ion. [Continued noise.] 

The President. I invite the house to observe silence and abstain from inter- 
ruptions. The secretary of state has the floor, and I shall call to order any one 
who shall again interrupt him. 

The Secretary of State. Gentlemen, if I went a little too far in what I 
said, the opposition has sought to cover my responsibility. [Laughter and appro- 
bation.] You see how zealously they interrupt me. [Approbation.] 

But we must close this debate. [Yes, yes.] Well, I have said, and I repeat, 
that the French expedition to Mexico was a great thing ; that by that expedi- 



636 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

tion France has opened to civilization an extensive country. Let her flag remain 
there a few months longer to overcome the last obstacles to destroy those ban- 
ditti — the scum of revolutions. What matters a few months more 1 The end 
must be gained, the pacification complete. The dignity of France and that of 
the Emperor both require it. The French army must return to our shores only 
when its work shall be accomplished, and all the resistance it met with overcome. 
[Approbation and applause. | 

From all sides : The vote ! the vote ! 

The President. The vote on the amendment will be taken. 

M. Maguin. Mr. President, there is a demand for a ballot. 

The President. A demand for a ballot has been handed to me signed by 
Messrs. Jules Favre, Gamier Pages, Maguin, Marie, Dorian, J. Semen, Oarnot, 
Ernest Picard, Glais Bizoin, and Eugene Pelletan. In consequence, the vote on 
the amendment shall be taken by ballot. 

The ballot is taken and the result is as follows : 

Number of votes, 241; majority, 121. For the amendment, 16; against, 225. 

The corps legislatif does not accept the amendment. 



[Enclosure No. 2 to despatch No. 75.] 
CORPS LEGISLATIF. 

Session of Saturday, April 15, 1865. — Debate on the ame?uhnent of the 19th 
paragruph of the address. 

[Translated from the Moniteur, April 18, 1865.] 

President Schneider. Messrs. Bethmont, Camot, Dorian, Jules Favre, 
Gamier Pages, Glais Bizoin, Gueroult, Havin, Heron, Lanjuinais, J. Maguin, 
Marie, E. Pelletan, E. Picard, Jules Simons, move that at the conclusion of the 
nineteenth paragraph these additional words be appended : 

" We have declared from the commencement [of the war 1 ?] our sympathies 
for the United States of America. Thanks to their heroic efforts, slavery is 
abolished. 

" We shall rejoice to witness the re-establishment of the powerful republic 
of the United States, the natural ally of France, and we shall hail with joy a 
triumph which has cost nothing to the cause of liberty." 

Mr. Pelletan has the floor to develop this amendment. 

Mr. E. Pelletan. I do not desire either for the Chamber or for myself to 
prolong the debate, not even to pronounce an oration in extremis at the death- 
bed of our last amendment, for I suppose it will have no happier fate than its 
predecessors. [Noise : to the vote.] I have but a word to say upon this emen- 
dation, the object of which is to make reparation for an omission. In fact, no 
allusion to North America is made in the address from the Crown, nor in the 
draught of our address, (projet d'adresse,) nor even in the "Levie Jaune," which 
contains but a blank page for what concerns America. 

Now, the American question is sufficiently important to be treated with less 
reserve ; besides, at the present time, all discussion is useless, for at this very 
moment while I am speaking the victorious sound of Grant and of Sherman has 
decided the question. Richmond is taken. The slaveholding rebellion is stricken 
to the earth, and the American republic is reinstated in its majestic unity. 
[Noise.J Do not laugh, gentlemen ; you may be heard on the other side of the 
Atlantic. [Renewed noise.J For four years the United States of America 
have borne the weight of civil war, and never for an instant during the whole 
of this grievous ordeal have they entertained an idea of suspending the liberties 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 637 

of the people ; never have they opened the door- of arbitrary power through 
which crime so often finds a passage. [Votes ! votes !] The executive au- 
thority has been allowed to protect itself by legality under the fire of the enemy. 

This page of American history is the most illustrious page of the nineteenth 
century. 

President Lincoln has been fully aware that he held the destinies of the New 
"World in his hands, and he has shown himself equal to the emergency ; he has 
abolished slavery, and he has founded a second time the glorious American re- 
public. 

Numerous Voices. The votes ! the votes ! 

Mr. Ernest Pelletan. It seems to me that wherever anything great and 
admirable is done, there ought France to be present. For this reason I desire 
to send our heartfelt felicitations to the other side of the ocean. 

The amendment was rejected — 195 votes against it, and 24 for it, out of 219 
voting. 



No. 221. 

Mr. Hunter to Mr. Bigelow. « 

No. 2S7.] Department of State, 

Washington, October 19, 1865. 
Sir : Referring to your despatch of the 28th of March last, No. 66, relative 
to the claim of the Arizona Mining Company against France, on account of the 
seizure of a quantity of powder on the schooner William L. Richardson, I now 
transmit to you a copy of a communication of the 17th instant, from Messrs. 
Lewis & Cox, attorneys for that company. As it appears from the evidence that 
the powder in question was not intended for hostile purposes, and was destined 
to a place within the jurisdiction of the United States, I must request you to 
submit the claim to the reconsideration of the imperial government, and to sup- 
port it by such arguments as the facts of the case may, in your judgment, warrant. 
I am, sir, your obedient servant, 



John Bigelow, Esq , fyc, Sfc., 8fc. 



W. HUNTER, Acting Secretary. 



No. 222. 

M. Seward to Mr. Bigelow. 

No. 294.] Department of State, 

Washington, October 30, 1865. 

Sir : Your despatch of the 13th of October, No. 184, has been received. I 

thank you for the information you have given me of the manner in which my 

No. 264 was received by Mr. Drouyn de Lhuys, and I shall wait with interest 

for an account of the imperial purposes in regard to the matter therein presented. 

I am, sir, your obedient servant, 

WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 
John Bigelow, Esq., ^c, $c, fyc. 



638 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 



FRENCH LEGATION. 

Mr. Setcard to Mr. de Geqfroy. 

DEPARTMENT OF STATE, 

Washington, December 9, 1864. 

Sir : Referring to your note of the 12th ultimo, in regard to alleged con- 
struction in certain ports of the United States of vessels which are to be used 
as privateers, under letters of marque from President Juarez, of Mexico, I have 
the honor to enclose, in reply, a copy of a communication of the 26th ultimo 
from the War Department, from which it will be seen that all needful precau- 
tions, within the control of that department, have been taken to prevent the 
arming or fitting out of vessels to depredate on French commerce.- 

Accept, sir, the renewed assurances of my high consideration. 

WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 

Mr. L. de Geofroy, fyc, fyc, Sfc. 



Mr. Seward to the Marquis de Montholon. 

Department of State, 

Washington, August 16, 1866. 

Sir : I have the honor to call your attention to two orders or decrees which 
purport to have been made on the 26th of July last, by Prince Maximilian, who 
claims to be emperor in Mexico, in which he declares that he has committed the 
direction of the department of war in that country to General Osmont, chief of 
the staff of the French expeditionary corps ; and that he has committed the 
direction of the department of the treasury to Mr. Friant, intendant-in-chief of 
the same corps. 

The President thinks it proper that the Emperor of France should be in- 
formed that the assumption of administrative functions at this time by the afore- 
named officers of the French expeditionary corps under the authority of the 
Prince Maximilian, is not unlikely to be injurious to good relations between 
the United States and France, because it is liable to be regarded by the Con- 
gress and people of the United States as indicating a course of proceeding on 
the part of France incongruous with the engagement which has been made for 
the withdrawal of the French expeditionary corps from that country. 

Accept, sir, a renewed assurance of my high consideration. 

WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 

Marquis de Montholon, &fc., 8fc , 8fc. 



[Translation — with note of August 16, to M. Montholon.]- 
MAXIMILIAN, EMPEROR OF MEXICO. 

In consideration of the merits, combined with the qualifications of General 
Osmont, chief of the staff of the expeditionary corps, we have thought proper to 
commit to him the direction of the department of war. 
Given at Mexico the 26th July, 1866. 

MAXIMILIAN. 
By the Emperor : 

Jose Salazar Ylarreciui, 

Minister of the Interior. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 639 



MAXIMILIAN, EMPEROR OF MEXICO. 

In consideration of the merits, combined with the qualifications of Mr. Friant, 
intendant-in-chief of the expeditionary corps, we have thought proper to commit 
to him the direction of the department of the treasury. 
Given at Mexico the 26th July, 1866. 

MAXIMILIAN. 
By the Emperor : 

Jose Salazar Ylarrequi, 

Minister of the Interior. 



AUSTRIA. 

No. 223. 

Mr. Motley to Mr Seivard. 

[Extract.] 

No. 87] Legation of the United States 

Vienna, February 13, 1S65. 
g IR . # # # # * # ' 

Until those true peace negotiators, our great generals and admirals and out' 
magnificient armies and fleets, have destroyed the military power of the rebellion, 
we can hardly dare to hope for an effective counter revolution in the insurgent 
States. 

The European public is, however, already busy with speculations as to the 
series of events likely to follow the reconstruction of the Union, prominent among 
which, of course, are tremendous military movements by the combined veteran 
armies of the loyal and of the lately insurgent sections. 

The invasion of Canada and of Mexico without an instant's delay, the sweeping 
off from the American continent of every vestige of European dominion, from 
Behring's straits to the Isthmus, the revolutionizing of Ireland — a war with 
France and England, and I know not what besides — these are the phantoms 
made to dance about to appal the souls of fearful politicians. It is superfluous to 
say that such tricks to inveigle the rulers of Europe into rendering assistance 
at the last moment to the sinking rebellion are too shallow to have a chance of 
success'. 

I have the honor to remain your obedient servant, 

J. LOTHROP MOTLEY. 

Hon. William H. Seward, fye., fyc., fyc. 



No. 224. 

Mr. Motley to Mr. Seward. 

[Extract. ] 

No. 88] Legation of the United States, 

Vienna, February 26, 1865. 
Sir : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your despatches Nos. 123 
and 124, of dates of January 30 and February 7, both reaching me by the same 
post. 

yfi. ^Jc 2jc 3jc ?Jc ?K -K 

Nothing will suit the American people, when its government is once restored 
in its integrity, it appears, but an instantaneous onslaught upon Canada on the 
one side, aud upon Mexico on the other. 



640 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

The American mob, dripping in gore and domineering over a feeble government, 
(which, however, has become so entirely tyrannical as to have obliterated every 
vestige of popular liberty,) is about to rush forward to a war with France and 
England at once, not being half satisfied with the bloodshed of the last four years. 

As it is not possible to discover in our own country any respectable source of 
any such dire forebodings, one is forced to ascribe them to the guilty imagina- 
tions of public writers and stump-speakers on this side of the Atlantic. It is 
thought natural, perhaps, that the Americans, whose national character, public 
men, current history, whose noblest deeds and highest aspirations, have been, 
during the last four jears, the object of calumny, hatred, and persistent falsifi- 
cation altogether without example in history, in what used to be called " our 
mother country," stung by the memory of those insults and by the material 
injury inflicted upon their commerce by English pirates, may be disposed to 
avenge themselves when they feel themselves strong enough. And because the 
destruction of an unfortunate republic — our next-door neighbor — by the fleets 
and armies of the first military power in the world, does not seem exactly con- 
sonant to our ideas of right and to our national traditions, it is supposed that we 
shall consider it our duty to dethrone the new emperor by force of arms, even 
although the Mexicans should unequivocally manifest their desire to be gov- 
erned by him. I need not say that I have on proper occasions combated all 
these hysterical suggestions ; and until I am otherwise instructed, and until I 
see very different indications of the national tendencies from such as are now 
evident to me, I shall continue to maintain that the deai-est object of the people 
and of the government — which are one in the United States — is to preserve 
peace with all the world, and have no more bloodshed during this century if it 
can be avoided. 

****** * 

I have the honor to remain, sir, your obedient servant, 

J. LOTHROP MOTLEY. 
Hon. William H. Seward, 8fc., fyc, fyc. 



No. 225. 
Mr. Motley to Mr Hunter. 

No. 108.] Legation of the United States,' 

Vienna, June 5, 1865. 
g[R . * * * * * * 

The question of Mexico occupies a very large part of public attention in 
Europe, and the probable dangers impending over her new order of things, so 
far as established in that country, is a very fruitful topic of discussion in the 
journals. I have had no conversation, official or informal, on the subject with the 
imperial government. My personal views as to this adventure have been long 
ago expressed whenever fitting occasions offered, and the. position of the govern- 
ment of the United States has been fully set forth by my communication of the 
despatches of the Secretary of State according to his instructions. As I have 
often had occasion to observe, the imperial government has ever held itself aloof 
from the whole Mexican enterprise, and disavows responsibility for its results. 
I suppose that the United States government continues its diplomatic relations 
with the Mexican republic, and has no present intention of departing from the 
line of strict neutrality which it has laid down between the contending parties 
in that country, nor auy intention of lending assistance by underhand means to 
either belligerent. In case any change of attitude is contemplated, I beg to re- 
ceive as early instructions as possible, and I should be much gratified to be 
informed, if such a course be not inconvenient-, as to any important communica- 



CONDITION OP AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 641 

tions that may Lave been had on this subject at Washington or elsewhere. It 
is obvious that my position requires me to be at least as well instructed in this 
matter as other diplomatic representatives of the United States may be. 
I have the honor to remain, sir, your obedient servant, 

J. LOTHROP MOTLEY. 
Hon. William Hunter, 

Acting Secretary of State, Washington. 



PRUSSIA. 
No. 226. 
Mr. Wright to Mr. Seward. 
No. S.J United States Legation, 

Berlin, November 15, 1S65. 
Sir : I have had an interesting* conversation with Count Bismarck, minister 
of foreign affairs. My opinion is, he will in a few days modify and change the 
views as expressed in Baron Thile's communication, forwarded to you by my 
last despatch, in reference to the two sentenced criminals designed to be sent to 
the United States by the authorities at Erfurt. 

* # * * * * * 

The Paris correspondent of the Czas, a Polish paper published at Cracow, 
who derives his Mexican intelligence from the Polish generals and colonels in 
the service of the emperor Maximilian, and whose trustworthiness has been 
repeatedly tested by gentlemen in whom I place implicit confidence, states that 
the French government have opened negotiations with the imperial government 
of Mexico on the subject of the withdrawal of the French troops from Mexico 
within one or two years. The emperor Maximilian (the correspondent adds) 
is very unwilling to accede to the proposal, but the French Emperor insists 
upon his assent, giving him, however, to understand, if, at the time of the con- 
templated withdrawal of the troops, the state of things in America and Europe 
should render it proper for France to leave her troops in Mexico, arrangements 
will be so modified as to suit the then existing state of things. In the opinion 
of the same writer, this arrangement will be perfected in time for Napoleon to 
announce this fact at the opening of the next French Chambers, and it is in- 
tended to pacify the United States, on the one hand, leaving Napoleon, on the other, 
full liberty for the future. A few weeks will test the truth of this writer's pre- 
diction. I should say many of the diplomats at this court place full confidence 
in his statements. 

I have the honor to be, most respectfully, vour obedient servant, 

'JOSEPH A. WRIGHT. 

Hon. William H. Seward, 

Secretary of State. 



BELGIUM. 

No. 227. 
Mr. Sanford to Mr. Seioard. 
No. 236.] Legation of the United States, 

Brussels, February 1, 1865. 
Sir : M. de Balan delivered his letter of credence to the King as envoy ex- 
traordinary and minister plenipotentiary of Prussia near this court, on the 25th 
ultimo ; Prince de Reuss, who had been previously designated for this post, 
having been appointed to Munich. 
41 Mex. 



642 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

I have had the honor to receive in due course your despatches Nos. 154 to 
158, inclusive. 

I have the honor to be, with great respect, your most obedient servant, 

H. S. SANFORD. 

P. S. — Another detachment of the Belgo -Mexican Legion, and, I believe, the 
last, numbering about two hundred men, sailed for Vera Cruz, via Saint Nazaire, 
on the 14th ultimo. 

H. S. S. 
Hon. William H. Seward, 

Secretary of Stale, fyc, fyc, Sfc. 



No. 228. 

Mr. Sanford to Mr. Seward. 

[Extract.] 

No. 246.] Legation of the United States, 

Brussels, March 13, 1865. 

Sir : I had the honor to enclose to you in my despatch No. 214 the report 
of the debate in the House of Representatives on recruiting in this country 
for the Belgo-Mexican legion, and the result, viz., a vote on Mr. Bara's motion 
that "the house, in view of the formal declaration that the government has re- 
mained, and will continue to remain, completely aloof (Uranger) from the for- 
mation of a corps destined to serve in Mexico, passes to the order of the day." 

On the 24th ultimo the debate was again opened upon the subject, which is 
a thorn in the side of the government that the extremes of both parties 
appear to delight in vexing, upon the report of the committee to whom were 
referred two petitions touching the legality of these enlistments ; one of the 
petitions is by Mr. Vandenkerhove, a lawyer here, being a pamphlet of consid- 
erable volume, invoking on this subject the action of the laws, and more espe- 
cially the 92d article of the penal code, against recruiting in Belgium for foreign 
service. 

Five of the ministers of the government took part in the discussion, which 
was quite animated, and which served to bring forward the' fact of the personal 
sympathies in this enterprise of several of them, including the minister of 
foreign affairs, while at the same time all insisted that the government had not, 
as such, taken any part in it. A request was made of the minister of war for 
the documents bearing upon the formation of this legion, and these appear in 
the Moniteur of yesterday. 

After a day's discussion, the report of the committee, referring the petition to 

the minister of justice and of the interior, was adopted. 

******* 

The first, under date of the 25th of July, is a circular, signed in behalf of 
the minister, addressed to the generals commanding territorial divisions or 
army corps, " to give, without delay, to Lieutenant General Chapelie, pensionne, 
all the facilities which he may ask for the accomplishment of the mission with 
which he is charged." 

The second, under date of 3d September, (the day after the vote before men- 
tioned,) is a circular to the same authorities, as follows : " The intervention of 
the government, in accordance with the desire expressed by the House, of Rep- 
resent atives, being to remain aloof from the said organization of a Mexican 
corps, I have to recall to you that you can execute no act which can engage the 
responsibility of the government." 

These are accompanied by the royal decrees of 8th October and 19th No- 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 643 

vember, 1S64, and 10th February, 1865, authorizing officers and soldiers " to 
serve temporarily in the armies of his majesty the emperor of Mexico," and 
continue to them their Belgian nationality. 

According to the minister's statement in the house, 875 authorizations were 
given to officers and soldiers to enlist ; and according to statements made in the 
course of the debate, it would seem that the whole number recruited in the 
Belgo-Mexican legion was from 1,200 to 1,500. 

There have been difficulties, before referred to, growing out of the want of 
means and dissatisfaction of the soldiers, which have prevented the raising the 
2,000 originally contemplated, and complaints of the soldiers from Mexico, and 
their parents here, which are now beginning to be heard, will probably make 
this a sore subject for some time to come. 

I have the honor to be, with great respect, your most obedient servant, 

II. S. SANFORD. 

Hon. William H. Seward, 

Secretary of State, Sfc., fyc, fyc. 



No. 229. 



Mr. Sanford to Mr. Seicard. 
No. 252.] Legation of the United States, 

Brussels, April 12, 1865. 
Sir : I transmit herewith from the Moniteur the report of another debate 
which took place in the house on the 4th and 5th instant, upon interpellations, 
by M. Delaet, a member of the opposition from Antwerp, touching the organi- 
zation of the Belgo-Mexican corps of volunteers for the service of Mexico. 

No new facts of special moment were elicited during a discussion marked by 
considerable bitterness and violence of language. 

The following motion proposed by M. Coomans, of the opposition — "The 
house, regretting that the government has not remained completely aloof from 
the Belgo-Mexican expedition, passes to the order of the day" — was rejected by 
27 to 44 votes. The motion of M. Bara, that "the house, in view of the ex- 
planations given by the government, persists in its decision of the 2d September, 
and passes to the order of the day," was adopted ; the portion of the liberal 
party opposed to the Mexican expedition being evidently unwilling to aid the 
opposition in weakening or overthrowing the ministry. 

The most notable event in connection with this debate is that it appears to 
have led to a duel between M. Delaet and the minister of Avar, in which the lat- 
ter was slightly wounded. 

I have the honor to be, with great respect, your most obedient servant, 

II. S. SANFORD. 
Hon. William H. Seward, 

Secretary of State, fyc, fyc, Sfc. 



No. 230. 
Mr. Sanford to Mr. Seward. 
[Extract. ] 
No. 277.] Legation of the United States, 

Brussels, May 29, 1865. 
Sir : Mourning has been brought to many families here by the news from 
Mexico of the destruction of a detachment of the Belgian legion in a combat at 
Tamcaburo, in the State of Michoacan, on the llth of April. It is stated in the 



644 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

published reports that the whole detachment of about 300 men were either 

killed, wounded, or taken prisoners. Among the killed is a son of the minister 

of war, General de Cbazal, who was a captain, and seven other officers. * * 

I have the honor to be, with great respect, your most obedient servant, 

H. S. SANFORD. 
Hon. William H. Seward, 

Secretary of State, 5fc, Sfc , fye. 



No. 231. 

Mr. Savford to Mr. Seward. 

[Extract.] 

No. 284.J Legation of the United States, 

Brussels, May 31, 1SG5. 

Sir: The order of the day to the army, of the minister of war, upon the late 
disaster to a portion of the Belgian corps in Mexico, of which mention was made 
in my despatch No. 277, appeared in the Moniteur yesterday, and was the 
subject of interpellations by M. Coomans in the house, who expressed his 
regrets at this association of the Belgo-Mexican legion with the army of 
Belgium. 

M. Rogier replied that the minister of war had communicated the account 
received direct from the military cabinet at Mexico to the army and to the 
journals, for the information of all. A sentiment of pride in the gallant conduct 
of Belgians had, doubtless, influenced him in bringing it thus officially to the 
knowledge of their former companions in arms ; he insisted anew that the de- 
parture for Mexico of Belgian volunteers was not a government enterprise; 
that the Belgian legion, although for the most part going from the army, was 
not a part of it — did not serve under the Belgian flag or wear a Belgian cockade. 
There was nothing in this, he thought, to compromise the government. 

He was followed by M. D'Hane-Steenhuyse, who insisted anew upon the 
enrolment of the Belgian legion, composed, he said, in great part of soldiers of 
the army, who had left it for the purpose, ixnder the express authority of the 
government, and who might be considered as on leave, as compromising the neu- 
trality of Belgium, likely to expose its commerce to the attack of Juarez's 
privateers, and in the end to cause difficulties with the United States. 

M. Rogier, in reply, treated as absurd the possibility that, in case of an inter- 
vention by the United States in Mexico, Belgium would be held responsible for 
the presence of a thousand Belgians under the Mexican flag ; those Belgians 
had, moreover, he continued, contracted an engagement not to compromise the 
foreign relations of Belgium, and in the event of a regular war, could return 
home. As many Belgians, he affirmed, had served in the United States under 
the American flag during the late war as were now under the Mexican flag. 

M. Haymans considered the discussion useless ; that the Mexican question 
had been long ago decided by the Chambers, and on three occasions in the 
sense that there was no Belgium expedition in Mexico, and that if any power 
could find fault with Belgium under this head, it would be, least of all, the 
United States, which, according to him, had enrolled soldiers recruited every- 
where; and he again insisted upon the charges he had made, in a newspaper 
which he edits, that Belgians had been enrolled by force into the army of the 
United States after having been engaged here as laborers. 






CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 645 

I regret not having been supplied by the department with the refutation of 
these charges to which M. Haymans referred, and which were brought to your 
knowledge in my despatch No. 222, accompanying the letter of M. Rogier on 
the subject. 

A copy of the " answer of the governor of Massachusetts to inquiries respect- 
ing certain emigrants, who have arrived in this country from Europe, and who 
are alleged to be illegally enlisted in the army of the United States, &c," 
printed at the Government Printing Office, came into my hands a short time 
since, through a private source, and appears to be a complete refutation of these 
charges. I immediately, on reading the debate referred to, took it to the foreign 
office and left it for M. Rogier, who was out, with the request that, if it had 
not already been brought to the attention of the government by its own agents 
in the United States, he would take cognizance of it ; and I propose seeing him 
to-morrow to repeat the hope I expressed to the secretary general, that he would 
have the justice to correct the impression which his silence on the occasion of 
M. Haymans's assertions would seem likely to make on the public as indorsing 
these scandalous statements. 

I have the honor to be, with great respect, your most obedient servant, 

H. S. SANFORD. 

Hon. W. Hunter. 



ITALY. 

No. 232. 

Mr. MarsJi to Mr. Hunter. 

[Extract.] 



No. 119.] Legation of the United States, 

Turin, May 15, 1S65. 

Sir : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your instruction of 
April 17, 1865, with the official announcement of the assassination of the Pres- 
ident of the United States. I immediately communicated a copy of this an- 
nouncement to the minister of foreign affairs, and have received a reply, of 
which a translation is annexed. 

I have received a considerable number of addresses, resolutions, and other 
expressions of condolence with the people of the United States on this sad 
event, which I»shall forward to Washington by the first private conveyance. I 
retain them in the mean time, because they would form a package somewhat 

bulky for the mails. 

# * # # # # # 

There are in circulation many rumors of a projected alliance between France,. 
Austria, Italy, and Spain for the maintenance of the new imperial dynasty in 
Mexico, at a cost, even, of a war with the United States ; and a visit of Gen- 
eral Cialdini to Spain, at this moment, is suspected by some to be connected 
with a negotiation for this end. The whole thing seems extremely improbable 
as to some of the powers in question, and supremely absurd as to the best in- 
terests of all of them. In such a crusade I can hardly believe that this or any 
other European government, except, perhaps, England, would have the sup- 
port of its own people ; and so transparent an attempt to put down reptiblican- 
ism in America as this would be, might very probably teach European states- 
men that democracy is a much more powerful element of opposition to measures 
of despotic policy than they, at this moment, consider it. 



646 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

The session of parliament is not yet closed, and the minister of foreign affairs 
is still here, but the transfer of all the public offices to Florence will probably 
be completed before the month of June, and I intend to go to that city in the 
course of the present or the next month. 

I am, sir, respectfully, your obedient servant, 

GEORGE P. MARSH. 
Hon. William Hunter, 

Acting Secretary of State. 



No. 233. 
Mr. Marsh to Mr, Hunter. . 

No. 1.21.] Legation" of thk United States, 

Florence, June 5, 1865. 

Sir : I left Turin on Tuesday last and came immediately to tins city. I 
shall make my arrangements for a permanent residence here as rapidly as pos- 
sible, though, for reasons stated in a former despatch, I shall be obliged to 
make occasional visits to Turin, until I can secure proper apartments for my 
family, and the convenience of the legation, which is by no means an easy task. 
Mr. Clay preceded me by a few days, and has taken lodgings which will serve 
as an office until a better provision is made. 

The foreign office is now established at Florence, although one branch of it, 
the diplomatic council, as well as some other public offices, still remain at the 
former capital. 

I saw General La Marmora on Saturday. He inquired, into our present and 
probable future relations with Mexico, with no small interest, and I know from 
various sources that this subject is now occupying the serious attention of Ital- 
ian statesmen of all shades of political opinion. In case the Emperor Napoleon 
shall decide to send large re-enforcements to Mexico, I have no doubt whatever 
that Italy will be called upon to furnish a contingent, and the leading article in 
the Opinione, a semi-official organ, which I sent to you by the last post, was 
doubtless intended to prepare public opinion in Italy for such an event. 

The pending negotiations with Rome are looked to with much anxiety. 
Nothing authentic has transpired as to the character of the instructions of the 
Italian envoy. ****** 
I have the honor to be, sir, your obedient servant, 

GEORGE P. MARSH. 

Hon. William Hunter, 

Acting Secretary of State. 



No. 234. 

Mr. Marsh to Mr. Seward. 

[Extracts.] 

No. 123.] Legation of the United States, 

Florence, June 29, 1865. 
Sir : Although I am not officially informed that you have so far recovered as 
to be able to resume the discharge of your functions of chief of the State De- 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 647 

partment, I infer from the newspaper accounts that you are again at your post, 

and I accordingly address this despatch to you. 

* * # # • * * 

You have certainly better means than I can have of judging of the intentions 
of the French Emperor with regard to Mexico and the United States, but I cannot 
help attaching some importance to the tone of the Italian ministerial press, and 
of all the Italian journals in the French interest, in regard to this question. 
They are evidently still aiming to prepare the public mind for a call from France 
for a contingent to the French army of occupation in Mexico, and for a possible 
rupture with the United States. How far these journals speak from ministerial 
inspiration, and how far from French suggestion, it is hard to say. * 

The negotiations with Rome will be resumed as soon as the preliminary elec- 
tions are over ; and if the present ministry remains in power new concessions 
will be offered, provided it suits the policy of France to require them. Many 
suppose the settlement of the Roman question to be especially desired at this 
moment by Napoleon, in order that both his troops and those of Italy be less 
embarrassed in their Mexican movements, but I shall be much disappointed if a 
Gallo-Italic transatlantic war does not end in a Gallo-Italic revolution at home . 
I am, sir, your obedient servant, 

GEORGE P. MARSH. 

Hon. William II. Seward, Secretary of State. 



ROME. 

No. 235. 
Mr. King to Mr. Seward. 



No. 33.] Legation of the United States at Rome, 

March 4, 1865. 

Sir : I am reminded by the date of my letter that on this day our honored 
President renews his vow of devotion to the Constitution and laws of our 
country, and enters upon the second term of his administration. 

****** 

I availed myself of an opportunity during the current week to converse with 
the French ambassador, the Count de Sartiges, about affairs in Mexico, and the 
rumor, very current in Europe, that Maximilian had ceded certain provinces to 
Napoleon as security for material and financial aid, of which ex-Senator Gwin 
was to be viceroy, and which was to form the nucleus of a " confederate " 
colony. The count treated the story as an absurdity, and repeated what he 
said to me some months ago, that the Emperor of the French would withdraw 
all his troops from Mexico at the earliest opportunity. 

Bishop Lynch is still in Rome, though in no accredited official position. I 
hear, however, that he and those who sympathize with him profess confident 
hopes of some European demonstration in behalf of the so-called Confederate 
States on or immediately after this the 4th day of March. I do not myself 
entertain any apprehensions on the subject. Europe has enough to do at home, 
while the United States of America have abundantly proved that they can take 
care of themselves, and neither ask nor fear any foreign intervention. 

I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, 

RUFUS KING. 

Hon. William II. Seward, Secretary of State. 



648 CONDITION OF AFFAIKS IN MEXICO. 

No. 236. 
Mr. King to Mr. Seward. 

[Extract.] 

No. 36. | Legation of the United States at Rome, 

April 22, 1866. 
Sir : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of despatch No. 26, from 
the State Department, under date of March 7, in reply to mine of February 11, 
and expressing satisfaction with the contents thereof. 

?K 5JJ 5J£ SfC SjC 5fC 

The Franco-Italian treaty continues to excite lively discussions in the diplo- 
matic and political circles of Europe. It is not easy, in the midst of the varying 
opinions expressed and the conflicting rumors circulated, to predict with confi- 
dence the results of that convention. The chief interest hinges upon the future 
status of the Pope, and the probabilities of his leaving or remaining in Rome, 
in the event of the withdrawal of the French troops. I had a long conversa- 
tion with the French ambassador, Count Sartiges, on this topic a day or two 
since. The count expressed the belief that matters were approaching a crisis ; 
that the Pope was pressed by conflicting counsels, one party (the ultra-montane) 
urging him to abandon Rome, and the other opposing such a step as suicidal ; 
that the issue was with the Holy Father himself, who thus far, at least, was 
strongly disinclined to leave the Vatican. That in his, the count's, judgment, 
the departure of the Pope from Rome would be the signal for a general convul- 
sion in Italy, if not throughout Europe, and that the peace of the world might 
depend upon the Pope's remaining in the imperial city, where he thought his 
person would always be secure and his authority respected. Count Sartiges 
further informed me that the Pope had addressed an autograph letter to Victor 
Emanuel, with a view to bring about a conference touching the questions of 
church and state, in issue between the papal and Italian governments, and that 
within a few days an accredited representative had arrived in Rome from Victor 
Emanuel, charged with a reply to the papal missive. He regarded this, he 
added, as a very important step in the right direction, for that would be the 
happiest possible solution of the problem, which, leaving the spiritual power of 
the Holy Father unquestioned, should sustain his temporal authority by Italian 
bayonets. I have given quite fully the substance of the French ambassador's 
remarks, as I thought them very significant and based upon intimate knowl- 
edge of the facts. 

Passing from Italian topics we conversed briefly about American affairs. The 
count said that he regarded the last news as entirely conclusive and the war as 
substantially at an end. His ajDprehension then was that some trouble might 
grow up between the United States and Maximilian. He did not fear any hos- 
tile or aggressive action on the part of our government; certainly not, he said, 
so long as the State Department continues to be managed by the same able 
statesman who had presided over it during the past four years ; but there was 
danger that forty or fifty thousand desperate or adventurous men, thrown out 
of active service by the return of peace, might, at any moment, cross over from 
the southwest into Mexico, while there never would be wanting a Juarist chief 
to issue a pronunciamiento and give to the movement the color of a revolution. 
I assured the count that, peace once restored, the aim and policy of our govern- 
ment and people would be to cultivate friendly relations with all mankind, and 
that so long as our rights were respected and fair treatment extended to us we 
should be the last power to resort to war. 

I cannot close this despatch without tendering to our honored President and 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 649 

his faithful cabinet my heartfelt congratulations upon the glorious successes 
which have crowned the Union arms and cause. " Thanks be to G-od who 
giveth us the victory!" 

I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, 

RUFUS KING. 
Hon. William H. Seward, Sfr. , Sfc., 8fc. 



Xo. 237. 

Mr. King to Mr. Seward. 

[Extract.] 

Xo. 40.] Legation of the United States at Rome, 

. May 24, 1865. 

Sir: Since my despatch of May 13, nothing has transpired in Rome calling 
for special mention. The discussion to which I referred in my last, as to the 
result of the pending conference or correspondence between the Pope and 
Victor Emanuel, is still going on in diplomatic and political circles. It is 
doubtful, however, whether any material progress has yet been made towards a 
solution of the different questions involved. The return of M. Vegezzi, the 
envoy of Victor Emanuel, is daily looked for here, and it is generally supposed 
that he will bring with him some definite proposals on the part of the King of 
Italy. The feeling of opposition to any compromise or reconciliation between 
the Pope and the King does not seem to abate either with the ultra-montane 
party in the church or the radicals among the people, and the hope of a favora- 
ble issue to the negotiations appears to be less strong than it was a fortnight 
since. 

Among the rumors received from America by the last arrival was one which 
has created some excitement and elicited a variety of comments on this side of 
the Atlantic. It is that which refers to the proposed "emigration" of many 
disbanded officers and soldiers of the federal army to Mexico, with the view of 
taking service under Juarez. The course which Maximilian has pursued to- 
wards the church since he ascended the throne of the Montezumas has cost 
him a large share of the popularity which he enjoyed at Rome a year ago, and 
there were not a few of the Catholic dignitaries who expressed the hope that 
the Austrian archduke may speedily find it advisable to return to Europe. 
Some of the French journals, accepting the rumor as a fact, see in it a threat 
against France, and seek to hold the federal government responsible for any 
movement of the kind. In conversing, however, last evening on this subject 
with the French ambassador, Count Sartiges, I was glad to hear him express 
the utmost confidence that, so long as the State Department at Washington 
continued to be guided by the same able hands and wise counsels which had 
controlled its action during the past four years, there need be no fear of any 

difficulty or misunderstanding between the United States and France. 

***** **** 

I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, 

RUFUS KIXG. 
Hon. William H. Seward, fyc, fyc, Sfc. 



650 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

No. 23S. 

Mr King to Mr. Hunter. 

No. 41.J Legation of the United States at Rome, 

June 2, 1865. 

Sir : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of the circular from the 
State Department, under date of May 16, enclosing two copies of the Presi- 
dent's proclamation of May 10, relative to insurgent cruisers, one of which I 
am directed to communicate, without delay, to the government to which I am 
accredited. In accordance with these instructions, I this morning presented to 
the cardinal secretary of state a copy of the proclamation in question, with a 
brief explanation of its contents. 

I availed myself of the opportunity to converse Avith his eminence on the 
subject of American affairs. He rejoiced, he said, to see that the war was en- 
tirely over, and that the questions remaining to be disposed of were of trifling 
importance compared with the great one which had been so effectually settled. 
Alluding to the capture of Jefferson Davis, the cardinal expressed the hope that 
the government might find it consistent with its views of duty to spare the life 
which he had forfeited to the outraged laws of his country. I remarked to his 
eminence that of one thing at least he might rest assured — that no feeling of 
vengeance would dictate the course pursued, and that fewer victims would fall 
at the close of our great civil war than in any other similar struggle recorded in 
history. 

The cardinal adverted to our existing relations with England and France, 
and the causes which might disturb them. Of these he seemed to think that 
Mexico was the most prominent. I assured his eminence that the American 
government would not permit any "filibustering" expedition to be fitted out in 
the United States, with a view to upset Maximilian and expel his French pro- 
tectors from Mexico. At the same time I expressed the belief that the Austrian 
archduke could not maintain his authority there without foreign help, and when 
that was withdrawn — as it shortly must be — he would probably follow in their 
footsteps. The cardinal coincided in this opinion, and added that when con- 
sulted on the subject by Maximilian, upwards of a year ago, he had cautioned 
the Austrian prince against undertaking the enterprise. All that his eminence 
said, indeed, confirmed the view taken in my last despatch, as to the feeling now 
entertained by the papal court towards Maximilian and his projected empire on 
the western continent. 

I mentioned to the cardinal that, within a few days past, Bishop Lynch, of 
Charleston, South Carolina, a reputed confederate agent, had applied to me, 
through a friend, to know upon what conditions he would be allowed to return 
to South Carolina and resume his clerical functions. The cardinal remarked, 
in reply, that the bishop had never been received or recognized in any way as 
an accredited representative of Jefferson Davis, and that, like every other good 
Catholic, resident in the United States, it was his bounden duty to honor, re- 
spect, and obey the constituted authorities of the government under whose 
protection he lived. 

The envoy of Victor Emanuel, M. Vegezzi, is expected to return to Rorne on 
Monday next. This is another step forward in the pending negotiations be- 
tween the Pope and the King of Italy ; but no prediction can yet be safely 
hazarded as to the final result. 

I am, with great respect, your obedient servant. 

RUFUS KING. 

Hon. W. Hunter, 

Acting Secretary of State. 






CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 651 

NETHERLANDS. 

No. 239. 

Mr. Pike to Mr. Hunter. 

No. 16G.J United States Legation. 

The Hague, May 17, 1865. 

Sir: I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your despatches of the 
21st, 22d, 24th, and 28th of April, Nos. 228, 229, 230, and one not numbered ; 
also your two despatches of May 2, Nos. 230 and 231, (also No. 232,) the 
latter containing the gratifying intelligence of the continued improvement in the 
condition of the Secretary of State and the Assistant Secretary. 

The rapid progress of military events during the month of April has taken 
everybody by surprise by their remarkable completeness, Europe views our 
final triumphant successes with the liveliest interest. They have alike dis- 
appointed the hopes and falsified the confident predictions of the ruling classes 
here, with few exceptions. The question now uppermost with all is, "What 
will become, of the intrusive emperor of Mexico?" 

On the reception of the news of the surrender of Johnston with the remaining 
forces of the rebellion I addressed a note to the minister of foreign affairs, of 
which I enclose a copy. 

I have the honor to be, with great respect, your most obedient servant, 

JAMES S. PIKE. 

Hon. William Hunter, 

Acting Secretary of Slate, Washington. 



No. 240. 
Mr. Pike to Mr. Seward. 

[Extract.] 

No. 178.] United States Legation, 

The Hague, October 18, 1865. 

Sir : I am without any of your favors excepting yours of the 2d instant, 
No. 552. * * * * # * * * 

The recent publication by the British government of the late correspondence 
between Earl llussell and Mr. Adams on the Alabama and kindred claims 
has largely occupied public attention. The apparently positive announcement 
that the English government will not submit those claims to arbitration excites 
a little uneasiness. 

The report (I suppose unfounded) of a recent peremptory correspondence of 
our government with France on the Mexican question has had a similar effect. 

The popular mind is alert to snuff the daily apprehension in the conduct of 
the now "great republic." 

Following the scornful taunts of the last four years, these apprehensions are 
not, perhaps, unnatural. 

I have the honor to be, with great respect, your most obedient servant, 

JAMES S. PIKE. 

Hon. William H. Seward, 

Secretary of' State. 



652 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

SWEDEN AND NORWAY. 

No. 241. 
Mr. Campbell to Mr. Seward. 

[Extract.] 

No. 3.] Legation of the United States, 

Stockholm, September 27, 1864. 

Sir : In my despatch of the 20th instant I had the honor to inform you of 
my arrival here, and of an interview with Count Manderstrom, his Majesty's 
minister of state and of foreign affairs. Upon the return of the King from Ou- 
land, on the 23d instant, I received a note from Count Manderstrom informing 
me that my audience with his Majesty would take place at the palace on Satur- 
day, the 24th instant, at three-quarters past one o'clock p. m., and a subsequent 
note informing me that on Sunday, the 25th instant, I would be presented to her 
Majesty the Queen at the royal palace of Ulriksdale. At the appointed time 
on Saturday I was accordingly taken in charge by the grand master of cere- 
monies and King's chamberlain, and conducted in the King's carriage, with the 
usual ceremonies, to the palace. My interview with his Majesty, after the cus- 
tomary salutations, was cordial and unceremonious ; I could not have been re- 
ceived more kindly by any gentleman in Europe. In delivering my letter of 
credence, I assured his Majesty that I was charged to convey to his Majesty 
the distinguished consideration and personal regards of the President of the 
United States, and to express the earnest desire that the amicable relations, 
both commercial and political, existing between the government of the United 
States and that of his Majesty, might be perpetuated. I took occasion to say 
during the interview that the President of the United States felt assured that 
the same enlightened judgment and experienced statesmanship that so ably di- 
rected affairs in his Majesty's kingdoms secured to the Executive and people 
of the United States, engaged in sustaining an established and Christian gov- 
ernment, his Majesty's profound sympathy. The King reciprocated my friendly 
expressions, and avowed himself sincerely desirous of continuing amicable rela- 
tions with the government of the United States. 

My subsequent interview with the Queen at Chateau Ulriksdale was as agree- 
able as interesting. Her Majesty was pleased to make many inquiries about 
the productions, climate, and people of my country, and appeared well informed 
concerning the United States. A note from Count Manderstrom informs me 
that the Queen Dowager Josephine will grant me audience at her country-seat 
of Dottingholm on the evening of, and immediately before, the ball to be given 
by her to their royal highnesses the prince and princess of Wales. On that 
occasion I will probably be presented to the other members of the royal family, 
thus completing the ceremony of reception. 

In this connection I may with propriety state that in my audiences with their 
Majesties 1 was preceded by Mr. Mora, envoy extraordinary and minister pleni- 
potentiary of the emperor of Mexico. At a dinner given by Count Mander- 
strom, minister of state and of foreign affairs, the various honors which Swedish 
etiquette permits upon such occasions were bestowed upon the representatives 
of the continent of America, being distributed between the Mexican envoy, the 
retiring American minister, and his successor. The reception of Mr. Mora in 
his official capacity by the King will, it is believed, be followed by the estab- 
lishment of a minister plenipotentiary of Mexico near his Majesty, unless cir- 
cumstances of marked significance mar the plans of the emperor of that country. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 653 

The Swedish military and naval departments having in charge the subject of 
military mining, have of late been making a series of experiments under the 
direction of Colonel J. P. Shaffner, who claims to be a loyal citizen of Kentucky, 
in the Malar lake. Colonel Shaffner claims to be able to explode a mine in 
water, or in earth, at any distance, say within twenty miles, with fuzes so con- 
structed that there cannot be a failure of explosion instantaneously. The ap- 
paratus, or battery, is so portable that a youth can carry it from point to poiut, 
and so simple that it is always ready for use. He can explode one mine or one 
hundred at the same time or consecutively. I have seen the wrecks of the gun- 
boats destroyed by Colonel Shaffner experimentally. Their destruction was 
complete. He has been able to explode a mine here at a distance of one and 
one-half mile, want of additional wire having limited the experiment to that 
distance, while the military authorities here having the subject in charge were 
only able to pass a spark over six hundred feet of wire. 

Military men have informed me that during the battle of Alsen Colonel Shaffner, 
at 5 a. m., was ordered to mine a narrow strip of land, having the sea on both 
sides, over which the Danish army was obliged to retreat. Before 9 o'clock 
a. m. the mine was finished, and for a period of three days fifteen thousand 
Prussians remained in sight of the Danish army, not daring to traverse the 
mined territory. When the royal commission shall report upon the invention 
and experiments of Colonel Shaffner, I shall take pleasure in forwarding a copy 
to the Department of State. 

I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, 

JAMES H. CAMPBELL. 

Hon. William H. Seward, 

Secretary of State, fyc, fyc, fyc 



No. 242. 

Mr. Campbell to Mr. Scioard. 

[Extract. 

No. 7.J Legation of the United States, 

Stockholm, November 5, 1864. 

Sir : I have to acknowledge the receipt from the department of despatches of 
October 5, No. 2 ; October 10, No. 47, (addressed to Mr. Haldeman ;) October 
13, No. 3, and October 17, No. 4. 

An early opportunity was embraced by me to say to Count Manderstrom, in 
pursuance of instructions contained in your despatch No. 2, that the appoint- 
ment of Baron Nils de Wetterstedt as envoy extraordinary and minister pleni- 
potentiary to Washington was duly appreciated as a mark of the friendly regard 
of his Majesty towards the United States ; and I further assured Count Man- 
derstrom that the Baron de Wetterstedt would be cordially welcomed by the 
President as the representative from the King of Sweden and Norway. 

Count Manderstrom expressed much gratification at the intelligence, and 
remarked that the Baron de Wetterstedt was well known at Washington. 

I have not been able to learn, after diligent inquiry, that the insurgents are 
making any efforts at present to purchase vessels or ordnance within the limits 
of this legation. 

I have the honor to be, with great respect, sir, your obedient servant, 

JAMES H. CAMPBELL. 
Hon. William H. Seward, 

Secretary of State, fyc, fyc, fyc. 



654 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

No. 243. 

Mr. Campbell to Mr. Seward; 

No. 9.] Legation of the United States, 

Stockholm, December 13, 1864. 

Sir : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt, on the 11th instant, of 
your despatches No. 7, of the 18th November, and No. S, of the 19th November 
last. 

In accordance with instructions contained in despatch No. S, I sought an 
early interview with Count Manderstrom, minister of state and of foreign affairs. 
His excellency received me with his usual cordiality, and hastened to commu- 
nicate the contents of despatches announcing the progress and success of our 
armies in Georgia, under General Sherman. I then opened the business with 
which I was charged, by saying that my government had learned with regret 
that the Baron Nils de Wetterstedt had been despatched to Mexico, on business 
of a diplomatic nature, as the envoy of his Majesty ; that while on a recent 
occasion it had afforded me great pleasure to express on the part of my govern- 
ment sentiments of appreciation and welcome, in accordance with the high offi- 
cial and private character of Baron Wetterstedt, I was now pained to say to 
his excellency that his. official errand to Mexico was far from being satisfactory 
to the United States, and that if it did not prevent his official reception, it 
would certainly impair the cordiality of his welcome ; that in thus speaking I 
did not exceed the letter or spirit of my instructions. 

Count Manderstrom here expressed regret that the mission of Baron Wet- 
terstedt should be thus regarded by the United States ; and argued that not 
having reached Washington, or been officially received by my government, he 
could not be considered as minister to the United States while on his errand to 
Mexico. 

To this I answered, that the note of his excellency, on file in the Department 
of State at Washington, announcing the diplomatic trust confided to the Baron 
Wetterstedt, and the reply of welcome on the part of the United States, cer- 
tainly established inchoate relations in the contemplation of both governments. 

Count Manderstrom then assured me that the fact complained of did not 
originate in any want of respect to the government of the United States ; that 
it had not been practicable or desirable for the governments of Europe to main- 
tain relations with Mexico in her former disturbed condition ; that the empire of 
Mexico was now the only government in that country ; that it had, through 
diplomatic agencies, claimed, and received, recognition of most of the powers of 
Europe, and he did not think the United States could complain of Sweden 
adding her recognition to that of her neighbors. 

I rejoined, that the United States maintained amicable and full relations with 
the republic of Mexico, and knew no other government in that country ; that 
she regarded with disapprobation the attempt to establish on her borders insti- 
tutions inimical to her own ; that while the right of recognition, claimed by 
all sovereign states, involved responsibilities, I was not instructed to make that 
the ground of complaint in this instance. But it must be apparent to his excellen- 
cy, in view of the distinctly enunciated sentiments of my government, that any 
intercourse with the so-called empire, through the envoye to the United States, 
must be regarded by them with displeasure. 

Count Manderstrom then remarked, he understood, and thought he was not 
mistaken in saying, that Russia and Belgium had directed their respective 
representatives at Washington, Mr. Stoeckl and Mr. Blondeel von Ceelebroeck, 
to proceed to Mexico on similar errands. I contented myself with observing, 
that upon this fact, or the consequent action of my government, I was not in- 
formed. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 655 

The minister of foreign affairs then, with great earnestness and warmth, re- 
peated his assurance that no disrespect to the United States had been intended. 
He reminded me of the long-established friendship of Sweden for the United 
States, and her consistent avoidance of recognition, or assistance to the confed- 
erate rebels, and the frequent aid his Majesty's subjects had rendered in our 
armies, thus showing the sympathy which our cause received here, and he sin- 
cerely hoped the good understanding heretofore existing might not be inter- 
rupted. I expressed the appreciation of the government of the United States 
for the friendship of Sweden and Norway, and assured him I should take plea- 
sure in conveying the sentiments declared by him to rny government, and rose 
to leave. Count Manderstrom accompanied me to the door, hoping that I would 
convey the full import of his expressions of respect and amity to my govern- 
ment, and with much frankness. added, taking my hand in his, " My dear sir, it 
Avas simply a question of economy ; Russia has done the same thing, and you 
know," said he, laughingly, "you are very good friends with Russia.' "Not 
better than we have been with Sweden," said I, and took my leave. 

In the course of the conversation Count Manderstrom remarked that Baron 
Wetterstedt would only remain in Mexico about five days. 
I have the honor to be your obedient servant, 

JAMES H. CAMPBELL. 

Hon. Wjlliam H. Seward, 

Secretary of State, fyc, fyc, Sfc. 



No. 244. 

Mr. Seivard to Mr. Campbell. 

No. 11.] Department of State, 

Washington, January 10, 1S65. 
Sir: Your despatch of the 13th of December, No. 9, has been received. 
Count Manderstrom must have been misinformed. Russia has not directed Mr. 
Stoeckl to leave his mission here to perform a duty in another quarter — such as 
the count supposes. The United States acknowledge with pleasure the rela- 
tions of cordial friendship existing between themselves and Russia. But this 
friendship is neither more intimate nor more cordial than that which the United 
States desire to preserve with Sweden. They would deeply regret any oc- 
currence that should show that this desire is not reciprocated on the part of 
Sweden. 

I am, sir, your -obedient servant, 

WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 
James H. Campbell, Esq., fyc, Sfc., Stockholm. 



TURKEY. 

No. 245. 

Mr. Morris to Mr. Seward. 

[Extract.] 

No. 108.] Legation of the United States of America, 

Constantinople, March 29, 1S65. 
Sir : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of despatch No. 86, of the 
date of February 11, and to transmit a translation of the note of Ali Pacha, min- 
ister of foreign affairs, to the Turkish minister in London, relative to the question 
of religious toleration in the Turkish empire. 



656 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

It is important that the views of the Turkish government on this subject 
should be put on record among our own state papers, that the religious commu- 
nity in the United States may understand to what extent the free exercise and 
teaching of Christianity is allowed in the dominions of the Sultan, and to what 
restrictions it is subjected. As the American missionaries in Turkey have never 
made themselves amenable to any of the accusations of this note, it is unneces- 
sary for me to repel tbem on their part. 

In despatch No. 96 I mentioned that the government of the Sultan had ap- 
pointed Haidar EfFendi as special envoy to the government of the emperor 
Maximilian, to reciprocate the complimentary mission of Martinez del Rio. It 
now appears that no minister will be accredited by the Porte, in any capacity, to 
Mexico. 

;)c * ' * * * * * 

I have the honor to be, with great respect, your obedient servant, 

E. JOY MORRIS. 
Hon. William H. Seward, 

Secretary of State. 



No. 246. 
Mr. Morris to Mr. Hunter. 

[Extract.] 

No. 115.] Legation of the United States of America, 

Constantinople, May 18, 1S65. 
Sir : I have the honor to transmit, enclosed, addresses of condolence on the 
death of President Lincoln from the British residents of Constantinople and the 
printed account of the proceedings in connection with the same, and from the 
native Protestant community of this place, through their head Mr. Seropyan. 

General Marquez, a special envoy from the so-called emperor Maximilian of 
Mexico, has arrived here for the purpose of delivering to the Sultan the decor- 
ation of the Order of Guadalupe. 

I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

E. JOY MORRIS. 
Hon. William Hunter, 

Acting Secretary of State. 



No. 247. 

Mr. Morris to Mr. Hunter. 

[Extract.] 

No. 116.] . Legation of the United States of America, 

Constantinople, May 25, 1865. 

Sir : I have the honor to transmit a letter of condolence on the part of the 
Shah of Persia and one from the Greek minister of foreign affairs to the Greek 
consul at New York. The letter has been communicated to me by the minister 
of Greece to the Porte, by order of his government, with the request that I should 
forward it to my government. 

The object of the visit of ^General Marquez, the special envoy of the so- 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 657 

called emperor Maximilian, is limited to the purpose designated in my last de- 
spatch. The grand vizier declares to be without foundation the report that the 
Porte will give him its sanction for the incorporation of the Egyptian blacks 
into the imperial army, and of a further contingent of black troops from Egypt. 
He said, in reply to my inquiries on the subject, that the Porte would have 
nothing to do with such an affair. I learn, however, that General Marquez 
expects to receive at Vienna four battalions and a regiment for the service of 
Maximilian. The soldiers enlisted in Europe for this purpose are needy adven- 
turers, whom necessity, and not sympathy with the imperial cause, has induced 
to accept the proffers of the agents of Maximilian. They are not such a class 
of men as can be relied on to support a government in the hour of adversity. 
The desire to get to America also is so great that men will embrace any pre- 
text to compass their wishes in this respect. Never was there a time when the 
hearts of the million masses of Europe throbbed so warmly to the United 
States as now, and never was there less sympathy with any movements di- 
rected against the spread of our political principles on the American continent. 
******* 

I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

E. JOY MORRIS 
Hon. William Hunter, 

Acting Secretary of State. 



No. 248. 

Mr. Setoard to Mr. Morris. 

No. 93.] Department of State 

Washington, September 21, lb>'. 

Sir : A despatch has been received at the department from Mr. Hale, ageui, 
and consul general of the United States at Alexandria, announcing that nine 
hundred negroes from the Soudan or upper country of Egypt, within the juris- 
diction of the Pacha, were expected shortly to arrive at Alexandria to be em- 
barked in French transports for Mexico, to relieve the contingent which was 
sent out in January, 1863. The latter proceeding, as you are aware, excited 
much comment at the time, but it passed unnoticed by this government, which 
was then seriously occupied with a peculiar condition of merely domestic affairs, 
and with the foreign embarrassments which grew out of that condition. Since 
then the United States have abolished slavery. The attention of Congress as 
well as that of the executive department and of the country has been very 
steadily fixed upon the course of events in Mexico, which I need not say form a 
subject of serious concern with regard to the safety of free republican institu- 
tions on this continent — an object with which we are accustomed to connect the 
desired ultimate consequence of the abolition of every form of compulsory 
civil or military servitude on this hemisphere. 

You are instructed to bring this matter to the attention of the Turkish gov- 
ernment, and to state that, in the opinion of this government, the renewal of the 
transaction referred to could not be regarded with favor, or even without deep 
anxiety, by the people of the United States. It will be proper for you to in- 
form the minister for foreign affairs that I have written upon the subject in the 
same sense herein adopted to the diplomatic agent of the United States at 
Paris, and to the consul general at Alexandria. 
I am, sir, your obedient servant, 

WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 

E. Joy Morris, Esq., fyc, Sfc, Constantinople. 
42 Mex. 



658 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

No. 249. 

Mr. Morris to Mr. Seward. 

No. 130.J Legation of the United States of America, 

Constantinople, October 29, 1865. 

Sib : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of despatch No. 93, dated 
September 21, relative to the negro troops about to be sent from Egypt to Mexico. 
In conformity with the instructions from the department, I have made his High- 
ness Ali Pacha, minister of foreign affairs, acquainted with the contents of the 
same. He informed me that the Ottoman government was in nowise connected 
with the sending of the original contingent of negro troops from Egypt to Mexico ;. 
that it first became cognizant of the transaction through the public prints, and 
that at my request in 1863 it had addressed the late viceroy on the subject. He 
replied by telegram (and it was the last communication received from him, for he 
was then in a dying condition) that it was an inconsiderate act on his part, of 
which he deeply repented, but tbat it was then too late to recall the engagement 
he had contracted with the French Emperor. The affair was altogether surrep- 
titious- so far as the consent of the Porte was necessary to its authorization. 

His Highness further observed that the present Pacha of Egypt, during hi& 
visit here last summer, had represented the great embarrassment he felt on this- 
subject; that a request had been made to him by the French Emperor for a fur- 
ther contingent of negro troops to supply the losses occasioned by war and disease 
in the ranks of those originally sent, and that he deemed himself in some degree 
constrained by courtesy to a friendly sovereign and the example of his predecessor 
to comply with the request, and that he desired to know if the Porte would inter- 
pose any objections. 

His Highness replied to this inquiry, after consultation with his Majesty the 
Sultan, that the Porte must not be considered as privy to the transaction ; that it 
was originally entered upon without its knowledge or approbation, and that while, 
owing to the peculiar circumstances of the case, it would now insist on the can- 
celling of the obligations already contracted with the French Emperor by the vice- 
roy, it must express the hope that this would be the last of such an impolitic pro- 
ceeding. The Pacha assured his Highness that the wishes of the Porte would, in 
this respect, be complied with. His Highness added that none of these negroes 
were slaves. He said that the minister of Maximilian at this court, General Mar- 
quez, had never spoken to him on the matter. 

In conclusion he remarked that the Porte entertained a sincere feeling of respect 
and friendship for the government of the United States ; that it regarded it as its 
natural ally ; that it admired the principles of equity and justice by which its in- 
tercourse with other nations was regulated, and, as he had often assured me, his 
Majesty the Sultan, and all the members of the Ottoman government, most cor- 
dially rejoiced in the re-establishment of the integrity of the American Union, 
and, as I was also aware, their sympathies during the late civil war had invariably 
been on the side of the constituted government of the United States. He begged 
me also to convey to the President of the United Slates the assurance that the gov- 
ernment of his Majesty the Sultan desired to be understood as having no wish to 
interfere directly or indirectly against the interests of the government of the United 
States or of those of the American people, but that, on the contrary, it would be most 
happy to promote them whenever the occasion offered. 

I have the honor to be, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

E. JOY MORRIS. 

Hon. William H. Seward, 

Secretary of State. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 059 

EGYPT. 

No. 250. 
Mr. Hale to Mr. Seward. 

No. 41.] Agency and Consulate General of the U. S. of America, 

Alexandria, Egypt, August 26, 1865. 

Sir : Nine hundred negroes from the Soudan or upper country of Egypt, 
within the jurisdiction of the Pacha, are expected shortly to arrive at Alexandria 
to be embarked in French transports for Mexico to relieve the contingent fur- 
tively sent out in the month of January, one thousand eight hundred and sixty- 
three. I must give the Pacha credit for putting me in possession of full and 
early information on the subject in the most frank possible manner. On this 
occasion, at least, there is nothing clandestine about the proceeding. I told 
him that I regretted to hear of the movement, and wished, at least, that it 
might be delayed. He said that it was simply the execution of an agreement 
made between his predecessor, Said Pacha, and the Emperor of the French, 
three years ago; that the number of soldiers in service would not be increased 
by a single unit ; that the number was inconsiderable, being only one battalion, 
or the fourth part of a regiment, and not exceeding nine hundred in all, officers 
included. He gave me the most positive assurance that it is not proposed to 
increase this number. The Pacha then fell into a line of conversation which, 
especially as he expressed a wish that it might be regarded as confidential, it 
is not necessary to report in detail, more than to say that he expressed to me 
no interest, wish, or expectation to see the successful establishment of an empire 
in Mexico under French auspices. He ridiculed the small effective results 
reached by the French in their efforts at colonization everywhere, and pointed 
with some pride to the small number of troops with which he keeps order in 
his own dominions compared to the great number of French troops always in 
service in Algeria, citing the recent pamphlet of the Emperor of the French 
for proof that, after all, that country is not well governed. He regards the 
sending out of this relief corps as a necessary act of humanity to the Egyptian 
negroes who are now in Mexico, while he thinks that he cannot in good faith 
escape the maintenance of a small force there in respect of the engagements 
entered into by his predecessor. The whole cost of the movement, which is 
" enormous," is paid by the French government. The Pacha made this point 
with emphasis, using the word "enormous" (or rather, its French equivalent) 
no less than three times, and betrayed evident satisfaction that the expenses do 
not come out of his own purse. 

The circumstances of the original movement are described in the despatch of 
my predecessor No. 27, under date of January 18, 1865. Mr. Thayer addressed 
most energetic remonstrances to Said Pacha, and to his minister, and obtained a 
positive assurance that the number of the contingent should not be increased. 
Said Pacha was then actually on his death-bed, and his demise is reported in 
the same despatch. Of one ground of remonstrance to the movement suggested 
by Mr. Thayer, namely, the violation it implies of the suzerainty of the Porte, 
it may be remarked, in addition to the fact that it has heretofore proved futile, 
and to other reasons which exist for not pressing it at this time, that as the 
Pacha has just returned from Constantinople, it may not be improbable that he 
has prepared himself with the necessary permission. 

In the course of the conversation the Pacha told me that the Egyptian army 
list numbered about twenty thousand, of whom, as I understood, about eight 
thousand are in active service in various parts of the country. From other 
sources I have learned that the mortality in the army, from cholera, has been 
frightful. The Pacha, however, remarked that only one of his negroes had died 
from yellow fever in Mexico, saying that it appeared that the negro constitution 



660 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

was proof against such maladies. I hinted to him that if he can spare a few 
hundred soldiers peculiarly fit for service in Mexico, the United States hare 
lately had under arms more than one hundred thousand of the same race. These 
men would be, in like manner, peculiarly fit for service in Egypt if the vicious 
principle of interference which supports the empire in Mexico, to which the Pa- 
cha lends his soldiers, should at any time be retaliated by us. Hitherto we 
have practiced the contrary principle, and have expected other governments to 
respect it, at least so far as America is concerned ; and, without intervening our- 
selves in Oriental politics, " what the Pacha has done in Mexico at the request 
of another power, the United States might do in Egypt at the request of some 
friendly power." 

These and other arguments, of course, might be pressed upon the Egyptian 
government, to prevent the departure of the relief. What I have already said 
to the Pacha will serve very well as a foundation for any formal communication 
in the way of an objection or protest that you may think advisable to instruct 
me to make ; or, in case it is deemed best to let the matter rest without further 
remark, I think you need not hesitate to believe that, while the Pacha cannot 
very readily get rid of the subsisting engagement made by his predecessor, he 
has wit enough of his own to see that his sending troops to America, however 
inconsiderable in number, is a thing not particularly agreeable to the people of 
the United States, and that it would be very foolish for him to do anything 
more that might have the effect to provoke an intervention of the United States 
against him in some possible turn of Egyptian affairs. 

No doubt you will regard the sending of this relief from Egypt in connection 
with the recruiting in Europe for the Belgian and Austrian legions for service 
in Mexico, the renewal of the French forces there, and other matters, of the 
views of the government with regard to which I am not apprised. 

My audience with the Pacha took place at Cairo yesterday, and the overland 
mail which must take forward this despatch is already announced. But, unless 
upon reflection (for which as yet I have had little time) I should conclude to 
make a formal representation in writing to the Egyptian government, addressed 
to the minister of foreign affairs, I shall content myself for the present with the 
general remarks I have already made verbally to the Pacha, awaiting your 
further instructions. 

Although the arrival of the negroes from the upper country may be expected 
at any time, everything moves so slowly in Egypt that it would not be at all 
surprising if it were to be considerably delayed. 

I have taken advantage of the departure of one of the American missionaries 
for the upper country to arrange for timely confidential information of their 
coming. 

I believe nothing is known of the matter in general circles here. It had not 
been mentioned to me by any of my colleagues. 

I was gratified on the 19th instant by the receipt of your instruction No. 10, 
of July 24th. 

I have the honor to be, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

CHARLES HALE. 

Hon. William H. Seward, 

Secretary of State. 



No. 251. 

Mr. Seicard to Mr. Hale. 
No. 13.] Department of State, 

Washington, September 21, 1865. 
Sir: Your despatch of August 26, No. 41, has been received. It announces 
that nine hundred negroes from the upper country of Egypt, within the juris- 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 661 

diction of the Pacha, are expected shortly to arrive at Alexandria, to be em- 
harked in French transports for Mexico, to relieve the contingent which was 
sent ont in January, 1863. The latter proceeding, as you are aware, excited 
much comment at the time ; but it passed unnoticed by this government, which 
was then seriously occupied with a peculiar condition of merely domestic affairs, 
and with the foreign embarrassments which grew out of that condition. Since 
then the United States have abolished slavery. The attention of Congress, as 
well as that of the executive department and of the country, has been very 
steadily fixed upon the course of events in Mexico, which, I need not say, form 
a subject of serious concern with regard to the safety of the free republican in- 
stitutions of this country, an object with which we are accustomed to connect 
the desired ultimate consequence of the abolition of every form of compulsory 
civil or military servitude in this hemisphere. 

You are instructed to bring this matter to the attention of the Pacha's minis- 
ter for foreign affairs, and to state to him that, in the opinion of this govern- 
ment, the renewal of the transaction alluded to could not be regarded with favor, 
or even without deep anxiety, by the people of the United States. It will be 
proper for you to inform the minister that I have written upon the subject, in 
the same sense herein adopted, to the diplomatic agents of the United States 
residing respectively at Paris and Constantinople. 
I am, sir, your obedient servant, 

WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 

Charles Hale, Esq., fyc, fyc, Alexandria. 



No. 252. 

2Ir. Hale to Mr. Seward. 

[Extract.] 

No. 44.] Agency and Consulate General of the U. S. of America, 

Alexandria, Egypt, October 27, 1S65. 

Sir: I received on the 19th instant your No. 13, under date of 21st Septem- 
ber, and lost no time in writing to the minister of foreign affairs, who is now in 
Cairo, in the exact sense of your instruction. No answer has yet been received ; 
but this is not remarkable, for the minister would naturally take the instruction 
to the Pacha, who has been making an excursion on the Nile so far as Minieh, 
from which he did not return to Cairo until the morning of the 25th. 

Colonel Stanton, the British agent and consul general, to whom I had com- 
municated the substance of my information at the end of August, and who had 
transmitted it to his government, called on me on the 20th instant (that is, the 
day after I had received your instruction) and informed me that he had the in- 
structions of his government to remonstrate against any forcible and compulsory 
deportation of Nubians from Egypt to serve under the French flag in Mexico. 
I believe these are the exact words of his instruction. 

I may mention that the British hold the Egyptian authorities to a very exact 
fulfilment of their promises for the abolition of slavery. It is certain that slavery 
still exists in Egypt ; but any slave who can manage to get before the British 
consul is sent with the dragoman of the consulate to the local court, where his free 
papers are demanded and are accorded. In this way Mr. Reade, British consul 
at Cairo, and Mr. Stanley, British consul at Alexandria, have secured the manu- 
mission of at least twenty each (probably a larger number) since I have been 
here. In one instance it was a slave woman who had escaped from a Pacha's 



'662 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

harem and fled to Mr. Reade's house. Her master followed and tried to per- 
suade her to return. She was firm, and he was obliged to give her up, although, 
no doubt, she had cost him a large sum. Mr. Stanley, within a fortnight, has 
secured the freedom, in a similar manner, for two or three people escaped from 
the service of a high officer in the Egyptian navy. 

It has, no doubt, occurred to Colonel Stanton, and the suggestion, no doubt, 
would be approved by Lord Russell, that the same principles which led Great 
Britain to object to forced labor on the Suez canal, and to involuntary domestic 
servitude in Egypt, apply to compulsory military drafts here for service in 
Mexico. 

Soon after my despatch No. 41 was forwarded, one of the local papers here 
reproduced, in Italian, a letter, probably from the Independence Beige, connect- 
ing Nubra Pacha's visit to Paris with this business. It was stated in this letter 
that the Egyptian government would place several regiments at the disposal of 
France to re-enforce the army of occupation in Mexico, and that the question of 
money was all that remained to be settled between the Egyptian and French 
governments. 

The French local paper printed the day before yesterday some extracts from 
a paper, by the Count de Keratry, in the Revue des Deux Mondes, extolling 
the good service of the Egyptian troops in Mexico. 

* # * # * * * * 

Meanwhile there is no intelligence of the coming of the negroes. A consid- 
erable body of Egyptian troops, perhaps as many as four or five thousand, have 
just come to Alexandria, and are quartered in the barracks at Ras-el-tin. These, 
however, are not negroes ; a considerable portion of them are new recruits, and 
it is said they are brought here for purposes of drill. 

A detachment of French soldiers, from Cochin China, has also just arrived 
from Suez at Alexandria, and is said to be waiting the arrival of transports to 
take them back to France. Meanwhile they are quartered on board the hospi- 
tal ship, which is the only French government vessel now in this harbor. 

Three Austrian men-of-war lately arrived and still remain in the harbor. 

I shall keep this despatch open until the latest moment before the departure 
of the mail packet, in order to be able to send any additional information which 
I may be able to obtain. 

I have the honor to be, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

CHARLES HALE. 



No. 253. 

Mr. Hale to Mr. Seward. 

[Extract.] 

No. 45.] Agency and Consulate General of the U. S. of America, 

Alexandria, Egypt, November 13, 1865. 
Sir : Although I have not yet received a formal answer from the minister for 
foreign affairs, there is no room to doubt that the proposed deportation of 
negroes from Egypt for military service in Mexico has been abandoned ; and 
there is even some reason to believe that the trouble in the Soudan, which has 
been assigned in Paris as a reason for the abandonment of the expedition, was 
caused, if not wholly, at least in part, by the detestation entertained by the 
people, and especially among the men enrolled for military duty, for the distant 
service to which it was feared they were to be sent. His Highness the Pacha 
has not returned to Cairo, and has not remained in any one place more than one 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 663 

or two days since the date of my last despatch, and I must wait quite unwillingly, 

■but probably not longer than the next post, before I can complete my report on 

this subject. 

******** 

I have the honor to be, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

CHARLES HALE. 
Hon. William H. Seward, 

Secretary of State. 



No. 254. 

Mr. Hale to Mr. Seicard. 

No. 46.] Agency and Consulate General of the U. S. of America, 

Cairo, Egypt, November 18, 1865. 

Sir : On the 16th instant I called on his excellency Cherif Pacha, minister 
for foreign affairs, having come from Alexandria for the purpose on the prece- 
ding evening. 

The minister courteously made excuses for his delay in answering my note of 
20th October, in which I had communicated to him the observations contained 
in your instructions to me, No. 13, of the 21st September. He told me that he 
was ready to give me an answer that would be in all respects satisfactory to 
my government. 

I said that I was glad to hear this, and that if he could conveniently send me 
his- answer that day or the next, I could communicate its substance by telegraph 
to Queenstown, in season to reach you, to be laid before the President before 
the opening of Congress. He said that he would do so. 

We then dropped into a less formal conversation, when I was surprised to 
learn that the Egyptian government had not abandoned or even scarcely sus- 
pended the proposed expedition of negroes to Mexico. The minister expected 
that you would be entirely satisfied to have the expedition go on, if you were 
assured that the number of the force now in Mexico would not be increased, and 
that the soldiers were not slaves ; and such was the substance of the formal an- 
swer he was about to send me. 

As regards the first part of this answer, nothing else was ever proposed, and 
I told the minister that you could not have understood that anything else was 
proposed. His Highness had very clearly explained to me that the nine hun- 
dred negroes were to be embarked to relieve the contingent sent out in January, 
1863; that I reported the proposition exactly in those words, although it was 
observed that nine hundred was the number given to me, while four hundred and 
fifty was the number stated to Mr. Thayer in 1863, and reported by him. No 
remarks had been made even upon this discrepancy. I spoke of the expedition 
in my despatch as a relief; you began your instruction by rehearsing the words 
of my despatch in the usual manner, and that your observations must be taken 
as based upon the distinct understanding that it was proposed to send out the 
negroes to relieve the contingent already in service. 

The minister seemed to take it for granted that the compulsory service of the 
negroes not only formed the whole objection to the affair in the eyes of the peo- 
ple of the United States, but that if that objection were removed by assurances 
on his part they would be entirely satisfied to see the expedition go forward. 

I told the minister that I knew nothing of personal knowledge of the circum- 
stances of the embarcation of 1863, but I knew how it was described by Mr. 
Thayer, and what was the general opinion not only in the United States but in 
Alexandria, where the story of those days in January, 1863, when no black 



864 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

boas (door-keeper) could be pursuaded to open a door at night for fear of being: 
crimped, and when many black servants ran away to hide for a week in the 
desert, while the embarcation for Mexico was going on, was still familiar in many 
households ; and I had supposed that there was no doubt of the furtive and se- 
cret character of the proceeding. 

With regard to this last remark the minister said, no doubt the embarcation 
in 1863 was sudden and secret, but this was for a political reason, namely, that 
it was necessary to keep the thing from the knowledge of the Porte until it was 
all over; as the whole proceeding at that time was against the Sultan's will, it 
was arranged to have it finished before his remonstrance could arrive. 

To conclude the conversation, however, I told the minister that his Highness 
had said to me expressly that he should not send the negroes except for the en- 
gagement of his predecessor to the Emperor of the French ; that appreciating the 
position of his Highness, you had addressed your observations to the govern- 
ments at Paris and Constantinople as well as to his own, and that I knew that 
the French government had been good enough, while assigning a special reason 
and reserving its general abstract right, to give up the affair on its part, after re- 
ceiving your observations, and that I should be sorry if the Egyptian govern- 
ment, after receiving the same observations, found no reason to change the course 
that had formerly been proposed. I added that the announcement made by Mr. 
Drouyn de Lhuys to Mr. Bigelow to this effect was made independently of the 
matter of compulsory service, which had not been discussed between them until 
after this previous point had been disposed of, and then only as a matter of ab- 
stract interest ; that Mr. Drouyn de Lhuys had expressly told Mr. Bigelow that 
the inquiries he proposed to set on foot here with regard to the nature of the 
service in the Egyptian army were to satisfy himself, and not as a matter of offi- 
cial concern to his government. 

Oherif Pacha said this put an entirely new face on the affair, and could scarcely 
credit the accuracy of my information. To satisfy him I sent to my hotel for 
the copy which Mr. Bigelow had kindly transmitted to me of his despatch to you, 
No. 186, reporting his interview with the French minister. I read to Oherif 
Pacha the principal parts of this despatch, and afterwards, at his request, fur- 
nished him with a translation into French. 

In sending to Oherif Pacha this translation, I wrote anote to express what was 
already understood between us, namely, that this was not precisely an official 
communication ; that I was waiting his answer to my official note of the 20th 
October, and that meanwhile I was willing to add to his information upon the 
subject. I begged his particular attention to the fact that the note of the 20th 
October conveyed your observations upon understanding that the proposed ex- 
pedition of negroes to Mexico was to replace the contingent now in service there. 
I said that whatever reason might be assigned, the thing needed to tranquillize 
public opinion in the United States would be to hear that his Highness had been 
good enough to declare that he did not intend to renew the expedition of Egyp- 
tian soldiers to Mexico; that a replacement would be considered as a renewal; 
that if he liked to make a reserve of his rights in the manner pursued by the 
French minister, in saying that the proposed expedition was not abandoned, but 
that in effect it would not take place on account of domestic reasons, I should 
be satisfied with this, but that of course a definitive abandonment would give 
us great pleasure ; that I believed France would make no objection to it ; among 
our people in America it would be regarded as a new proof of the friendship of 
his Highness, and everywhere in the world it would be regarded as a proof of his 
noble wisdom in the interests of humanity, since, without giving to the service of 
the Egyptian negroes in Mexico the name of "slavery," it must be admitted 
would not be an agreeable thing for the soldiers,.as his Highness himself had told 
me with all possible frankness when expressing his anxiety to replace the men 
now in that service by others. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 665 

The substance of the preceding paragraph, and nearly in the equivalent words 
in French, was written and sent to the minister, you will understand, with the 
view of influencing his answer to the note of the 20th October. He kept my 
messenger waiting a short time, however, and sent back by him his formal an- 
swer to that note, a translation of which answer is hereto appended and marked A. 

As this formal answer to your observations will of course attract your partic- 
ular attention, I make no remark upon it. 

At the same time the messenger brought back a less formal note from the 
minister, in which he acknowledged the receipt of my last note, saying that for 
the present he could only refer me to our conversation of the morning, repeating 
that it gave the subject a new phase, of which the Egyptian government re- 
served for itself the examination, and that meanwhile he hastened to send me 
his official answer to your observations. 

I believe that I have faithfully represented these communications, but for your 
greater assurance 1 transmit herewith, marked B, C, D, and E, copies of the 
originals of everything that has passed in writing, beginning with my note of the 
20th October, in which I endeavored to give exactly the sense of your observa- 
tions, continuing with the minister's official answer, (of which the translation is 
the piece marked A,) and concluding with our less formal correspondence of the 
16th instant, already described. 

The telegraph wire between Alexandria and Malta had just broken ; but the 
steam packet to the latter port leaves to-morrow, takes forward to Mr. Bigelow, 
in Paris, a telegraphic message to the effect that the Egyptian government say 
the insurrection is suppressed, and that the expedition of negroes may go for- 
ward. I have also written to him fully. 

A French transport has arrived in the harbor of Alexandria with troops for 
Cochin-China, who have been disembarked and have taken the railway for Suez. 

With regard to the question of the compulsory service of the soldiers in the 
Egyptian army, and especially that of the blacks from the upper country, I 
hardly know what I may say with propriety in an official communication. I 
have reason to believe that Mr. Outrey, the agent and consul general here of 
France, was annoyed at being called upon by Mr. Drouyn de Lhuys to make a 
report upon this siibject. Even to an entirely disinterested observer it might 
be difficult, in a country where the civil government is absolute, to distinguish 
- between compulsory service in the army and military service everywhere ; to 
distinguish between a levy in the Soudan and the conscription in France. It 
would remain to weigh the evidence in such cases as are reported to have oc- 
curred in filling the number of the contingent at Alexandria in January, 1S63. 
If the object desired is merely to satisfy the private judgment of a candid ob- 
server, something might be learned from the various books of modern travel in 
Egypt. The difficulties which embarrass the subject when approached as a 
matter of discussion among governments are illustrated by the fact — reported 
in my last despatch but one — of the frequent release of negroes from slavery 
iu Egypt by the interposition of the good offices of the British consulates. The 
Egyptian government may point to these instances as so many proofs in sup- 
port of the assertion proudly made in the minister's answer to your observa- 
tions, " Slavery no longer exists in Egypt ;" for whenever the consulates bring 
forward an instance of the contrary, the man is immediately freed. Others 
would perhaps regard these instances as disproving the proposition insisted on, 
or at least as illustrating that it is not of universal application. 

I shall endeavor to collect the most authentic and also the most available 
testimony within my reach, without loss of time, but should be glad of your 
instructions as to the manner and degree in which it may be advisable to push 
inquiries. 

I have the honor to be, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

CHARLES HALE. 

Hon. William H. Seward, Secretary of State. 



666 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO 



[Translation.] 

Ministry of Foreign Affairs, 

Cairo, November 16, 1865. 
Monsieur V Agent et Consul General : 

I have gladly received the despatch which you did me the honor to address 
me under date of the 20th October last, for the purpose of presenting in the 
name of your government the observations suggested to it by the expedition by 
his Highness of a battalion of negroes, of which the departure has been hitherto 
delayed by an insurrection in the Soudan, now suppressed, and who are destined 
to replace in Mexico those who were sent thither in 1863. 

If your government had not thought proper to make any remark previously 
on this subject, you say this was because the government was too much occu- 
pied with internal affairs, and also because it had not then decreed the abolition 
of slavery. The government of his Highness, whose sympathies for that of the 
republic of the United States cannot be doubted for a moment, accordingly 
thinks it of the first importance to give explanations to the latter, which I take 
pleasure in believing will reassure it completely with regard to the bearing and 
the composition of the expedition in question. In fact, the situation of 1863 
has not been modified ; there has been no change to affect it. The Egyptian 
government, at the request of a friendly power, thought itself competent to 
make certain engagements in which its neutrality did not appear to be in any 
way compromised, and in which it was very far from thinking that it would 
•ever incur the disapproval of the United States. 

The French government, in making a request for the replacement of the con- 
tingent now in service by a new battalion, of which the composition remains 
exactly the same, and his Highness the viceroy, in agreeing to the request, do 
but obey the laws of the simplest humanity. It i3 three years, in fact, that these 
men have been living far from their country, where most of them have left their 
wives and children ; home-sickness {la nostalgie) has made more gaps in their 
ranks than the climate or the fire of the enemy. In all countries of the world 
such considerations are thought worthy of regard, and the Egyptian government 
would have had a bad appearance not to accept their significance. Moreover, it 
would have been very difficult, not to say impossible, to escape the consequence 
of an agreement which put at the disposal of the French expedition to Mexico a 
certain number of men, strong and well fitted for the military service. The 
honor of the flag, and the respect due to its engagements, then, united in requir- 
ing that the government of his Highness should receive with favor a request 
which had in its eyes the advantage of restoring, not only to their native country, 
but to their separate homes, a certain number of these men, who were chosen 
originally from the soldiers of the garrisons of Cairo and Alexandria, and who 
had a right to their discharge by reason of the expiration of the period of service 
due to the state. 

In the material point of view, then, we have merely to deal with a simple sub- 
stitution, and there is, in truth, no reason for anxiety at a situation which remains 
the same that has existed for three years past. 

In the moral point of view, the objection appears to me still less well founded. 
It is based on the fact that, at the date of the first expedition, the United States 
had not decreed the abolition of slavery. 

Thus, in the opinion of the cabinet of Washington, the Egyytian soldiers who 
make part of the French expedition to Mexico are to be regarded as slaves, and 
their stay there as contradicting the great measure of humanity which has freed 
all their brethren in America. 

Permit me, sir, to protest on my side against the expression of an error so 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 667 

clear. Slavery no longer exists in Egypt. It was abolished there long before 
it was abolished in the United States by the many sacrifices and glorious efforts 
on the part of the defenders of the Union. The negroes in the Egyptian terri- 
tory are subjects of his Highness by the same title and with the same rights as 
the other natives of the country. In serving under our flag they obey a law 
of conscription equal for all. Regulations limit the period of service due by 
each man to the country, and the length of this period is proportioned to the 
number of the population. 

This is not all. In virtue of a principle made applicable as long ago as the 
reign of our illustrious Mehemet Ali, all slaves enrolled under the flag become 
free in full right. 

The good conduct of some of these soldiers since they have been in Mexico 
has been pointed out by the geueral-in-chief of the expedition to the French 
government, which has not hesitated to award to them crosses and medals of 
honor ; others have been proposed to the Egyptian government by the same 
general-in-chief for similar distinctions, and even for promotion to the grade of 
superior officers ; and the Egyptian government has made haste to recognize 
their merit. 

I appeal to yourself, sir, is there a country in the world where soldiers who 
were merely slaves would be treated with so much regard and would enjoy so 
much consideration 1 ? 

I rely, then, with all confidence on your co-operation to make known the 
details, to transmit these loyal explanations to the government of the United 
States, and to reassure it respecting the true condition of these Egyptian 
negroes. I take pleasure in hoping that, better informed than before, your 
government will be good enough to see nothing in this expedition but the simple 
replacement of one battalion by another in conformity with the terms of an 
understanding ; a replacement of which the necessity is demanded by the laws 
of humanity and the rules of justice ; at the same time that it is imposed upon 
his Highness by the benevolent interest which he feels for all his subjects with- 
out distinction. 

Be pleased to accept, sir, the assurance of my high consideration. 
The. Minister of Foreign Affairs, 

CHERIF PACHA. 



B. 



[Translation. ] 



Agency and Consulate General of the 
United States of America in Egypt, 

Alexandria, October 20, 1865. 

Your Excellency : At an audience which his Highness accorded me on 
the 25th of August last, he was so good as to give me some explanations about 
the circumstances under which the Egyptian government proposes to send nine 
hundred negroes to Mexico to replace the troops of the same kind which were 
sent there in the month of January, 1863. 

Having thereupon made report to my government, without failing to set forth 
the noble frankness with which his Highness expressed himself in giving me 
on this subject all the details without reserve, I have just received instructions 
from my government. 

I must say to you that the previous expedition in 1863, although it may have 
made room for many comments, was let pass by the government of the United 
States of America without remark, because it was at that time very much en- 
gaged with exceptionally complicated domestic affairs and with foreign difficul- 



668 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

ties. But since that epoch the United States have abolished slavery. Our at- 
tention is steadily fixed on the course of events in Mexico, a subject which 
seriously affects the security of republican institutions on the American conti- 
nent, with which we are accustomed to connect the so much desired ulterior 
consequences of the abolition of all compulsory servitude, civil or military, in 
the western hemisphere. 

I am therefore ordered, Mr. Minister, to bring the affair to your attention, 
and to say to you that, in the opinion of my government, the repetition of an 
expedition of Egyptian negroes to Mexico would not be regarded with appro- 
val, nor even without profound inquietude, by the United States. 

I must also inform your excellency that instructions of the same character 
have been sent to the diplomatic representatives of the United States at Paris 
and Constantinople. 

I have the honor to renew to your excellency the assurance of my high con- 
sideration. 

Agent and Consul General, 

CHARLES HALE. 

His Excellency Cherif Pacha, 

Minister of Foreign Affairs. 



D. 

[Translation.] 

Agency and Consulate General of the 

United States of America in Egypt, 
Hotel des Ambassadeurs, Cairo, November 16, 1865. 

Your Excellency : In submitting to you the translation, here enclosed, of 
a despatch from our minister at Paris, addressed to the minister of foreign af- 
fairs at Washington, you will readily understand that it is not precisely an 
official communication that I make to you. 

I await your answer to my official note of 20th October, written under special 
instructions from my government ; meantime I make known to you what has 
passed. 

You will understand that I have only made mention to my government of a 
new expedition to replace the troops which are already in Mexico. The de- 
spatch of the 20th of September, of which our minister at Paris in the begin- 
ning of the letter here enclosed, and also at the end under No. 1, was of the 
same purport with that addressed at the same time to me, and which I commu- 
nicated to you under date of the 20th October. I pray you especially to take 
note of the language of my government. 

I should say to you that, whatever may be the reason, that which is necessary 
to tranquillize public opinion with us would be to learn that his Highness has 
been pleased to declare that he does not intend to renew the expedition of 
Egyptian soldiers to Mexico. A replacing would be considered as a renewal. 

If you wish to make a reserve in respect of your rights in the manner of 
Mr. Drouyn de Lhuys, by saying that the expedition is not abandoned, but 
that in effect it will not take place in consequence of interior events in Egypt, 
I would be satisfied, but naturally a definitive abandonment would give us great 
pleasure. France, as I believe, would not make objections ; with us in America 
it would be considered as a fresh proof of the friendship of his Highness, 
and by all the world it will be deemed a noble proof of his wisdom in the in- 
terests of humanity. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 669 

Provided that the service of Egyptian negroes in Mexico is not slavery, it 
may be admitted that it is not at all agreeable to the soldiers, as his Highness 
told me with all frankness possible in expressing to me his wish to change the 
men sent by others. 

I seize this occasion to renew to you the assurance of my high consideration. 

CHARLES HALE. 



E. 

[Translation.] 

Department of Foreign Affairs, Cabinet of the Minister, 

Cairo, November 16, 1865. 
Mr. Consul General : I have just received your despatch of the 16th, and 
the translation of the document therein referred to. 

For the present I can only refer to our conversation of this morning in re- 
peating that your despatch of to-day carries the question into a new phase, 
which the government of his Majesty reserves to itself to examine. Meanwhile 
I restrict myself to sending you my official answer to your esteemed despatch 
of 20th October last. 

Please accept, Mr. Consul General, the assurance of my high consideration. 

CHERIF PACHA. 
Mr. Hale, Agent and Consul General of the U. S. of America. 



No. 255. 

Mr. Seward to Mr. Hale. 

No. 16. | Department of State, 

Washington, November, 27, 1865. 

Sir : Your despatch of October 27, No. 44, has been received, and your 
proceedings in fufilment of my instruction No. 13 are approved. We learn 
from Paris that the design which is referred to in that instruction concerning 
the deportation of Nubians in Egypt to serve under the French flag in Mexico 
will not at present be executed. * 

I am, sir. your obedient servant, 

WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 
Charles Hale, Esq., 8fc, Sfc, Alexandria. 



No. 256. 
Mr. Hale to Mr. Seward. 

No. 48.] Agency and Consulate General of U. S. of America, 

Alexandria, Egypt, November 27, 1865. 

Sir: The Ardeche, French frigate, which brought hither French soldiers for 
Cochin China, sailed out of the harbor on 24th instant, having taken on board, 
according to all observations and reports, only the French soldiers who had 
previously arrived from Cochin China, and had been received on board the 
Sevres, as mentioned in my despatch No. 44. 

The French soldiers brought by the Ardeche, of which the number is stated 



670 CONDITION OF AFFAIKS IN MEXICO 

as one thousand and fifteen, were embarked at Suez on the 15th for their destin- 
ation. 

General de Marquez, accredited by Maximilian as Mexican envoy extraordi- 
nary and minister plenipotentiary to Constantinople, arrived at Alexandria on 
the 22d instant, and proceeded to Cairo, in company with Mr. Guiseppe Gogheb, 
accredited in the same way as Mexican counsul general here, and also in com- 
pany with Mr. De Maya, the Spanish consul general, an old personal friend. 

I have not previously mentioned that, on Mr. Gogheb's hoisting his flag here, 
on the 2d instant, he sent to me, as well as to the other members of the consular 
corps, his circular, intimating the day when he would be prepared to receive his 
colleagues. As I had met him previously in private circles, and also officially 
in his capacity as consul of Persia, (which commission he still retains,) I sent 
him a private note to intimate that I could not salute the flag or make him an 
official visit, but that I hoped to maintain friendly personal relations with him, 
and official relations with him in his capacity as consul of Persia. 

Both Mr. Gogheb and Mr. Debhane, my Brazilian colleague, are natives of 
the East ; they are estimable gentlemen, but naturally have little acquaintance 
with the governments whose commissions they hold, or with the condition of 
political society upon the American continent. 

I have the honor to be, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

CHARLES HALE. 

Hon. William PI. Seward, 

Secretary of State. 



MOROCCO. 

No. 257.. 

Mr. Perry to Mr. Seward. 

[Extract.] 



No. 60.] United States Consulate, 

Tunis, December 17, 1864. 

Sir : The Bey of Camp, who is the presumptive heir to the throne of Tunis, 
set off from the Bardo on the 15th instant with an army of eight thousand men, 
composed of infantry, cavalry, and artillery. He is to collect taxes from the 
various tribes in the regency, extending his visit as far as the Gereed, and he 
is to be gone one year. Such has been the ordinary way of raising a revenue 
for many years past. Last spring the usual visit of the Bey's revenue agents 
was prevented by the rebellion. 

The report of a battle between the Bey's troops and the rebels, near Kef, 
reached here yesterday. This difficulty occurred with the tribe that commenced 
the rebellion by killing several of the Bey's most important officers. 

The French consul made another visit to the Bey on the 10th instant, and as- 
he held out his hand to the Bey the latter kept his hands firm in his side-pock- 
ets, as if not seeing the consul's movement. This was probably done as a return 
for the consul's previous act of disrespect to the Bey. * * * * 

I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant 



Hon. William H. Seward, 

Secretary of State, Washivglen, D. C. 



AMOS PERRY 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 671 

No. 20. 
TEHUANTEPEC TRANSIT COMPANY. 

List of papers. 

Mr. Seward to Mr. Roberts December 13, 1866. 

Mr. Seward to Mr. Campbell December 15, 1866. 

Mr. Roberts to Mr. Seward December 21, 1866. 

Mr. Seward to Mr. Roberts December 26, 1S66. 



No. 258. 

Mr-. Seward to Mr. Roberts. 

Department op State, 
Was7ungto?i, December 13, 1S66. 
Sir : I enclose for your information a copy of the charter granted in October 
last, by the President of Mexico, to the "Tehuantepec Transit Company." 
I have the honor to be, sir, your obedient servant, 

WILLIAM II SEWARD. 
Marshall 0. Roberts, Esq., 

No. 174 Chambers street, New York. 



CHARTER OP THE TEHUANTEPEC TRANSIT COMPANY. 

City of Chihuahua, July 17, 1S66. 

Sir : I have the honor, as the agent and an associate of a company recently 
formed in the United States of America, styled the Tehuantepec Transit Com- 
pany, to solicit from the supreme constitutional government of the United 
Mexican States a grant and the franchises necessary for the opening, construc- 
tion, and operation of a transit route by railway, and also of a telegraphic line of 
communication, from the Gulf of Mexico to the port of La Ventosa, on the Pacific, 
across the isthmus of Tehuantepec. 

My authority for so doing I herewith enclose, being an ample power of attor- 
ney, duly authenticated, from my associates, to act in the premises, dated May 
18, 1866. 

In tbis same connection, I also have the honor to submit, for the consideration 
and approbation of your Excellency's government, the draught of a contract em- 
bodying the terms and conditions for carrying into effect the enterprises contem- 
plated by the Tehuantepec Transit Company, which has been duly considered 
and adopted by my associates, and which draught, I would further state, has been 
laid before Mr. Romero, the minister of the Mexican republic at Wasbington, 
and has received his commendation, so far as he was entitled, consistently with 
his position, to sanction the same. 

Your Excellency is fully aware of the importance which attaches to tbe early 
consummation of this great commercial enterprise, not only to the world at large, 
but to the best interests of our two republics ; one whicb, when fully weighed 
and considered, under the present situation of the Mexican republic, embodies 
in itself, politically, deep significance to its future existence and welfare as an 
independent and free state. 

My antecedents are well known to your Excellency. Your government lias 
ever known me as a decided friend of your republic, and a no less firm advocate 
of republican institutions throughout the American continent. I come with the 



672 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

determination to act noic, a3 I have hitherto done, with entire good faith towards 
the Mexican republic, and trust that every facility consistent with justice and 
equity will be vouchsafed to me by its lawful government in the prosecution 
and consummation of my mission ; and being desirous of soon returning to my 
country with renewed evidences of the amity and known good will of the Mex- 
ican republic towards the United States and its people, I have the honor to 
request that your Excellency will be pleased to direct the prompt consideration 
of the solicitation I now most respectfully present to the constitutional govern- 
ment of the republic. 

In conclusion, permit me to say that I am prepared to confer, respecting the 
transaction proposed in this my formal petition, with any person or persons 
whom it may be your Excellency's good pleasure to appoint to that end. 

I remain, with the highest respect and consideration, your Excellency's most 
obedient servant, 

[seal.] HENRY R. DE LA RELNTRIE, 

Agent Tehuantepec Transit Company. 

The Citizen Don Benito Juarez, 

President of the United Mexican States, Chihuahua. 



[Translation.] 
MINISTRY OF JUSTICE, FOMENTO, AND PUBLIC INSTRUCTION, SEC. 2. 

With your note of the 17th of July last was received the petition which you 
presented as agent and associate of a company recently formed in the United 
States of America, for the construction of a railroad and telegraphic line on the 
isthmus of Tehuantepec. 

Taking the subject into consideration, the modifications and alterations which 
were deemed convenient have been made in the bases proposed by you ; and 
you having signified your assent thereto, proceedings were taken immediately 
to pass and publish the appropriate law. 

By permission of the citizen President I communicate the same to you, re- 
questing you to be pleased to signify in reply that, as representative of the 
Tehuantepee Transit Company, you accept the terms in which the said law is 
conceived. 

Independence, liberty, and reform ! Chihuahua, October 15, 1866. 

[seal.] YGLESIAS. 

Henry R. De la Reintrie, Esq., Present. 



MINISTRY OF JUSTICE, FOMENTO, "AND PUBLIC INSTRUCTION, SEC. 2. 

The citizen President of the republic has been pleased to transmit to me the 
decree which follows : 

Benito Juarez, constitutional President of the United Mexican States, to their 

inhabitants : 

Know ye that, in use of the ample faculties with which I find myself in- 
vested, I have seen fit to decree the following : 

Art. 1. The company formed under the name of the Tehuantepec Transit 
Company, having solicited that the privilege granted to the Louisiana Tehuan- 
tepec Company on the 7th of September, 1857, for the opening of interoceanic 
communication by the isthmus of Tehuantepec, be declared lapsed and insub- 
sistent ; and taking into consideration the just motives and grounds alleged for 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 673 

making the declaration solicited, because of the Louisiana Tehuantepec Com- 
pany having infringed the obligations imposed upon it by the decree of the 7th 
of September, 1857, and those of the 28th of March, 1859 and 25th of October, 
1860, in which extensions of the periods fixed for commencing and finishing the 
railroad in question were granted ; therefore, the said privilege is declared 
lapsed and insubsistent, and, in virtue of such lapse and insubsistency, authority 
is given to the Tehuantepec Transit Company for the opening of the inter- 
oceanic communication by that isthmus, and for the establishment of a tele- 
graphic line on the same, the concessions which are expressed in this law being 
made to the said company. 

Art. 2. The company becomes obliged to make the communication by water, 
on the river Goatzacoalcos, availing itself of its navigable part so far as, by 
mutual agreement, it may be deemed proper ; and thence by land to the port of 
La Ventosa, by means of a railroad of the best class ; and while this is being 
completed, by means of a suitable carriage road, which shall be kept in a good 
state of service, and with the necessary bridges for the passage of carriages 
which may convey passengers and mercandise of small weight. 

Art. 3. Before commencing the works of the railroad and of the carriage 
road, the approbation of the general government shall be asked and obtained, 
respecting the plans and designs to be formed by the engineers of the company, 
with previous survey of the ground — marking out, in what relates to the rail- 
road, its whole course, its breadth, and the system of construction. 

Art. 4. The grantees shall give seasonable notice to the government when 
the survey of the ground over which the roads have to pass is to commence, so 
that it may appoint the commissioner or commissioners who shall represent it 
in the operations which may have to be performed, their compensation being 
paid by the company. For the demarcation of the vacant lands which are to be 
ceded to the company, experts, appointed by the government, shall intervene, 
their compensation also being paid by the company. 

Art. 5. In the term of eighteen months, counted from the entry of the gov- 
ernment of the republic into the city of Mexico, the explorations of the ground 
are to be made, the plans which mark the direction of the roads drawn up and 
presented and submitted to the approbation of the government, to which notice 
will be given within the first six months that these works are about to be pro- 
ceeded with, in order that it may appoint its commissioner or commissioners in 
due season. 

Art. 6. The company shall commence the construction of the railroad and 
telegraphic line within six months, counted from and after the year and a half 
spoken of in the preceding article, having to fiuish in each year, to the satisfac- 
tion of the government, a section of ten leagues, until the completion of the 
whole line. 

Art. 7. The company shall commence the construction of the carriage road 
at the same time as that of the railroad, and shall finish it to the satisfaction of 
the government within two years, counting from the date fixed for commencing it. 

Art. 8. Of the vacant lands which may exist, the government gives to the com- 
pany the strip which may be needed for the line of the roads, and besides the 
one-half of the vacant lands which may be found within a lateral mile on each 
side of the railroad alone, for the whole extent through which it may run. Said 
vacant lands shall be divided, where their extension permits, into squares of one 
mile square each, and where they have less than two miles in their length along 
the road, or in the fractions of less than two miles, they shall be divided into 
halves, one belonging to the nation and the other to the company. The portions 
divided shall be numbered on each side, commencing on both with No. 1 on 
the north, and following in numerical order towards the south, so that the No. 
1 of the side of the west or of the right side of the road shall remain in front of 
the No. 1 of the side of the east, or the left side, unless, because of the road 
43 Mbx. 



674 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

passing through places in which there should he vacant lands within the lateral 
line, on one side only there should be points of intersection with lands of private 
property, in which ose the order expressed will become interrupted, then re- 
suming again unto the end of the road the prescribed numeration, for the por- 
tions of lands on both sides. 

Art. 9. The nation reserves to itself thenceforth, in full domain, on the 
western or right side of the road, all the portions designated- by the odd num- 
bers 1, 3, 5, &c, and in the same manner it reserves to itself, on the eastern or 
left side of the road, all the portions marked with the even numbers 2, 4, 6, 
&c, ceding to the grantees for the period of sixty years the usufruct of the 
portions designated by the even numbers on the western or right side of the 
road, and of the portions marked with the odd numbers on the eastern or left 
side. If, in case of intersection stated in the preceding article, there should be 
found more portions of vacant lands on the one side of the road than on the 
other, whatever of excess there may be on either of the two sides shall be 
divided into halves between the nation and the grantees, in such manner as 
always to observe precisely from mile to mile the two alternatives of side and 
front between the national portions and those of the enterprise. 

Art. 10. The government grants to the company the necessary land — should 
there be such — for the wharves, dikes, and other indispensable works for the use 
of the way of communication at the ports of Goatzacoalcos and of La Ventosa, 
the company engaging to construct the said wharves and dikes at its own ex- 
pense, to the satisfaction of the government, in the two years following the date 
of the completion of the railroad, and thereafter immediately to construct the 
works necessary for facilitating the discharge of vessels and avoiding damage 
to merchandise. 

Art. 11. If the lands of the public domain granted to the company should 
not be sufficient for these purposes they may be supplied from those of private 
individuals, the company indemnifying the owners according to the laws. 

Art. 12. The company may take gratuitously from the lands which are of 
the public domain, for the time they are such, and without this implying as 
respects the government any obligation not to alienate them in whole or in part, 
the materials necessary for the construction of the roads and of the telegraph, 
or of their appurtenances, and for their conservation. If the materials should be 
found on the lands of private individuals, the company may also use them, in- 
demnifying the owners according to the laws. 

Art. 13. During the time necessary for the construction of the railroad, the 
company may import into the isthmus, free of duties, the materials, engines,' 
iron-work, coal, carriages, and tools necessary for the construction of the road 
and of its appurtenances, as well as such objects of prime necessity as may not 
be found on the isthmus for the maintenance and clothing which the laborers 
employed on the works may require. Subsequently to the term of the construc- 
tion of the road, it shall have the right to import free of duties only the engines, 
coal, cars, and rails which it may require — this exemption lasting for the space 
of sixty years, and the company making use of it, as also of the foregoing one, 
according to regulations issued by the ministry of the treasury. 

Art. 14. The company shall be under obligation to construct and maintain 
light-houses, of the first class, where it may be most convenient, at both ends of 
the way, the same to be completed within three years after the termination of 
the railroad. 

Art. 15. It shall also be under obligation to deepen the bar of Goatzacoalcos 
and the channel of the river, in the places where it may be possible and convenient, 
according to plans which shall be approved by the ministry of fomento. 

Art. 16. The company shall deposit in the hands of the minister plenipo- 
tentiary of Mexico at Washington, within ninety days, counted from and after 
the date of this law, and as a security of the obligations imposed on the same 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 675 

company, the sum of one hundred thousand dollars (.$100,000) in gold, the de 
livery of this money being a condition indispensable for the existence and va- 
lidity of the concessions made in the present decree. The company shall incur 
the penalty of losing the said one hundred thousand dollars ($100,000) in case 
it does not comply within the designated periods with the obligations to present 
the plans, and to commence and finish the roads and the telegraphic line. If it 
comply with these obligations the one hundred thousand dollars ($100,000) 
shall be paid to it out of the half of the first net proceeds accruing to the gov- 
ernment. 

Art. 17. The company shall have power to levy tolls, dues of transit, of 
wharfage, of storage, and any others whatever, for freight of goods, conveyance 
of passengers, and transmission of telegrams ; but the tariff fixed by the com- 
pany for the conjoint sum of all these dues, excepting only that of storage, shall 
not exceed fifty (50) cents per league for each passenger, three (3) cents per 
league for each arroba of goods, one (1) per cent, of the value of precious metals 
and jewels ; this apportionment being understood for the whole transit of the 
road by land and by water, and of ten (10) cents for each word of the telegrams. 

Art. 18. The government shall not exact, during the sixty years of the con- 
cession, any impost or contribution whatever, whether on the goods which shall 
pass by the isthmus in transit only, or on the passengers, or on the telegrams, or 
in fine on the capitals invested in the roads and telegraphic line, and in the 
entire undertaking. Goods consumed at points on the isthmus, or which may be 
exported therefrom, shall not enjoy this exemption. 

Art. 19. In respect to the line of transit established between the ports of 
Goatzacoalcos and La Ventosa, in part by water and in part by railroad, the 
government binds itself not to grant to another company, during the sixty years 
mentioned, the concessions specified in this law ; it being understood as to the 
collections of imposts that for no other company will there be dispensation or 
reduction of the payment of such duties as are made payable in conformity with 
the tariffs in force in the maritime custom-houses. 

Art. 20. The government shall protect the prosecution, conservation, and se- 
curity of the works, with all the force which it may deem suitable for a work of 
great and notorious public utility. 

Art. 21. The government shall keep open and legalized for foreign com- 
merce, during the sixty years of the concession, the port of Goatzacoalcos, on the 
Gulf of Mexico, and that of La Ventosa, on the Pacific. 

Art. 22. The power granted to«the company for the transportation of goods 
shall be regulated by the ministry of the treasury, to prevent abuses and facili- 
tate the prompt despatch thereof, without its being understood by said power 
that the company has the right to open sales of goods at any point on the 
isthmus. 

Art. 23. The concessions made in this law shall continue from and after the 
termination of the construction of the railroad and telegraph, for sixty years, 
counted from the time of their being opened for the public use ; and during all 
this time the government shall receive fifteen per cent, of the net incomes of the 
road, whenever dividends are made to the shareholders ; it being understood 
that, so soon as there shall be any income, there shall be made at least one div- 
idend annually. At the end of these sixty years the government shall enter 
into full and absolute possession and ownership of the lands given in usufruct, 
and of the railroad, telegraph, and light-houses, with all their tools and appur- 
tenances, in a current and perfect state of service. The trains to be delivered 
should be such at least as are necessary for the daily transportation of five hun- 
dred passengers and ten thousand arrobas of lading. The rails, cars, engines, 
and utensils shall be in a condition at least of medium use. The vessels and 
steamers of the company shall not be included in the delivery. 

Art. 24. Besides the fifteen (15) per cent, stipulated in the foregoing article, 



676 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

the company shall be under obligation to pay to the government, monthly, twelve 
cents for each one of the passengers or packages of merchandise which it trans- 
ports by the general way. 

Art. 25. The company shall be obliged to convey to any point, in the whole 
transit of the road, free of charges, the correspondence and printed matter which 
pass by it, and which the proper office may forward, receiving and delivering 
them with the due formalities. In the same manner it shall transport, for half 
the tariff, all the products and objects belonging to the government. It sball 
likewise convey, without any p;.y, the officers, troops, employes, or agents of 
the general government, or of the States, when travelling on public service. It 
shall also transmit, free of charge, by its telegraphic lines, all messages sent by 
functionaries or employes of the Mexican republic, or of either of the States 
thereof, on public business. The metals and agricultural and manufactured 
products of the republic shall be transported for twenty-five per cent, less than 
the price of the tariff, subject to regulations to be issued by the ministry of the 
treasury. 

Art 26. The transit, by the way of communication, shall be free for all the 
inhabitants of the globe; but there will be augmentation of twenty-five per cent. 
on the goods of nations which shall not have a treaty of neutrality with Mexico 
respecting the transit of the isthmus. 

Art. 27. The company shall have the power to transport, by tbe way of com- 
munication, foreign correspondence in closed bags, which shall not be opened ; 
and said bags shall be sealed by the administration of the mails, or of the mari- 
time custom-houses. 

Art. 28. The steamers or vessels of the company shall have the right to navi- 
gate the river Goatzacoalcos during the sixty years of the concession, doing so 
necessarily under the Mexican flag, and being bound' to have the allotment of 
officers and crews which the laws require for national vessels, constituting the 
same of Mexicans by birth or by naturalization. For the latter case there will 
be given to the company the letters of naturalization which it requests. 

Art. 29. The concession granted to the company in the preceding article is 
not to prevent other vessels and steamers from navigating the river Goatzacoal- 
cos for commerce and any other purposes : Provided, That this navigation shall 
be regulated by the laws of the Mexican republic. 

Art. 30. The company's vessels, conveying exclusively passengers, corre- 
spondence, and goods for the through transit of the way, shall be exempt from 
tonnage duty. If, besides, they convey goods for any point of the isthmus, they 
shall pay the tonnage duty as to such goods only, and not for the rest. 

Art. 31. The company shall transport in its vessels, free of cost, the corre- 
spondence and. printed matter which may come for any point of the republic, 
and those that may be sent from it to the other at which its vessels may touch, 
receiving and delivering the said printed matter and correspondence with the 
due formalities. In the same manner it shall transport, for one-half the tariff, 
all articles and effects the property of the government. It shall also convey, 
without any charge, the officers, troops, employes, and agents of the general gov- 
ernment, or of the States, when travelling on public service. The metals or 
products of the agriculture or manufactures of the republic shall be transported 
for twenty-five per cent, less than the tariff price. 

Art. 32. The company shall assume the payment of what may be legally 
and justly due upon the loaii which Mr. Francisco P. Falconnet made to the 
Sloo enterprise, the government continuing free from all future responsibility re- 
specting this loan, and without diminishing, on that account, tbe proportion of 
income which belongs to it of the products of the road. 

Art. 33. The enterprise to whicb this law refers is, and shall always be, 
exclusively Mexican ; and the Tehuantepec Transit Company, although consti- 
tuted in the United States, will, nevertheless, be deemed as renewed and now 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 677 

constituted in the Mexican republic, as though it had been formed and organized 
in the same conformably to the Mexican laws ; but, if it should deem fit to con- 
stitute separate companies, under such rules of association as it may select, for 
each one or for several of the branches comprehended in the operations which it 
is to perform, it shall have power to constitute such companies, forming them 
and organizing them, either in the republic or in the United States, in con- 
formity with the general or special laws of the place in which it may constitute 
them, although they are always to be considered as depending wholly of the 
same principal company, exclusively Mexican, and, therefore, subject to the 
prescriptions of this law. 

Art. 34. In virtue of the provisions of the preceding article, the present 
company, and any other which may succeed it, as well as all foreigners, and the 
successors of these, who may take part in the enterprise, whether as shareholders, , 
employes, or by any other title or character, shall be considered as Mexican in 
all that may relate to the said enterprise ; they shall not have the power to 
allege, with reference to the titles connected with the enterprise, the rights of 
foreigners; they shall not, even alleging a denial of justice, have other rights, 
nor other means of enforcing them, in all that concerns the same enterprise, 
than those which the laws of the republic concede to Mexicans ; and they shall 
not make available such rights except before the Mexican tribunals. 

Art. 35. The restrictions of the preceding article shall not apply to the dis- 
, cussions or differences arising between foreign shareholders and outside of the 
republic, in which case they may be examined and decided as though the re- 
strictions did not exist, but without the decisions of the foreign tribunals affect- 
ing in any manner the prescriptions of this decree, nor the Tehuantepec Transit 
Company, which is reputed Mexican for all the effects of this decree, nor Mex- 
ican interests. 

Art. 36 The government shall name one-fourth part of the directors of the 
company, with the same faculties and prerogatives as the others ; and shall have 
the right also to establish a commission on the isthmus to watch the works and 
labors which are undertaken. 

Art. 37. The following restrictions and obligations are imposed on the 
company : 

1. It shall construct no fortress on the isthmus. 

2. It shall not organize an armed force of any kind ; but the employes of the 
company may be armed for their personal defence. 

3. It shall not give passage to any foreign armed force without the express 
authorization of the general government. 

4. It shall not convey any effects whatever belonging to a belligerent, declared 
to be contraband of war by the laws of the Mexican republic, without the ex- 
press authorization of the general government. 

5. It shall not give passage to any armed national force, nor convey national 
munitions of warlike stores, without the express authorization of the general 
government, or of other competent authority. 

6. It shall immediately discharge from its service any of its dependents en- 
gaged in or protecting smuggling, or who shall commit any offence, and shall assist 
the government in their prosecution. 

7. It shall enforce the measures designated by the general government for the 
purpose of compelling all passengers to observe the revenue laws of the republic. 

Art. 38. The company shall not have power to alienate or hypothecate the 
concessions of this law, nor the railroad, nor the telegraph, without previous 
consent of the general government; and in no case can it alienate or hypothe- 
cate the concessions, nor the railroad, nor the telegraph, to any foreign govern- 
ment — the alienation or hypothecation it may make being null and of no force. 
Neither shall the company admit as a partner, in any case, a foreign government 



678 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

or state, any stipulation to that effect which it may make being equally null and 
of no force. 

Art. 39. The concessions granted in the present law shall become forfeited 
for the following causes : 

1. By not depositing in the hands of the minister plenipotentiary of Mexico 
in Washington, within ninety days, counted from the date of this law, the 
one hundred thousand dollars ($100,000) mentioned in article 16th of the same. 

2. By not complying with the obligations relative to the presentation of the 
plans, and of the construction of the sections and of the whole road within the 
periods fixed for that purpose in this law. 

3. By constructing any fortress on the isthmus of Tehuantepec. 

4. By organizing any armed force of any kind whatever. 

5. By giving passage to any foreign armed force without the express author- 
ization of the general government. 

6. By conveying, without the express authorization of the general govern- 
ment, such effects of any belligerent power as are declared to be contraband of 
war by the laws of the Mexican republic. 

7. By giving passage to any national armed force, or by conveying national 
munitions of war and other warlike stores, without the express authorization of 
the general government, or of other competent authority. 

8. By infringing any of the clauses of article 38 of this law, in which it is 
provided that the company cannot alienate nor hypothecate the concessions 
of the same law, nor the railroad, nor the telegraph, without the previous con- 
sent of the general government ; and that in no case can it alienate or hypothe- 
cate the concessions, nor the railroad, nor the telegraph, to any foreign govern- 
ment ; nor having power, in any case, of admitting as associate a foreign gov- 
ernment or state. 

Art. 40. In case the company should fail to comply with the other obliga- 
tions and restrictions imposed upon it by this law, it shall be subject to the 
reparation of the fault, and to the corresponding indemnification. 

Art. 41. In any of the cases specified in article 39, the company shall not 
only lose the concessions granted in this law, of which the government may 
dispose at its discretion, but all the expenses incurred and works which the 
same company may have made on the isthmus, which shall remain to the benefit 
of the nation. 

Art. 42. All doubt or controversy on the interpretation or execution of this 
law shall be decided by the competent federal tribunals of the Mexican republic, 
conformably to the laws of the same. 

Art. 43. The obligations contracted by the enterprise, respecting the periods 
fixed in this law, shall be suspended in every fortuitous case, or case of superior 
force, which shall directly and absolutely impede the performance of such obli- 
gations, and the suspension shall continue for the time only that the impediment 
continues. The company shall present to the general government the notifica- 
tions and proofs of the occurrence of a fortuitous case or case of superior force, 
of the character mentioned, within the term of three months after the impedi- 
ment has commenced ; and from the fact alone of not presenting such notifica- 
tions and proofs within the period designated, the company will not then be able 
to allege, at any time, the existence of the fortuitous case, or case of superior 
force. The company shall have likewise to present to the general government 
the notifications and proofs that the works have continued immediately after the 
cessation of the impediment, or at the most, within three months after its having 
ceased, the said presentation being made within the two months following the 
three months mentioned. There shall be allowed to the company only the time 
during which the impediment may have continued, or at the most, three months 
more. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 679 

Wherefore, I order that this be printed, published, circulated, and that it 
receive due execution. 

Given at the palace of the national government, in Chihuahua, on the 15th 
day of October, 1S66. 

BENITO JUAREZ. 
Citizen Jose M. Yglesias, 

Minister of Justice, Fomento, and Public Instruction. 

And I communicate it to you for your information and consequent objects. 
Independence, liberty, and reform! Chihuahua, October 15, 1866. 

YGLESIAS. 
Henry R. De la Re'.ntrie, Esq., Present. 



Consulate of the United States of America, 

City of Chihuahua, State of Chihuahua, Republic of Mexico : 

I hereby certify that Jose Maria Yglesias is the duly appointed and acting 
minister of the department of justice, fomento, and public instruction of the 
republic of Mexico, and that due faith and credit should be extended to all his 
official acts as minister aforesaid ; that I am personally acquainted with said 
minister Yglesiar, and that he to-day declared before me to be genuine his 
signature affixed to the preceding document. 

In testimony whereof, I hereunto sign my name and affix the seal of this 
consulate on this the sixteenth day of October, in the year of our Lord eighteen 
hundred and sixty-six. 

[seal.] REUBEN W. CREEL, 

Consul of the United States of America. 



Chihuahua, October 15, 1866. 
Sir : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your note of this date, 
transmitting an authenticated copy of the law of the 15th of October instant, 
which the citizen President, Don Benito Juarez, has been pleased to issue in 
behalf of the Tehuantepec Transit Company, and also to have published in 
the official journal of the constitutional government of the Mexican republic, 
of even date with said law. 

In reply, I have the honor to inform you that, as the agent of the Tehuan- 
tepec Transit Company, I accept the grants made to said company for the con- 
struction of a railroad and telegraph across the isthmus of Tehuantepec in the 
terms expressed in said law. 

I am, sir, with great respect, your very obedient servant, 

H. R. DE LA REINTRIE, Agent. 
Senor Don J. M. Yglesias, 

Minister of Fomento, SfC, Chihuahua. 



[Translation. ] 
ministry of justice, fomento, and public instruction. 

In order that the Tehuantepec Transit Company, which you represent, may 
enter at once on the preliminary works of the enterprise to which the law 
passed this day refers, the citizen President has been pleased to permit that 
authority shall be given to said company for the above-mentioned object, as is 
done by means of this order, the presentation of which will suffice to the end 
that the authorities and functionaries to whom it belongs to give it effect shall 



680 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

do the same immediately, imparting to the agents and employes of the company 
all the protection which may be necessary for the performance of their duties. 
I communicate this to you for the consequent objects 
Independence, liberty, and reform! Chihuahua, October 15, 1866. 

[seal.1 YGLESIAS. 

Henry R. De la Reintrie, Esq., Present. 



Consulate of the United States of America, 

City of Chihuahua, State of Chihuahua, Republic of Mexico: 

I hereby certify that Jose Maria Yglesias is the duly appointed and acting 
minister of the department of justice, fomento, and public instruction of the re- 
public of Mexico, and that due faith and credit should be extended to all his 
official acts as minister aforesaid ; that I am personally acquainted with said 
minister, Yglesias, and that he to-day declared before me to be genuine his sig- 
nature affixed to the preceding document. 

In testimony whereof, I hereunto sign my name and affix the seal of this 
consulate on this the sixteenth day of October, in the year of our Lord eighteen 
hundred and sixty-six. 

[seal.] REUBEN W. CREEL, 

Consul of the United States of America. 



Washington, D. C, November 28, 1866. 
Sir : I have the honor to report my return to this city, and to inform you 
that, pursuant to my instructions, I have obtained from Don Benito Juarez, 
President of the United Mexican States, a grant, made on the 15th day of Octo- 
ber last, to the Tehuantepec Transit Company for the construction of a railroad 
and telegraphic line over the isthmus of Tehuantepec. Enclosed herewith you 
will please find a copy of the original law on the subject, duly authenticated, 
and also a printed copy thereof, published at the seat of the government, Chi- 
huahua, in the official organ of the Mexican government. Also, the order of 
the Mexican government for commencing the survey of the route, dated October 
15, 1866. 

I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

H. R. DE LA REINTRIE, 
Agent of the Tehuantepec Transit Company. 
Charles Knap, Esq., 

President of the Tehuantepec Transit Company, Washington. 



Washington, November 28, 1866. 

Sir : I have the honor, as president of the Tehuantepec Transit Company, 
to inform you that at a meeting of the said company held this day it was de- 
termined to ratify the action of their agent, Mr. H. R. De la Reintrie, and that 
the company hereby accept the grants made to them on the 15th day of Octo- 
ber last by President Benito Juarez ; and also that the proper measures will be 
adopted to comply with the obligations enjoined upon the company in the said 
law. 

I am, sir, very respectfully, your obedient servant, 

CHARLES KNAP, 
President of the Tehuantepec Transit Company. 
H. R. DE LA REINTRIE, Secretary. 
Senor Matias Romero, Sfc, fyc, fyc, Washington, D. C. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 681 

No. 258. 

Mr. Seward to Mr. Campbell. 

No. 9.] Department of State, 

Washington, December 15, 1S66. 

Sir : I send you herewith a copy of a communication which I addressed on 
the 7th instant to Mr. Marshall 0. Roberts, of New York, in reply to one from 
him of the 27th ultimo, regarding the late charter which President Juarez 
granted to the Tehuantepec Transit Company, in derogation of a previous 
grant to the Louisiana Tehuantepec Company, which, it is claimed, has still 
its legal force. You will observe that the department declined to protest against 
this later grant, because it had not such evidence of the illegality of that grant 
as would warrant the interference by our government. The. subject, however, 
is one of importance, involving, as it does, the interests of several of our citi- 
zens. You are therefore instructed to bring the matter before the government of 
Mexico, asking of it such explanations as will give us a proper understanding 
of the subject. 

I enclose, for your future information, a copy of the last charter, which is 
dated October 15, 1866. 

I am, sir, your obedient servant, 

WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 

Lewis D. Campbell, Esq., fyc , fyc., Sfc. 



[Enclosure. ] 

Mr. Seward to Mr. Marshall O. Roberts. 

Department of State, 

Washington, December 7, 1866. 

Sir : On the 2Sth of May last you addressed to me a letter in which you 
informed me that you had become the purchaser of the stock of the Louisiana 
Tehuantepec Company, and thereby the owner of a grant which you represented 
to have "been made by the government of Mexico for the construction of 
a railroad across the isthmus of Tehuantepec in that country. You in- 
formed me that this grant, which originally was limited to a shorter period, 
was extended from time to time, and finally, by a decree of the Mexican 
government, dated October 8, 1S60, seven years from April, 1862, were 
allowed to the company for the completion of the road, with the proviso, that 
during civil war the time should not be counted against the grantees. You as- 
sumed that it was well known to me that it had been for many years the cher- 
ished plan of the American government to establish a transit across Tehuante- 
pec; and you informed me that a very great sum was offered by Presideut 
Polk to the Mexican government for the privilege which belongs to the com- 
pany which you now represent. You informed me further, that various difficul- 
ties, financial and political, had disappointed the expectations and wishes of our 
people, and that very large investments of capital had been sacrificed in the 
efforts to open the route. You then informed me, that you were prepared, not- 
withstanding former failures, to attempt the construction of a road, and to 
establish a steamer and railroad line between New York and San Francisco, pro- 
vided the government of the United States was able and willing to protect you 
in the execution of the work, and to enforce the rights which, as an American 
citizen, you had acquired. You further informed me, that you desired to establish 
the company in the State of New York, and to give it the name of the New York, 



682 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

Tehuantepec, and Pacific Railroad and Steamship Company ; and you requested 
the aid of the Department of State in procuring the permission of the Mexican 
government to make that proposed alteration. On the 29th day of May, 1866, 
I acknowledged by mail the receipt of the aforesaid letter, and stated that I 
should be pleased if you could make it convenient to call upon me here, with a 
view to conversation upon the subject of your letter. I have the remembrance 
of the visit which you made me, during the spring or early part of summer ; but 
my memory does not serve me upon the points, whether that visit occurred 
before or after the dates of the correspondence before mentioned, and whether 
in the conversation my attention was at all directed to the subject thereof. 

On the 17th of September, 1866, I received a letter from Mr. L. E. Hargous, 
of New York, which was written on the 14th of that month, in which he informed 
me that you had obtained through him the transfer of all the rights of the Lou- 
isiana Tehuantepec Company, for the purpose of building a railroad across the 
isthmus of Tehuantepec. To show to the government the title to the grant, 
under which such transfer was made, he enclosed me a copy of a decree "from 
the Mexican government to the Louisiana Tehuantepec Company, duly certified 
by the Mexican consul general, with the translation of the same appended ;" 
" which decree," said Mr. Hargous, " extends the time for the construction of 
the railroad." Mr. Hargous closed his letter by saying tbat, in view of the un- 
settled condition of affairs in Mexico, he ventured to ask the protection of this 
government, which such a great project requires, toinsureits success ; and also 
that the rights which he had set forth might be protected through any treaty 
that might thereafter be made by this government. 

On the 29th of September last, I received from Mr. L. E. Hargous a letter, 
which was written on the 26th of that month. In that letter the writer informed 
me that his brother, P. A. Hargous, became in possession of the Mexican grant 
for a railroad across the isthmus of Tehuantepec, in the year 1849. That in 
1851 he caused the route to be thoroughly surveyed ; in 1857 he ceded his rights 
to a company in New Orleans, which he said was incorporated by legislative 
authority, and called the " Louisiana Tehuantepec Company," to construct a 
railroad. That he despatched a bark for the purpose, in 1858, from New 
York, with 200 laborers, provisions, wagons, and implements, which vessel safely 
arrived, and the laborers entered on the business of opening the route. Mr. 
Hargous further stated that soon afterward the steamer Quaker City was pur- 
chased, and towards the end of October was sent to New Orleans, and tHat an iron 
steamer was built in New York, and in the fall of the same year was despatched to 
Minatitlan to be employed in carrying passengers and freight up the river Goatza- 
coalcos to Suchil. Mr. Hargous further stated that contracts were made for forty 
passenger coaches, which coaches, with several hundred sets of harness, extra 
wheels, poles, &c, were sent to the isthmus. Mr. Hargous further stated that 
at a subsequent date two large steamers, the Goatzacoaicos and the Mississippi, 
were purchased for the use of the company; that the plan was, in the first in- 
stance, to open communication by coaches, and in the mean time to build a rail- 
road. That the road was opened for coaches in the early part of November, 
1858, when the steamer Quaker City commenced running between New Orleans 
and Minatitlan, and continued in business for several months, carrying passen- 
gers and the United States mail to San Erancisco, via Potosi, on the Pacific. Mr. 
Hargous further stated that the route was approved by the passengers, and that 
there was every prospect that the railroad, on completion, would command a large 
portion of the travel to and from San Francisco. Mr. Hargous further informed 
me that, during the progress of the affair, the Louisiana Tehuantepec Company 
from time to time obtained the acceptances of the said P. A. Hargous and his 
firm, of which the said Lr E. Hargous was a member, for their accommodation, 
to a large amount. He further informed me that in May, 1S59, the remittances 
of the company were totally inadequate to cover those acceptances, and the con- 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 683 

sequence was disastrous to the said P. A. Hargous and to L. E. Hargous ; that 
the said P. A. Hargous had ever taken a profound interest in the enterprise of 
Tehuantepec, and was not insensible to the honor which would result from being- 
identified with a work so conducive to the welfare of his country. Mr. L: E. 
Hargous further informed me in this aforesaid letter, that in the administration 
of President Polk, Mr. Trist was authorized to offer fifteen million dollars for 
the right of way across the isthmus. Mr. L. E. Hargous further stated in that 
letter, that on the 22d of March, 1866, he effected an arrangement with you, and 
which arrangement procured for you a legal assignment of all the rights of the 
Louisiana Tehuantepec Company, which consist of grants, concessions, and 
amendments made by the republic of Mexico to said company by decrees, dated 
respectively September 7, 1857, March 28, 1859, and October 25, 1860. He 
further stated that, by the terms of the latter decree, seven years were granted 
to the company, from April 1, 1862, in which it might commence and complete 
the railroad, and also providing that no part of said period should count during 
which the work might be suspended by the existence of civil war, or any other 
controlling cause. Mr. Hargous then proceeded to observe that it was well known 
that civil war had existed ever since the promulgation of that latter decree ; that 
the territory of Mexico was invaded by the Spanish forces in 1860, and shortly 
afterwards was invaded by the French and English, and that New Orleans, where 
the company was located, was blockaded in April of the same year, in accord- 
ance with the proclamation of the President of the United States ; that the 
isthmus had been alternately occupied by the French and liberals ; all which 
circumstances, he argued, were controlling causes as defined in the said decree. 
He further stated that Mr. E. Olarte, an agent of the Louisiana Tehuantepec 
Company, addressed a communication to the Mexican government in March, 
1862, notifying it that, in consideration of the facts above related, it was mate- 
rially impossible for the company to comply with what was prescribed in the de- 
cree of the 25th October, 1860. Mr. Hargous proceeded further to observe, 
that it was now about seventeen years since the Tehuantepec project had been 
made known to the world by the efforts of his brother, P. A. Hargous, and him- 
self, both of whom were born in Philadelphia, who are merchants of forty years' 
standing, and during thirty of those years in New York ; that, as these trans- 
actions have brought ruin upon them, he considered that such a disaster in such 
a worthy cause should appeal with success to the sympathies of this govern- 
ment. He therefore begged again to ask the protection which such a great pro- 
ject requires, and especially so now ; that he had made arrangements with Mr. 
Marshall 0. Roberts to carry it out, thus enabling him (Mr. Hargous) to enter- 
tain hopes of being compensated for so many years' toil and trouble, and of be- 
ing also re-imbursed for the outlay of so many millions. 

On the 3d day of October last I addressed Mr. L. E. Hargous a letter in 
which I acknowledged the receipt of his communication of the 26th of Septem- 
ber. In that reply I informed Mr. Hargous that his letter did not show clearly 
what protection was specially asked by him from the government of the United 
States, and that the Department of State was not aware of any existing law of 
the United States which would authorize the President, without a special pro- 
vision by Congress to that effect, to engage to furnish men or money for the pro- 
tection of such an enterprise. That the acts done by him in the past, as well 
as the acts which may be lawfully done by Mr. Roberts in future, under the 
assumed contracts, are clearly questions of Mexican, or at most of international, 
law, which the President had neither the right nor the authority to decide upon 
speculatively. 

On the 22d of October I received from Mr. L. E. Hargous a letter which bore 
date the 18th of that month, and which purported to be a reply to my commu- 
nication to him of the 3d of October. Mr. Hargous, in his said letter of the 18th 
of October, wrote that the protection asked in his letters of the 14th and 26th 



684 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

ultimo, from the government of the United States, in regard to the project of 
Tehuantepec, is, that in the prosecution of the works intended on the isthmus, 
the rights obtained through him, by you, from the Louisiana Tehuantepec Com- 
pany should not be permitted to be infringed or thwarted by any acts of the 
contending parties in Mexico, or their agents. Mr. Hargous added : " With this 
assurance of protection, Mr. Roberts would, no doubt, commence forming the 
company with the view of prosecuting the work on the isthmus at once." Mr. 
Hargous added that he thought that such a great project requires, if not the aid 
of the government, at least its protection in the sense above mentioned, or in any 
other that it may deem best. Mr. Hargous closed by quoting the words of a 
distinguished ex-senator, that " the government of the United States stands 
committed to all of its citizens to protect them in their rights abroad, as well as 
at home ;" and he yet hoped that the rights acquired by Mr. Roberts, and so 
conducive to the welfare of the United States, would receive due consideration. 

On the 22d of October I addressed a reply to Mr. Hargous, in which I ac- 
knowledged the receipt of his letter of the 18th, and I stated to him that with- 
out a special act of Congress conferring authority for that purpose, the executive 
government of the United States has no right to inquire into conflicting claims, 
or into the legality of contracts between the citizens of the United States and 
the Mexican government. That a similar authority would be necessary to 
carry into effect any decision which might be the result of the inquiry referred to. 

On the 27th of November I received a letter from Mr. Hargous, written on 
the 2Gth of that month, in which he stated that he begged leave to call the 
attention of the United States government to the fact, that under the decrees of 
the Mexican government of September, ]857, March 28, 1859, and October 25, 
1860, the said company and its assigns claim and are entitled to the exclusive 
privilege of opening interoceanic communication across the isthmus of Tehuan- 
tepec. Mr. Hargous stated further that it has lately come to his knowledge 
that President Juarez has declared the rights and privileges granted to the 
Louisiana Tehuantepec Company null and void, and has given a new grant to 
other parties; that he (Hargous) therefore, in the name of his company, protests 
to the government of the United States against the attempted violation of the 
contract of Mexico with the Louisiana Tehuantepec Company by President 
Juarez, "who," Mr. Hargous says, " thus illegally and unjustly endeavors to 
despoil that company of their rights," and to revoke deliberately the title given 
through him by the Mexican government. And Mr. Hargous appeals to the 
United States government for that protection from the United States in the 
matter which is due by it to its citizens. Mr. Hargous further proceeded to say 
that the Louisiana Tehuantepec Company is an American company — is com- 
posed of American citizens ; and the assignees of its privileges are also American 
citizens ; that in this very Tehuantepec matter those citizens have had to call 
upon our government for this protection, which has not been refused them ; and 
he hopes the government will see full justice done in this similar case. Mr. 
Hargous further stated in his letter, that President Fillmore, in March, 1852, 
wrote to President Arista a letter, an extract of which is given by Mr. Hargous 
from Senate document 9738, budget 197 ; and Mr. Hargous states that Daniel 
Webster, then Secretary of State, wrote, on the 30th of June, 1852, to Sefior 
Larainzar. Mr. Hargous also gave me an extract from a letter which he said 
was written by Mr. Letcher, United States minister, to Mr. Ramirez ; in all of 
which papers the rights of the said Louisiana Tehuantepec Company were 
insisted upon by this government. Mr. Hargous concluded his letter by say- 
ing that the government is acquainted with the history of the case, and the 
condition of the country, and the facts and titles ur^on which they rely for the 
justice of their claim. That if this illegal edict despoiling them of their rights, 
against which they now protest, is attempted to be enforced, they call upon the 
government in advance for protection. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIES IN MEXICO. 685 

On the 30th of November I acknowledged the receipt of Mr. Hargous's last 
before-mentioned communication. 

On the 30th of November a letter was received from yourself, which bears 
date New York the 27th of that month. In this last letter of yours you state 
that on the 28th of May last you addressed a communication to this department, 
informing it that you had then become possessed of the grant made by the re- 
public of Mexico to the Louisiana Tehuantepec Company, and that you then re- 
quested the co-operation of the Department of State in procuring some modifi- 
cation thereof; that you have received no answer to that communication; and 
that you now begged to recall it to my attention. In your letter of the 27th of 
November you continue to observe that, so far as you are concerned, the situa- 
tion remains as it was when you wrote on the 28th of May, but that events 
have occurred in Mexico to require a renewed statement of the case. You then 
state that you are informed that the President of the republic of Mexico, Benito 
Juarez, has attempted to divest you and your associates of the routes granted 
to the Louisiana Tehuantepec Company in the decree of the government of 
Mexico, dated September 27, 1857, confirmed by a further decree March 28, 
1859, and still further confirmed and modified by a decree of President Juarez, 
dated October 25, 1860. You further stated in your last-mentioned letter that 
the act by which the attempt of the said President Juarez thus described is 
made, is said to be a grant by him of the same privileges which were conferred 
upon you by the decree above mentioned, and some other persons claiming to be 
citizens of the United States ; and that you are further informed that a person 
procuring this decree did so with the intimntion that it would be beneficial to 
the interests of the people of the United States and the interests of the said 
President of Mexico, Benito Juarez ; that upon the faith of the title which you 
now control, large sums of money have been expended by American citizens in 
their efforts to open this road, and they cannot lawfully be despoiled by an ex- 
ecutive decree. You add that it is claimed that, if there has been a forfeiture, 
that question must be decided according to law, and cannot be judged by the 
President of Mexico to the prejudice of those whose interests are to be affected by 
the decision. You further say that, upon the faith of the title that you now 
represent, an association of the most able and enterprising of the citizens of 
the United States has been made for the purpose of constructing a road 
on the isthmus of Tehuantepec ; and that they have already expended 
money, and are prepared to spend all that is necessary, to accomplish the 
object ; but that they must rely upon their own government to protect them from 
spoliation ; and they have a right to that protection. You proceed to observe 
that the work is one of great national importance ; that it is the only highway 
connecting our western with our eastern States which can be guarded in case 
of foreign war from interruption; and that it is of the greatest consequence that 
it should be constructed and placed under the protection of this government. 
But, you observe, it is obvious that it can never be built if the executive of 
Mexico is allowed, whenever tempted by the offer of money or otherwise, to 
annul the title and make a new grant, and that it is equally obvious that Amer- 
ican citizens can have no protection except from their own government. You fur- 
ther remark that the title to the Louisiana Tehuantepec Company seems to be so 
plain that no plausible pretext for an act of spoliation can be suggested. That 
on the 28th of October, 1S60, President Juarez extended the time for building 
the railroad to seven years from April 1, 1862, with the following proviso : 
" No recounting will be had as a part of the said period of seven years of the 
time that the work of construction of said railroad may be suspended by the 
operation of war, or other controlling cause, the same being duly authenticated " 
You then proceed to state that, in 1861, Mexico was invaded by foreign armies, 
and from that time to the present a state of civil war has existed in that country ; 
that it was impossible to construct this road during that period, unless it was 



686 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

done under the auspices and protection of foreign arms, hostile to the republic 
of Mexico, usurping its government, ; and this proposition you say is not dis- 
puted. You proceed to add that the contingency provided for by the contract 
has occurred, so that there is not only a legal excuse, but an excuse so sufficient 
that to disregard it would be to decide that an American company should have 
waged war for the period in which to exercise the franchise. You argue further 
that, as American citizens, the owners of the franchise are entitled to the pro- 
tective co-operation of their government in asserting their rights ; that in the 
circumstances of the case their claim is peculiarly urgent with the United States, 
because of the great national importance of the work to be done and the certainty 
that it will be done if protected ; and the situation of the Mexican government 
is such that a wish now expressed by the government of the United States 
would serve the purpose of securing those rights, to protect which might, under 
other circumstances, be enforced. 

You conclude by observing that the parties interested are ready to proceed ; 
that their engineer is in Mexico awaiting orders ; that they have already laid out 
money on the work, and are deterred only by the unlawful .interference which 
you have described. You, therefore, ask my immediate attention, and you think 
that the occasion is one which justifies you in urging your claim, and requires 
the State Department to listen with favor. 

I have submitted the correspondence herein recited to the consideration of 
the President of the United States. It is not without surprise that I read in 
your last-mentioned letter the statement that no reply was received by you to 
your letter of the 28th of May. 

I have to make the following observations : 

First. In regard to the subjects mentioned in this correspondence, I think it 
proper to say that this department has received no information whatever during 
its superintendence by the present Secretary of State except what has been 
furnished by your own letters, and those of Mr. L. E. Hargous, which are 
herein before recited. 

Secondly. The correspondence began with an application on your part to 
this department to aid you in obtaining a modification of a decree, or decrees, of 
the Mexican republic in regard to the grant thereby made. The modification 
which you proposed was one which would permit the removal of the seat of 
business of the Louisiana Tehuantepec Company from New Orleans to New 
York, and to give it the name of the New York, Tehuantepec and Pacific Rail- 
road and Steamship Company. It seemed to the department, under the cir- 
cumstances, as unnecessary as it would have been foreign from its accustomed 
manner of proceeding in foreign intercourse, to address the government of Mex- 
ico on that subject. It did not escape my attention that the proceeding pro- 
posed might require not only the consent of Mexico, but also that of the legis- 
latures of New York and Louisiana. When Mr. Hargous entered the corre- 
spondence he invoked in very indefinite terms guarantees that this government 
would afford armed or military intervention in Mexico to protect and maintain 
the Louisiana Tehuantepec Company in operations of labor to be thereafter in- 
stituted and conducted on the isthmus of Tehuantepec, but which operations, 
it is understood, have not even yet begun. After obtaining from him a defini- 
tion of the form of protection which he thus asked, the department answered his 
application by giving him the only answer that the laws of the United States, 
as understood by this department, allowed it to make. 

Thirdly. The correspondence on your part and that of Mr. Hargous closes 
with the statement upon information, that the President of Mexico has recently 
attempted to violate the rights of the Louisiana Tehuantepec Company by re- 
voking former decrees and making new concession of the right to construct a 
railroad across the isthmus of Tehuantepec to some new party. You protest 
against that alleged violation of your rights, and appeal to this government for 



CONDITION OF AFFAIES IN MEXICO. 687 

its interference. Among the grounds upon which that appeal rests is your state- 
ment, before recited, that the person who procured this last-mentioned decree, 
in violation of the rights of the Louisiana Tehuantepec Company, effected that 
purpose by representing to the government of Mexico that the new deci-ee which 
he proposed would be acceptable to the government of the United States and 
beneficial to the government of Mexico, represented by President Jaurez. You 
are now distinctly informed not only that this government has no knowledge 
that such a decree as you protest against has been made, but that it has no 
knowledge or information of the manner in which, or of the person by whom, it 
was procured to be made, and that no person has communicated on behalf of 
this government with President Juarez, or any other agent of the Mexican gov- 
ernment, in any way whatever, or has been authorized to hold communication 
with it in regard to the matter concerned. 

Fourthly. This department might perhaps adopt, if it had legal authority, 
the opinion in regard to that subject which you have expressed, viz: that the 
t tie of the Louisiana Tehuantepec Company, which you represent, is valid, and 
this department, in the absence of information to the contrary, might cherfully 
assume that the Louisiana Tehuantepec Company cannot be lawfully despoiled 
of their rights by an executive decree. The department might also adopt the 
further opinion which you have expressed on the subject in that connection, 
namely, that if it is claimed that there has been a forfeiture by the Louisiana 
Tehuantepec Company, that question must be decided according to law, and 
that it cannot be judged by the President of Mexico to the prejudice of those 
whose interests are to be affected by the decision. On the other hand, I have 
to observe that it is with the government of Mexico, and not the government of 
the United States, that the Louisiana Tehuantepec Company have contracted ; 
that it must rest, at least in the first instance, with the courts of Mexico, and cer- 
tainly not with the executive department of the United States, to decide the 
questions of law and of fact which you have thus raised, without any lawful 
authority conferred by Congress. It does not appear that you have taken care 
to protest to the government of Mexico against the proceedings of which you 
complain, or even to inquire concerning the truth of the matters alleged against 
it, but I am led to infer that you expect this department to enter a protest in 
your behalf. Such a mode of proceeding, however, could not be adopted upon 
any conceivable ground, except an assumption by this department, without any 
authority of law, to pronounce and decide upon the validity and continuance of 
the title of the Louisiana Tehuantepec Company — a question which, as I have 
intimated, belongs to judicial authorities in Mexico, and not to any executive 
authority residing in the United States. 

I close by remarking, that the President appreciates the proposed improve- 
ment in the construction of an interoceanic railroad across the isthmus of Tehu- 
antepec as one of very great importance, not only to Mexico, but to the United 
States and to the world. He would rejoice to see that improvement consum- 
mated by the talents and capital of the citizens of the United States, and while he 
does not doubt that such a consummation would well reward the efforts by which 
it should be effected, he thinks, nevertheless, that those who undertake and 
effect it will deserve the praise and gratitude of our country. The President, 
further, is quite willing to believe all the pretensions and claims which you have 
submitted to him in behalf of the Louisiana Tehuantepec Company. But he 
has, at the same time, no authentic information Vjf any just grounds for doubt- 
ing the wisdom, the honesty or the good faith of the government of Mexico in 
the premises. 

Under the belief that that government will give due consideration to what- 
ever you have urged in vindication of the rights with which you are invested, 
a copy of this communication will be furnished to the minister of the United 
States in Mexico, and he will be instructed to submit the same to the attention 



688 CONDITION OF A.FFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

of the government of that republic, to the end that it may render such expla- 
nations upon the subject as it may think proper. 
I am, sir, your obedient servant, 

WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 
Marshall 0. Roberts, Esq., 

No. 174 Chambers street, New York. 



No. 259. 
Mr. Roberts to Mr. Seward. 

174 Chambers Street, New York, December 21, 1866. 

Sir : I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of 
the 8th instant, containing a summary of the correspondence between the De- 
partment of State and Mr. Hargous and myself in regard to the rights of the 
Louisiana Tehuantepec Company to construct a railroad across the isthmus of 
Tehuantepec and the alleged violation of those rights by the President of the 
republic of Mexico, and a statement of the views of the President in regard to 
the duty and power of the executive department of the government of the 
United States in the premises. 

I infer from your letter that, in your opinion, the Louisiana Tehuantepec 
Company, the stock of which is now owned by me, has no redress except in the 
courts of Mexico for a violation of their rights by the President of Mexico, and 
that the company ought first to protest to the President of Mexico against the 
acts of which it complains. And I am assured that the President "is quite 
willing to believe all the pretensions and claims" set up in the correspondence 
by the Louisiana Tehuantepec Company, but that he has " no authentic inform- 
ation of any just ground for doubting the wisdom, the honesty, or the good 
faith of the government of Mexico in the premises." 

In regard to the first point I desire to call your attention to the article thirty- 
five of the grant of the President of Mexico to the Louisiana Tehuantepec Com- 
pany, which is in these words : " In case there should be any doubt or differ- 
ence in the execution or interpretation of this privilege it shall be decided by 
arbitrators and amicable compounders, one named by the government and the 
other by the company, who, before beginning the examination, shall name a 
third, in case of a disagreement. Against the decree of these arbitrators and 
the umpire there shall be no appeal nor recourse whatever." By the terms of 
this agreement our rights are removed from the jurisdiction of the courts, and a 
special tribunal is appointed for their decision. We do not therefore, I submit, 
stand in the same situation as citizens of Mexico, or as supposed by you in 
your letter. 

No court of law in Mexico has jurisdiction over the President of Mexico, who 
exercises, as it appears, both legislative and executive powers ; and unless the 
government of the United States will insist upon the performance of this agree- 
ment, by the appointment of the arbitrators, in case it is claimed that the com- 
pany has not complied, we musL be remediless. 

In respect to a protest to be laid before President Juarez, I would remark 
that it is not practicable to reach that official person, and I submit that, under 
the unfortunate circumstances which surround the President of Mexico, no com- 
plaint ought to be made of citizens of the United States who are unable to lay 
their petitions before him. 

I am unable to afford the President any more authentic information of any 
just grounds " for doubting the wisdom, the honesty, or the good faith of the 
government of Mexico in the premises," than is contained in the copy of a char- 
ter granted in October last by the President of Mexico to the Tehuantepec 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 689 

Transit Company, enclosed by you to me on the 13th instant, as you say, for 
my information. 

I assume that the decree contained in that charter was really issued ; and I 
appeal to that paper as conclusive proof of the bad faith of President Juarez. 
The first article of that decree sets forth that " the Tehuantepec Transit Com- 
pany, having solicited that the privilege granted to the Louisiana Tehuantepec 
Company be declared lapsed and insubsistent, and taking into consideration the 
just motives and grounds alleged for making the declaration solicited, because 
of the Louisiana Tehuantepec Company having infringed the obligations im- 
posed upon it by the decree, &c, therefore the said privilege is declared lapsed 
and insubsistent." Here is a decision by one of the parties that the contract 
has been broken by the other party, and a proceeding to confiscate the property 
of that party is instituted. By the terms of the contract itself, any question 
affecting the execution or interpretation of " this privilege " shall be decided by 
arbitration. Therefore it is evident, upon inspection of the two documents, that 
there has been a violation of the first contract by the granting of a second de- 
cree ; and I submit to the consideration of the government of the United States 
whether it should support, by its moral aid or otherwise, the pretensions of the 
acting President of Mexico to the control of that government, while at the same 
time he is committing these acts of bad faith towards our citizens. 

I trust, therefore, that the President will reconsider his views of the matter, 
and see the expediency of aiding the Louisiana Tehuantepec Company, at least 
so far as to enable it to have a decision of its rights by the only tribunal which, 
by the decree under which it claims, is competent to decide them. 

I am, sir, with respect, your obedient servant, 

MARSHALL 0. ROBERTS. 
Hon. William H. Seward, 

Secretary of State, of the United Statet. 



No. 261. 
Mr. Seward to Mr. Roberts. 

Department of State, 

Washington, December 26, 1866. 
Sir : The letter which you addressed to me on the 21st of December, 1866, 
in reply to my communication of the 8th instant, has been received. 

The suggestion which you make of a withdrawal by this government of its 
recognition of the administration of President Juarez in the republic of Mexico, 
upon the ground that he is committing acts of bad faith toward citizens of the 
United States, has been submitted, with the reasons you assign for that course, 
to the consideration of the President. 

Without further discussion of the question of legal right, the President does 
not deem it necessary or expedient at the present time to intervene in matters 
of civil contract between citizens of the United States arising in Mexico, or in 
matters of contract between citizens of the United States and the government 
of Mexico. 

A copy of your communication will be furnished to Mr. Campbell, with a 
view, if opportunity offer, that he may lay the same before the President of 
Mexico for his information. 

I have the honor to be, sir, your obedient servant, 

WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 
Marshall 0. Roberts, Esq., 

174 Cha??ibcrs street, New York. 

44 Mex. 



690 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO 

JVo. 21. 

SUPPLEMENT No. 1. 

MESSAGE OF THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES, COMMUNICATING, 
IN COMPLIANCE WITH A RESOLUTION OF THE SENATE OF THE SIXTH 
OF FEBRUARY, 1867, CORRESPONDENCE ON THE SUBJECT OF GRANTS 
TO AMERICAN CITIZENS FOR RAILROAD AND TELEGRAPH LINES ACROSS 
THE TERRITORY OF THE REPUBLIC OF MEXICO. 

To the Senate <f the United States: 

In compliance with the resolution of the Senate of the 6th of February, 1867, 
requesting me to transmit copies of all correspondence not heretofore communi- 
cated on the subject of grants to American citizens for railroad and telegraph 
lines across the territory of the republic of Mexico, I submit herewith the report 
of the Secretary of State and the papers accompanying it. 

ANDREW JOHNSON. 

Washington, February 11, 1867. 



Department of State, 

Washington, February 11, 1S67. 
The Secretary of State, to whom was referred the resolution of the Senate of 
the 6th instant, requesting the President to communicate to that bod} 7 , "if not 
deemed incompatible with the public interests, copies of all correspondence not 
heretofore communicated with reference to grants to American citizens for rail- 
road and telegraph lines across the territory of the republic of Mexico," has the 
honor to transmit the papers mentioned in the annexed list. 
Respectfully submitted. 

WILLIAM H. SEWARD. 
The President. 



List of papers. 

No. 1. Mr. Knap to Mr. Seward Feb. 2, 1867. 

No. 2. Decree of President Juarez Oct. 25, 1860. 

No, 3. Mr. La Sere to President Juarez Oct. 18, 1865. 

No. 4. President to Mr. Emile La Sere Mar. 26, 1866. 

No. 5. Decree of congress of Mexico Dec. 13, 1862. 

No. 6. Decree of Maximilian Oct. 12, 1866. 

No. 7. Mr. Knap to Mr. De la Reintrie May 15, 1866. 

No. 8. Mr. De la Reintrie to President Juarez May 16, 1866. 

No. 9. President Juarez to Mr. De la Reintrie June 22, 1866. 

No. 10. Charter of the Tehuantepec Transit Company Oct. 15, 1866. 

No. 11. Mr. Knap to Mr. Gushing Nov. 2S, 1866. 

No. 12. Mr. dishing to Mr. Knap Nov. 30, 1866. 

No. 13. Mr. Cushing's second opinion Dec. 27, 1866. 

No. 14. Opinion of Hon. Reverdy Johnson Dec. 28, 1S66. 

No. 15. Supplement to Mr. Cushing's opinion Jan. 17, 1867. 



No. 1. 

Mr. Knap to Mr. Seward. 

Office of the Tehuantepec Transit Company, 

No. 274 F street, Washington, February 2, 1S67. 
Sir : Sundry publications having appeared in public journals with the view 
of impugning the legality of the concession made on the 15th day of October, 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 691 

1S66, by President Juarez, to the " Tehuantepec Transit Company," for the 
construction of a railroad and telegraph across the isthmus of Tehuantepec, a 
copy of which was communicated to you on the Sth day of December last, and 
intimations have come to the knowledge of said company that representations 
having been made to you, and likewise circulated in other quarters, reflecting 
upon the proceedings of this company and its officers in obtaining the grant in 
question,! deem it proper to communicate, in addition to the ^ar^er itself, copies 
of the following papers, from which it will clearly appear that all the proper 
and necessary steps were adopted by the company I have the honor to repre- 
sent for obtaining in a lawful and honorable manner the grant and franchises 
now made the subject of a controversy unnecessary in itself, and certainly not 
invited by the " Tehuantepec Transit Company:" 

No. 1. Decree of President Juarez Oct. 25, 1S60. 

No. 2. Mr. La Sere to President Juarez Oct. 18, 1865. 

No. 3. Eeply of President Juarez Mar. 26, 1S66. 

No. 4. Decree of Mexican congress Dec. 13, 1262. 

No. 5. Decree of Maximilian .Oct. 12, 1866. 

No. 6. Mr. Knap to Mr. La Reintrie May 15, 1S66. 

No. 7. Mr. La Reintrie to President Juarez May 16, 1866. 

No. S. Reply of President Juarez June 22, 1866. 

No. 9. Charter of " Tehuantepec Transit Company" Oct. 15, 1866. 

No. 10. Opinion of Mr. Cushing Nov. 30, 1866. 

No. 11. Opinion of Mr. Cushing Dec. 27, 1866. 

No. 12. Opinion of Mr. Johnson Dec. 2S, 1866. 

No. 13. Supplement to Mr. Cushing's opinions Jan. 17, 1867. 

A careful review of the foregoing documents will clearly demonstrate 'to any 
unprejudiced and disinterested party that the privilege extended October 25, 
1860, to the Louisiana Tehuantepec Company, had lapsed before any formal 
application (July 17, 1866) had been made to the lawful President of the 
United Mexican States by the " Tehuantepec Transit Company," and that the 
"Louisiana Tehuantepec Company" has, of its own volition, outlawed itself by 
applying for and accepting the extension made to it by the usurper Maximilian, 
dated October 12, 1866. 

Some time prior to the issue of the concession to the " Tehuantepec Transit 
Company" it became known to the government of President Juarez, then at 
Chihuahua, by means of publications in -the journals of the city of Mexico, and 
otherwise, that there was an agent of the "Louisiana Tehuantepec Company" 
in that city, Mr. J. P. 0. Sullivan, soliciting from Maximilian an act in favor of 
the latter company. The above-mentioned decree of October 12, 1S66, appears 
to be the result of the applications of that agent to Maximilian. 

I particularly invite your attention to the reply of President Juarez to Mr. 
La Sere, of March 26, 1866, (doc. No. 3,) and to the supplemental opinion 
of Mr. Cushing, the counsel of this company, of January 17, 1367, (doc. No. 13,) 
which, in my opinion, finally and conclusively dispose of the question. 

All of which is most respectfully submitted. 
I am, sir, your very obedient servant, 

CHARLES KNAP, 
President of the Tehuantepec Transit Company. 

Hon. William H. Seward, 

Secretary of State, Washington, D. C. 



692 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

No. 2. 
Decree of President Juarez. 

DECEEE OF OCTOBER 25, 1860. 

OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY OF STATE AND OF THE DEPARTMENT OF FOMENTO 
COLONIZATION, INDUSTRY, AND COMMERCE. 

His excellency the constitutional president ad interim of the republic has 
been pleased to address to me the following decree : 

The citizen Benito Juarez, the constitutional President ad interim of the 
United Mexican States, to all its inhabitants: 

Know ye, that in the exercise of the powers with which I am invested, I have 
deemed it proper to decree the following : 

Article 1. The time conceded by article 1st of the decree of the 28th of 
March, 1S59, to the Louisiana Tehuantepec Company is extended, so that it 
may commence to construct the railroad on the 1st day of April, 1862, with the 
obligation of finishing it in seven years, counted from the same day. 

Art. 2. The time during which the labors of the construction of the said 
railroad may be suspended may not be counted in the said extension of seven 
years, and this extension may be amplified if the suspension should depend 
upon civil war or other causes of major force, legally proven. 

Therefore, I order that this be printed, circulated, and that the due compli- 
ance be given to it. 

Given at the palace of the national government, at the heroic city of Vera 
Cruz, on the twenty- fifth day of October, one thousand eight hundred and sixty. 

BENITO JUAREZ. 

The Citizen Jose de Emparan, 

Minister of Fomento. 

And I communicate it to you for your information, and the consequent ends- 
God and liberty ! Heroic Vera Cruz, October 25, 1860. 

EMPARAN. 
A correct translation : 

H. R. DE LA REINTRIE. 



No. 3. 

Mr. La Sere to President Juarez. 

[Translation.] 

Havana, October 18, 1865. 
My Esteemed and Distinguished Eriend: This letter is addressed to 
your excellency to inform you that I came to this city and am at your orders 
from the very moment that misfortune and adversity seized upon my country, 
but I have not on that account ceased to take the greatest interest in the Tehu- 
antepec project, which I have the pleasure to inform your excellency will not 
be long in being carried to a good result. As I believe from what they write 
to me, that the works will begin very soon, I will thank your excellency to be 
pleased to order that there be sent to me, through M. L. E. Hargous, of New 
York, an order to the authorities on the isthmus of Tehuantepec to protect the 
persons who may present themselves for that purpose in the name of the Lou- 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO 693 

isiana Tehuantepec Company, and agreeably to the decrees of the government 
upon that subject. 

I request your excellency to be pleased to order that this order be sent to me 
in duplicate, and with the least possible delay. As your excellency must sup- 
pose, the Tehuantepec project has not been carried into effect before in view of 
the occurrences in Mexico. 

I have seen by the papers the hardships which your excellency has been 
obliged to undergo, but from what I see and from what intelligent persons tell 
me I believe that in the end your cause will triumph. May God so will it. 
Your excellency will be pleased to excuse the trouble which I give you in the 
midst of so many toils which surround you, and command whatever your excel- 
lency may desire from your affectionate friend, 

EMILE LA SERE. 

His Excellency Benito Juarez, 

President of the Mexican Republic, Paso del Norte. 

Copy made from the original in Spanish, at Chihuahua, in July 1866, by 
permission of President Juarez. 

H. ft. DE LA REINTRIE. 



No. 4. 

President Juarez to Mr. La Sere. 

[Translation ] 

City of El Paso, March 26, 1866. 
.My Much Esteemed Friend: I am informed by your letter of the ISth 
of October, which I received during the present month, that in consequence of 
the upheavings which your country has suffered you are now in Havana. I 
most earnestly desire that peace may soon be re-established in the United 
States, in order that you may return to your home to apply yourself with more 
tranquillity to your affairs. 

I regret much that I cannot send you the orders which you ask of me, 
because, as the time fixed in the law for commencing the work has elapsed, the 
minister who should issue the orders requires to have before him a petition from 
you, and besides, he requires to see the antecedents of the business, so that in 
view of what you may represent, and the measures which subsequently may 
have been adopted since the period of the law has elapsed, that may be deter- 
mined which in justice may be proper. 

Unfortunately we have not the archives, which, for their security and owing 
to the circumstances of the war, are now at a point distant from this place ; but 
it will not be long before they shall be at the point where the government is 
established ; so that if you will send your petition, probably by that time all the 
antecedents may be had for consideration.. I have said the same thing to Don 
Ignacio Mejia, who has spoken to me respecting this business. 

I shall be happy to know that you continue in the enjoyment of good health, 
and you may command, in whatever you please, 
Your affectionate friend, 

BENITO JUAREZ. 

Mr. Emile La Sere, Havana. 

Copy made from the original draught in Spanish, at Chihuahua, July, 1866, by 
permission of President Juarez. 

H. R. DE LA REINTRIE. 



694 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

No. 5. 

Decree of Congress of Mexico. 

[Accompanying the message of the President of the United States, thirty -ninth Congress, first 
session, House of Representatives, Ex. Doc. No. 73, part 2, page 243. — Translation.] 

Department of Government, 

Mexico, December 14, 1862. 

The citizen President of the republic has been pleased to direct to me the fol- 
lowing decree : 

Benito Juarez, constitutional President of the United Mexican States, to the inhab- 
itants of the same : 
Be it known that the congress of the union has thought proper to decree the 
following : 

Article 1. The acts of the so-called authorities, imposed by the invaders 
and traitors, or which they may hereafter establish in the republic, are null and 
void, and can never be in any way approved. 

Art. 2. All contracts celebrated by the said so-called authorities, or that may 
hereafter be celebrated, are also null and void ; and all who take part in the same 
will incur civil responsibility, in addition to the criminal responsibility already 
prescribed by the laws now in force, and such contracts can never be regarded 
in any manner, or taken into consideration, by the supreme government of the 
republic. 

Art. 3. The traitors cannot be considered under any aspect in the treaties 
which the government may celebrate with France. 

Dated in the hall of sessions of the congress of the union, in Mexico, the 
13th of December, 1862. 

PONCIANO ARRIAGA, 

Vice-President. 
FELIX ROMERO, 

Deputy Secretary. 
FRANCISCO BUSTAMENTE, 

Deputy Secretary. 

Wherefore, I order that it be printed, published, circulated, and duly observed. 

BENITO JUAREZ. 
The citizen Juan Antonio de la Fuente, 

Minister of Foreign Affairs and Government. 

National Palace of Mexico, 

December 13, 1862. 
I communicate the same to you for your intelligence, and to the consequent 
ends. 

Liberty and reform ! 

FUENTE. 
The Citizen Governor of the Federal District. 



No. 6. 

Decree of Maxunilian. 

[From the Diario del Imperio. — Translation.] 

Maximilian, emperor of Mexico : Having heard our council of ministers, we 
decree : 

Permission is given to the Louisiana Tehuantepec Company, privileged for 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO 695 

the opening of an interoceanic communication by the isthmus of this name, by- 
decree of September 7, 1857, and conformably with article 23 of the same de- 
cree, that it may transfer the residence of its directorship from New Orleans to 
New York, and change its name to that of the " New York and Tehuantepec 
Railroad and Steamship Company." 

Given at Mexico, on the 12th of October, A. D. 1S66. 

MAXIMILIAN. 

The Minister ofFomento. 

By the emperor : 

JOAQUIN DE MIER Y TERAN, 

Minister of Fomento. 



No. 7. 

Mr. Knap to Mr. De La Reintrie. 

[Translation. ] 

Washington, May 15, 1S66. 
Dear Sir : On behalf of the " Tehuantepec Transit Company," I authorize 
you to proceed as its agent to the temporary capital of the. republic of Mexico, 
and solicit of President Juarez a decree conferring on said company the right to 
construct and operate a line of railroad and telegraph across the isthmus of Te- 
huantepec. A draught, presenting such terms as will be acceptable to the com- 
pany, is herewith enclosed, which you will present to the supreme government of 
the republic for consideration, when you make formal application for the grant. 
Our company has been formed, after information obtained on inquiry from 
Seilor Romero, the minister of the Mexican republic here, to the effect that his 
government is desirous to enlist American enterprise and capital in the construct 
tion of a railroad across the isthmus, and that the privileges heretofore granted 
for its construction to the Louisiana Tehuantepec Company have long since 
lapsed. It is composed of men of influence, friendly to the cause of the liberal 
party in Mexico, the services of some of whom in behalf of that cause are already 
known to President Juarez, and we hope, therefore, our application will receive 
his favorable consideration. You may assure him that if an equitable concession 
be given our company, we have every reason to believe that the necessary cap- 
ital can be obtained in this country to construct and equip the road, in much less 
time even than the brief term named in the draught submitted by us. 
I am, sir, your obedient servant, 



CHARLES KNAP. 



Henry R. De la Reintrie, Esq. 



No. S. 

Mr. De La Reintrie to President Juarez. 

[Translation.] 

Washington, May 16, 1866. 

My Dear and Esteemed Sir: At the request of a number of gentlemen, 

friends of mine, who possess to a great degree positive influence here, and others 

among them the means necessary to undertake and carry out the enterprise of 

opening a railroad route from the Atlantic to the Pacific, across the isthmus of 



696 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

Tehuantepec, I propose, within a brief period, to proceed hence to the residence 
of the supreme government of the republic, which your excellency so worthily 
represents, for the purpose of asking that there be granted to myself and asso- 
ciates the privileges necessary for undertaking that work. 

******* 

The proposals which I shall have the honor to make to the government of the 
republic, at a later period, I am sure will be carried out by the present company, 
whose agent I have been appointed, and I hope thus to be enabled in some 
measure to aid the noble cause which loyal Mexicans are defending. Until my 
arrival at the seat of the government, I request you will not concede said priv- 
ileges to other persons who, perchance, may pi'esent themselves with the same 
view. 



1 remain your very obedient servant, 

His Excellency Benito Juarez, 

President of the Mexican Republic. 

A correct translation : 



II. R. DE LA REINTEIE. 



H. R. DE LA REINTRIE. 



No. 9. 

President Juarez to Mr. De La Reintrie 

[Translation.] 

Chihuahua, June. 22, 18G6. 

My Esteemed Sik: I reply to your estimable letter of the 16th of May. 

******* 

It seems to me that you would do well to send in your petition and proposals 
respecting the opening of the communication, by the isthmus of Tehuantepec, 
between the Atlantic and Pacific oceans, so that everything may be taken in 
view when deciding upon another petition which Mr. La Sere, who was the 
former director of the said route, is to send. 

Some months ago the said Mr. La Sere wrote to me, asking me to issue the 
respective orders to the effect that the authorities on the isthmus should not 
place any obstacle in his way in the execution of the works which the company 
was about to commence conformably to the concession made in the year 1S60. 
I replied to Mr. La Sere, saying to him that, on account of not having the 
archives at El Paso, the antecedents in this business could not be examined, for 
which reason I could not give the orders which said gentleman desired ; that 
he should make a petition in due form, setting forth the reasons which he might 
have in his favor, so that, in view of the same and of the antecedents which 
must exist in the archives of the ministry, that may be determined upon which 
should be just and proper. 

As yet the petition of Mr. La Sere does not come to hand ; and even though 
it should arrive, it will not be possible to take it into consideration until the 
government shall arrive at the place where the archives are deposited; and 
there is time for you to send in your proposals, so that everything may be had 
in view when the petition of Mr. La Sere is determined upon. 

I desire that you may enjoy good health, and repeat myself your very obe- 
dient servant, 

BENITO JUAREZ. 

Mr. H. R. De La Reintrie, 

Washington. 

A correct translation : 

H. R. DE LA REINTRIE. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 697 



No. 10. 

[For papers relating to charter of the Tehuantepec Transit Company, see 
pages 671 to 690.] 



No. 11. 



Mr. Knap to Mr. Cushing. 

Washington, November 28. 1866. 
Sir: I submit to your consideration, herewith, a decree of the Mexican gov- 
ernment of the 15th October, 1S66, granting to this company the franchise of a 
railroad and line of telegraph across the isthmus of Tebuantepec, together with 
correspondence accompanying the same I submit also, at the same time, a de- 
cree of the Mexican government of the 7th of September, 1857, conceding a 
similar privilege to the Louisiana Tehuantepec Company, together with other 
later decrees and miscellaneous documents on the same subject. And in view 
of these papers I request your opinion as counsel, on the following questions, 
namely : 

First. Is the decree in favor of the Tehuantepec Transit Company a valid 
one, in substance and in form, to vest in the company the rights and privileges 
which it purports to grant in the name of the Mexicau government ? 

Second. Is the validity of this grant impaired or injuriously affected by the 
prior grant to the Louisiana Tehuantepec Company ? 
I remain, yours respectfully, 

CHARLES KNAP, President. 
Caleb Cushing, Esq. 



No. 12. 
Mr. Cushing to Mr. Knap. 

Washington, November 30, 1866. 

Sir: I have examined the documents submitted to me by your letter of the 
2Sth, and have considered the questions propounded in it. 

"Is the decree in favor of the Tehuantepec Transit Company a valid one, in 
substance and in form, to vest in the company the rights and privileges which 
it purports to grant in the name of the Mexican government 1 " 

I respond to this question in general, and without qualification, affirmatively. 

The decree possesses on its face all the ordinary elements and forms of law. 

It appears to have been issued on due application, after long and careful re- 
flection, by competent authority of the executive of the Mexican republic. And 
its matter is within the apparent scope of the constitutional powers of the presi- 
dent of that republic, as vindicated, not only by the letter of organic law, but 
by multitudinous precedents in the political or administrative history of the gov- 
ernment. 

Although proof as to amount of what is technically understood as legal con- 
sideration is not material to the maintenance of a public grant in anywise, 
except possibly in some cases of fraud, still it may be pertinent to observe here, 
in justice to President Juarez and his ministers, that the present concession is 
beneficial in its terms to Mexico, and imports value to the Mexican government 
and people, equally with any other concessions of the same character hereto- 
fore made by that government. 



698 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

I am not able to conceive of anything to he said in derogation of these con 
elusions, unless there be suggestion of inquiry whether President Juarez, by 
whose authority the decree was issued, was at the time the lawful executive of- 
the government of the Mexican republic. 

To such a suggestion, there is, in my opinion, complete and conclusive an- 
swer, whether we regard the subject from a point of view in Mexico or in the 
United States. 

In Mexico, D. Benito Juarez, and he alone, is recognized as in fact president 
of the republic. No other person in Mexico offers pretensions to this office ; no 
other person there exercises powers as such ; no other person is dealt with or 
obeyed there as such by any authority, civil or military, either of the republic 
generally, or of any one of its States 

According to the received principles of public law, these facts decisively es- 
tablish the validity, as power, of any official act of President Juarez, not in con- 
flict with the constitution of the Mexican republic. 

It would avail nothing to show that President Juarez holds his office at the 
present time under exceptional circumstances. A similar objection might be 
offered to the tenure of office of a great majority of the persons who have, at 
successive periods, exercised the supreme executive power in Mexico. Yet the 
acts of any of sucb persons, when universally recognized in Mexico as such 
executive in fact, and some of them even while competing claimants of execu- 
tive power existed there, were, and are still, received as completely legal, in both 
domestic and foreign relations; their legislative decrees and grants constitute 
integral parts of the domestic law, registered as such in the public archives, 
printed in the statute-books, and accepted and acted on by succeeding presidents; 
and they were officially treated with by foreign governments. 

Nor Avould it avail anything to show that there exists, in the United States 
or elsewhere, outside of Mexico, some person claiming or pretending that he is 
or should be president of the Mexican republic. We might as well demur to 
any decree or official act of the Emperor Napoleon because of the pretensions 
of the Comte de Chambord or of the Comte de Paris. Critical thinkers in 
France may maintain the primary legitimacy of the Comte de Chambord, or the 
secondary legitimacy of the Comte de Paris ; but is Napoleon any the less in 
France Emperor of the French? So in this case. Mere pretenders, whether 
republican or royal, are still pretenders only, and not the government. 

And, from a point of view within the United States, the competency of Pres- 
ident Juarez is absolutely fixed by the fact that he, and he alone, is recognized 
by the government of the United States. 

No rule of public law is more incontestable than that, as to any questions of 
legality in the United States, it is the recognition of the government of the 
United States which determines definitively and exclusively what person is or 
is not the legitimate executive of any foreign government. 

Pursuing the analogy already indicated, to object to this grant of President 
Juarez because of any supposed presidential pretensions of some person outside 
of Mexico, would be just as absurd as to object to a grant of any franchise to a 
citizen of the United States by the Emperor Napoleon, because of its wanting 
the signature of the Comte de Chambord or the Comte de Paris. 

For the same reason it may be assumed, without argument, that the validity 
of this act of President Juarez is in no respect whatever affected by the other 
fact, that at the time of its date there was, or might have been, somewhere in 
Mexico, an Austrian archduke pretending to be emperor of Mexico. Suffice it 
to say that the imperial pi'etensions of that personage have never been recog- 
nized by the government of the United States. 

Nor will it prejudice, but on the contrary it will strengthen, the force of the 
acts of President Juarez, if the French should undertake to set up in Mexico 
some Mexican puppet of theirs in place of the fugitive Austrian. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 699 

Undoubtedly, at a time hereafter, more or less remote, D. Benito Juarez will 
be succeeded by some other person, who may be elected to the office of presi- 
dent in his place. But this decree will continue to be in force as a lawful act of 
the Mexican government. To suppose the contrary of this— to suppose that 
each successive president of the Mexican republic is to undo the official acts of 
his predecessor, is t® presume that Mexico has sunk down into a state of help- 
less and hopeless impotency, anarchy and chaos, such as to render her continued 
existence in the family of nations unendurable, either to America or to Europe. 

1 repeat, then, that in my opinion this grant is valid and complete to vest in 
the Tehuantepec Transit Company all the franchise which it purports to bestow. 

Your second question is in the following words: 

"Second. Is the validity of this grant impaired or injuriously affected by the 
prior grant to the Louisiana Tehuantepec Company?" 

By the documents relative to this question, it appears that the president of 
the Mexican republic, Ignacio Comonfort, having declared that a privilege 
granted to other parties, Sloo and his associates, for the construction of a rail- 
road across the isthmus of Tehuantepec, had lapsed and become insubsistent by 
reason of non-performance of conditions, proceeded, on the 7th of September, 
1857, to grant the same or similar privileges to new parties, designated as the 
Louisiana Tehuantepec Company, which company, failing to comply with the 
conditions of its concession, applied for and obtained, on the 2Sth of March, 
1859, from the president of the Mexican republic, Benito Juarez, a prorogation 
of the times of performance; and again on the 25th of October, 1S60, obtained 
from the same president (Benito Juarez) an additional and still further proroga- 
tion of its times of performance. 

It also appears that on the 15th of October, 1S66, the same president of the 
republic, by decree of that date, declared that "the Louisiana Tehuantepec 
Company," having violated the obligations imposed on it by the decree of Sep- 
tember 7, 1857, and those of March 28, 1S59, and of October 25, 1860, in which 
were conceded adjournments of the times fixed to commence and complete the 
railroad in question, therefore the said privilege is declared lapsed and insub- 
sistent, (se declara caduco e insubsistente el mencionado privilegio.) 

Now the established rules of public law require us to presume that the govern- 
ment of the Mexican republic acted in good faith in each one of this series of 
acts, namely : 

First in declaring void the concession anterior to that of the Louisiana Tehuan- 
tepec Company, and in conceding the privilege to that company; 

Secondly, in the two successive prorogations granted to the Louisiana Tehuan- 
tepec Company to cure its reiterated failures to perform ; and. 

Thirdly, in finally pronouncing the absolute nullity, on account of such fail- 
ures, of the concession made to the Louisiana Tehuantepec Company. 

True it is that the first and second of these acts of the Mexican government 
were done by President Comonfort ; whilst the third, fourth, and fifth were done 
by President Juarez. But, in this distinction there is no cause to attribute su- 
perior force to President Comonfort's acts, and inferior to those of President 
Juarez. 

Least of all does it become competent for the Louisiana Tehuantepec Com- 
pany to call in question the efficiency of the final annulment of its charter by 
President Juarez, in view of the fact that down to that time it existed only in 
virtue of the successive acts of resurrection conceded to it by the favor of the 
same President Juarez. 

In fine, the Louisiana Tehuantepec Company had ceased to exist by the limi- 
tations of its charter ; the competent executive authority of the Mexican repub- 
lic decreed that such was the fact, in due form of administrative law ; the ques- 
tion of its existence as a corporation, holding the original franchisees closed by 
that decree, which implies verity in all matters of material fact comprehended 



700 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

within it; and, if the company have any cause of complaint in this respect, that 
complaint, by the express terms of its charter, must be addressed to the Mexican 
government, and does not concern in any way the Tehuantepec Transit Com- 
pany any more than the like complaint of Sloo and his associates, on whose 
ruins the Louisiana Company was founded, concerned the Louisiana Company. 

Finally, if anything more were needed to demonstrate the present nullity of 
the charter of the Louisiana Tehuantepec Company, it may be found in the con- 
sideration, that, as appears by one of the documents before me, this company in 
October last had recourse to the pretended Emperor Maximilian for the pur- 
pose of restoring its extinct vitality ; which, in its legal and political effect, is 
precisely as if a person holding any lapsed privilege, which had been lawfully 
conceded to him by President Lincoln, but which privilege had become forfeited 
because of non-performance of conditions, should present himself to-day at 
Washington, claiming the enjoyment of the extinct privilege in virtue of a pro- 
fessed renewal of his charter under the official seal of the late government of the 
Confederate States. Non tali auxilio * tempus eget. 

In the document before me is manifested another fact, which, if not of decisive 
importance legally, yet is interesting and significant in the same relation. The 
Louisiana Tehuantepec Company, it appears, applied to President Juarez, by 
letter of the 18th of October, 1865, for an order to the public authorities on the 
isthmus to protect the company in commencing the work prescribed by its charter. 
To which application President Juarez replied immediately after its reception, 
in March, 1866, that, much to his regret, he could not issue the order re- 
quested, because of the grant having lapsed for non-performance, and in amica- 
ble spirit inviting the company to present a petition in due form for the revalida- 
tion of its grant, on proper proofs that incidents had occurred to excuse non- 
performance. Instead of responding to this friendly overture on the part of the 
government of the republic, the company, it would seem, preferred and elected 
to stake its fortunes on those of the Archduke Maximilian, and obtained an 
act of confirmation or revalidation from him, during the very same month in 
which its default was being authenticated in legal form by the government of 
•the republic, and a new concession made to the Tehuantepec Transit Company. 
I have the honor to be your obedient servant, . 

C. CUSHING. 

Charles Knap, Esq., 

President of the Tehuantepec Transit Company. 



No. 13. 



Mr. Gushing 's second opinion. 

Washington, December 21, 1866. 

Dear Sir : I communicate to you herewith some supplemental observations 
•on the subject of the legality of the charter of the Tehuantepec Transit Com- 
pany, these observations been designed to meet the only objections, pretending 
to seriousness, which have come to my knowledge, in the way of criticism of 
the positions and conclusions of the opinion addressed to you by me on the 30th 
of November. 

I submit the present observations, not because of doubt in my mind regarding 
any doctrine of law or matter of fact comprised in that opinion, but for the pur- 
pose, mainly, of justifying the action and vindicating the honor of President 
Juarez, and of the ministers of state and envoy of the Mexican republic, in so 
far as their acts have been called in question, with reference to the decree de- 
claring the caducity of the grant of the Louisiana Tehuantepec Company, and 
conceding the lapsed franchise to the Tehuantepec Transit Company. 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 70l 

1. The most unjust and ungenerous reflections Lave been cast on tlie conduct 
of those high officers of the Mexican republic on account of the grantees having 
been required to make a deposit of one hundred thousand dollars as security to 
the Mexican government that this grant shall not, like those of the Louisiana 
and other previous companies, be trifled with and allowed to lapse, without ac- 
complishing the great objects of public utility contemplated by the Mexican gov- 
ernment. It seems to me that this precaution, however seemingly onerous to 
you and your associates, was a wise one on the part of President Juarez, en- 
titling him to commendation instead of reproach on the part of all disinterested 
persons, whether in Mexico or the United States. 

2. Objection has been made because of the caducity of the grant to the 
Louisiana Company not having been determined by a judgment of a court of 
law. 

This objection comes with very ill grace from the Louisiana Company, which 
itself starts with a grant based on the assumption of the validity of the avoidance 
of a previous grant to the Sloo Company and to the Mixed Company, without 
the intervention of a court of law. 

The decree issued by President Comonfort, September 3, 1S57, declaring 
the lapse of the previous grants, and which immediately preceded the grant to 
the Louisiana Company, is in the following words, namely : 

" Sole article. — The privileges granted on the 5th of February, 1853, to Mr. 
A. G. Sloo and associates, and to the company entitled ' Mixed,' for the open- 
ing of interoceanic communication through the isthmus of Tehuantepec, is de- 
clared null and void, the grantees having violated the obligations imposed by 
the decree of the above date ; wherefore I order it to be published, circulated, 
and duly carried into effect." (United States Senate Documents, 35th Congress, 
1st session, Executive No. 72, page 54.) 

Thus it appears that if the want of a judicial decree annulling the previous 
grant were a defect in the title of the Tehuantepec Company, it would be an 
equally serious defect, and for the same reason, in the title of the Louisiana 
Company. 

Nay, supposing this defect to exist, it would retroact to the effect of reviving 
the original grant of the same privilege to D. Jose Garay, which lies at the 
foundation of the whole series of concessions appertaining to the interoceanic 
communication by the isthmus of Tehuantepec ; for, at a period when all his 
rights have passed away in due course of administration and legislation, he 
might bethink himself of the similar device of claiming that it was the peculiar 
and exclusive function of the courts of law to declare a concession lapsed for 
default of compliance with conditions on the part of the concessionary. (Varie- 
dades de Jurisprudencia, torn, ii, p. 390.) 

But, indeed, this conception arises from misapprehension of the established 
system of public law in the Mexican republic, according to which all conces- 
sions of roads, canals, railways, and other similar works of internal improvement 
are matters, both in grant and construction of terms, of purely administrative 
resort, except in so far as they fall within the province of legislation. Neither the 
concession nor the determination of the question of forfeiture for non-performance 
of conditions is of the particular resort of the courts of law, unless referred to 
them by the administrative authorities. (Lares, Derecho Administrativo, [Mex- 
icano,] pp. 66, 76, 146.) 

3. But all these matters are of secondary importance at this moment, inas- 
much as the present subject is definitely disposed of by the subsisting constitu- 
tion of the Mexican republic, the legislation under the same, and the corre- 
sponding action of the executive. 

Section 22, article 72, title 4, paragraph 3, of the Mexican constitution, reads 
as follows : 

" Congress has the power * * of making laws regarding general means 



702 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

of communication, and regarding the post office and mails." (Docs. House of 
Rep., 37th Congress, 2d sess., Exec. No. 100, p. 140.) 

The Mexican republic has had so much painful experience of the effects of 
civil war and of invasion as sufficed to admonish the statesmen who framed the 
present constitution of the necessity of providing therein for the possible contin- 
gency of a forced interruption of the sessions of congress. In view of which 
they introduced into the body of the constitution the following provision, 
namely : 

"Article 29. In cases of invasion, grave disturbance of the public peace, or 
whatever cause which may put society in great peril or conflict, solely the Pres- 
ident of the republic, in concurrence with the council of ministers, and with the 
approbation of the congress of the Union, and in the recess of this, of the per- 
manent deputation, may suspend the guarantees established by this constitution, 
with exception of those which assure the life of man; but such suspension shall 
be only for a limited time, by means of general provisions, and of such a char- 
acter as not to favor a determined individual purpose. If the suspension take 
place during the session of congress they shall grant such authorization as they 
shall esteem necessary to enable the executive to confront the circumstances. If 
it shall take place during recess, the permanent deputation shall, without delay, 
convoke the congress for its advice and action." (Docs. House of Rep., 37th 
Congress, 2d sess., Exec. No. 100, p. 142.) 

In precise compliance with this provision of the constitution it was that, on 
the 11th of December, 1861, after the war with France had begun, the Mexican 
congress adopted a law, the second article of which is as follows : 

"Article 2. The executive is hereby invested with plenary power to make 
whatever regulations he may judge convenient, without other restrictions than 
those of saving the national independence and the integrity of the; national ter- 
ritory, the form of government established by the constitution, and the principles 
and laws of reform." (Docs. House of Rep., 39th Congress, 1st sess., Exec. 
No. 73, part. 3, p. 24.) 

The provisions of this law had a certain term, the lapse of which would de- 
termine the authority thus conferred on the executive; and the circumstances 
of the country continuing the same after the expiration thereof, congress issued 
another law on the 3d of May, 1862, continuing in the person of the President 
the same plenary powers of administration and legislation; and again, the same 
circumstances continuing, on the 27th of October, 1862; and, finally, on the 
27th of May, 1863, congress enacted that the extraordinary powers theretofore 
granted to the executive were to continue until thirty days after the next meet- 
ing of the congress in its regular session, or until the termination of war with 
France. (Docs. House of Rep., 39th Congress, 1st sess., Exec. No. 73, part. 2, 
p. 24.) 

Seeing that the condition of the country continued to be such as not to enable 
the next meeting of congress in regular session to take place, and seeing that the 
war with.France has not yet terminated, thus it came to pass that the President 
of the Mexican republic remains invested with the legislative powers conferred 
upon him by the successive acts of congress. 

Among these powers, as we have seen, is that of making laws concerning 
general means of communication, in virtue of which President Juarez, by a de- 
cree having the forms and force of law, declared the nullity of the grant to the 
Louisiana Company, and conferred the franchise on the Tehuantepec company. 
4. Independently of the clause of the constitution, however, and in respect to 
matters not thus defined to have been of mere legislative resort, certain it is that 
a multitude of analogous or similar matters are, and always have been, compre- 
hended within the functions of the administrative authorities of Mexico, either 
the supreme or the local, according to the nature of the subject-matter. 

Such matters have been determined administratively, except where circum- 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO 703 

stances might occur to subject them to legislative supervision; but they have 
not been considered as questions of judicial jurisdiction, unless by previous ad- 
ministrative reference to the courts of law. Even if of a contentious nature, 
they still remain of administrative jurisdiction; and in such case the ministers 
constitute the "ordinary administrative tribunal," and "each minister is to dis- 
charge the functions of an ordinary administrative tribunal in all matters which 
are of the attribution of his branch of the public service." (Lares, ubi supra, 
p. 381.) 

Finally, the same author defines the special subjects of controversy, the solu- 
tion of which is of purely administrative resort, and among them, especially 
public works, as, for example, canals and railroads, (p. 170,) which subjects he 
had already defined as being essentially acts of administration, (p. 76;) and, in 
reference to all such matters, he concludes that the contentious administrative 
jurisdiction is vested in appropriate administrative tribunals, those tribunals be- 
ing, in the first instance, each one of the ministers of state, in their respective 
departments, and, of course, the minister of fomento in all matters of internal 
improvement. (Ubi supra, pp. 377, 3S2, 383.) 

The jurisprudence of Mexico, in these respects, corresponds with that of Spain, 
from which it is derived. (Colmeiro, Derecho Administrative, Espaiiol, torn, i, 
p. 38; torn, ii, pp. 243, 250, 232.) 

The same principles of public right prevail in other countries of the civil law 
so called; that is, whose jurisprudence is derived primarily from Rome. For 
illustration of this it needs only to refer to the case of France. (Laferriere, 
Cours de Droit Public et Administratis 4me ed., torn, ii, pp. 232, 742.) 

Circumstances do undoubtedly exist in which the extinction of a privilege 
requires, by the law of Mexico, to be verified by a declaratory sentence. Such 
is the case of imputed forfeiture, because of the abuse of a privilege by overstep- 
ing the limit of the concession. But no such sentence is required when the 
privileges lapse by the death of the grantee, if it be a personal grant, or the 
destruction of the thing itself, if it be a real grant; or by the expiration of the 
period of the grant; or by non-performance within the time prescribed by the 
conditions of the concession. (Escriche, Die. de Legislacion, sub. voc. Privi- 
legio.) 

And the lapse of a grant by non-performance in the prescribed time is one of 
the precise cases of which the granting administrative authority has jurisdiction. 
(Compare Lares, p. 66 ; Colmeiro, torn, ii, pp. 75, 87, 225, 228 ; Laferriere, torn, 
ii, p. 770.) 

The theory of this whole doctrine is that the permanent and general interests 
of society cannot be sacrificed for the occasional and special interests of indi- 
viduals, as would be the case if there Avere no separation of powers, and if the 
courts were capable, at the instance of such special interests of individuals, of 
interposing, so as, in effect or tendency, to stbp the wheels of the government. 

Now, true it is, that administrative jurisprudence is more carefully reduced 
to a system, more thoroughly understood as the subject of many learned treatises, 
in the countries of the Roman law, than it is in the United States ; and it thus 
happens that the American lawyer is prone hastily to jump to the concluskm 
that all controversies of private right are justiciable at once by the courts of 
law; which disposition of the common-law mind has led to the denial in certain 
quarters of the validity of the charter of the Tehuantepec Transit Company, 
because of the courts of law not having previously determined the caducity of 
the privileges of the Louisiana Company. 

But we have the thing in the United States most unquestionably, although 
not invested in the same conspicuous forms as in Spain and Mexico. 

On recurring to the subjects hereinbefore referred to, as of administrative re- 
sort by the civil law, and as involving quasi-judicial determination by the heads 
of the executive departments, it is plain to see that many of those matters are 
matters of administrative justice under the government of the United States. 



704 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO 

But we have no occasion to assert the identity of the administrative institu- 
tions of the United States and Mexico, or the similitude of their forms of law. 
Profound differences exist in that respect between the institutions and forms of 
the respective countries. 

In the present case of pretended conflict of right between the Tehuantepec 
Company and the Louisiana Company, the very possibility of any such question 
of competency or conflict is precluded by the fact that the declaration of the 
caducity of the privileges of the Louisiana Company, and the grant of franchise 
to the Tehuantepec company, are the act, at the same time, of the President of 
the republic in his executive capacity as the supreme executive power of the 
republic, and also in his legislative capacity as the provisional depositary of the 
supreme legislative power of the congress. 

All these conclusions might indeed have been presumed, from the circum- 
stance that the acts in question emanated from men so thoroughly versed in the 
institutions and jurisprudence of their country as President Juarez and the Min- 
ister Yglesias, to say nothing of the other heads of executive departments, such 
as the Ministers Lerdo de Tejada and Mejia. 

5. I deem it wholly superfluous here to reargue the question of the rightful 
possession of the presidential office by President Juarez, the tenure of which 
rests with absolute legal certainty, in Mexico, upon the fact of his being the 
recognized President of the republic there ; and, in the United States, in his 
also being recognized by the government of the United States. 

The same consideration relieves me of the necessity of showing, as might 
easily be done, that when President Comonfort annulled the privileges of the 
Sloo Company and the Mixed Company, and granted the franchise to the Lou- 
isiana Company, his pretensions to the executive were, to say the least, more 
contestable, in strict law, than those of Juarez at the present time. 

6. Let me say, the construction of a railroad and line of telegraph for inter- 
oceanic communication by the way of the isthmus of Tehuantepec, with suit- 
ble harbor improvements at Coatzacoalcos and La Ventosa, including light- 
houses, is an object of great and manifest utility to the whole commercial world, 
but primarily so to the United States and the Mexican republic. It has at all 
times been thus regarded by the public authorities and the people of both 
countries. The United States government at one time desired to possess the 
exclusive right of this communication, but has long since desisted from such 
pretensions, out of respect for the territorial sovereignty of Mexico. At a 
later day, the privilege of constructing this communication being vested in the 
hands of individual citizens of the United States, was made the object of spe- 
cial treaty protection by joint act of the American and Mexican governments. 
Now, as then, it is impossible that the American government should fail to con- 
sider with good will a great enterprise of such immense value to the people of 
the United States situated on bo'th oceans. As to Mexico, she has been con- 
stantly ready heretofore, and will doubtless continue to favor this great work, 
by whatsoever persons or parties, and with whatsoever political opinions, she 
may have been or may be ruled. To her it would not only be the means of 
great economic improvements and of large national revenue in the fifteen per 
cent, of the net income of the communication, but an efficient step, also, to 
more stable nationality, by reason of the interests of other powers in its com- 
mon use, and their consequent mutual friendship for the republic. President 
Juarez has therefore done a signal service to his country, in embracing the 
opportunity, when the franchise of the communication had lapsed in the hands 
of the previous grantees, to place it in the hands of yourself and your associ- 
ates, with new provisions of guarantee for the construction of the railway and 
telegraph line, and for the safeguard of the interests of the Mexican republic. 
Under these circumstances, it would be injurious to the people of Mexico to 
doubt the future surety of the grant, whoever may be the President of the 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 705 

Mexican republic, whether D. Benito Juarez, or some other person who shall 
be constitutionally raised to power. And, therefore, it needs only that all con- 
flict of private interests in the United States shall be caused to cease, either by 
the conciliation or the discouragement of parties setting up title in the lapsed 
franchise of the Louisiana Company, to have this great undertaking placed on 
the most solid foundation, and to insure the speedy completion of an ktter- 
oceanic communication, entitled, by its nature and its value, to the protection 
and support of all nations and all governments, but especially of the Mexican 
republic and the United States. 

7. The Archduke Maximilian is respectable as a man ; he is of eminent rank 
as a cadet of the imperial house of Austria ; he may proudly appeal to the his- 
torical recollections of descent from the great Emperor Charles, whom Hernan 
Cortes served (with but poor requital) in the conquest and colonization of Xew 
Spain. But all these titles to consideration avail him nothing in the desperate 
enterprise he has undertaken of establishing a European dynasty on the soil of 
Mexico. In the eyes of all America, he is simply a foreign adventurer, the in- 
truded instrument of the Emperor of the French, but whom the arms of France 
could not maintain against the mere passive resistance of President Juarez, 
standing statue-like as the impersonation of Mexican independence, and of 
American protestation against the intermeddling of Europe in the internal affairs 
of the republican peoples of America. 

Santa Ana, Almonte, Miramon, Ortega — these might have been names of 
power, in other circumstances, to serve as rallying points of party or faction : 
but when the French shall have embarked at Vera Cruz to the last man, the 
Mexican republic will, in the estimation of the people of Mexico and of the 
world, be only half rehabilitated, unless Benito Juarez resumes the place, from 
which French intervention drove him, in the palace of the government at the 
capital, as the constitutional President of the republic. 

Whether he shall do so or not, and whether he shall or not be re-elected, his 
official acts as President, done in the discharge of the extraordinary functions 
with which the last constitutional congress invested him, must and will continue 
to have the efficacious force of law. To deny this, to say Juarez was not the 
legitimate President of the Mexican republic when he did those acts, would be 
to say that the Mexican republic had ceased to be; it would be to aver that the 
very life of the Mexican nation and its government ended with the French in- 
vasion ; that all its national institutions had perished utterly, and become as if 
they had never existed ; that its treaty relations with foreign powers were ex- 
tinct ; and that the national sovereignty of the republic lies dead and buried 
under the imperial pretensions of Maximilian. 

Of course, no future President or congress of Mexico can or will say this : 
they must admit, nay, they must peremptorily insist, that the life of the repub- 
lic had not been cut off or suspended for a moment ; and to prove this they must 
adduce and rely upon two classes of facts, namely : first, the uninterrupted rec- 
ognition of the Mexican republic by the United States in the person of President 
Juarez ; and, secondly, the uninterrupted exercise of the supreme functions of 
government, executive and legislative, by President Juarez, the legal monu- 
ments of which consist of all such laws, decrees, and orders as were issued by 
him officially, whether at Mexico, at Paso del Norte, at Chihuahua, or anywhere 
else, in the proper form, with due attestation of the respective minister of state, 
and within the scope of the extraordinary powers intrusted to him by the last 
Congress. 

In view of all which, I reiterate my opinion of the perfect legal validity of 
the charter of the Tehuantepec Transit Company. 
I have the honor to be, very respectfuliv, 

C. GUSHING. 

Charles Knap, Esq., President. 
45 MBX. 



706 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

No. 14. 
Opinion of Hon. Reverdy Johnson. 

Washington, December 28, 1866. 

My opinion is requested on these questions : 

First. Is the decree in favor of the Tehuautepec Transit Company of the 
1.5th October, 1866, a valid one, substantially and formally, so as to vest in the 
company the rights and privileges it purports to grant 1 

Second. If it be otherwise valid, is its validity impaired or injuriously affected 
by the prior grant to the Louisiana Tehuantepec Company, of the 7th of Sep- 
tember, 1857 1 

1. The grant of October, 1866, was made by the executive of the govern- 
ment of Mexico, which, before that date, was, and ever since has been, the only 
government of that country recognized by our Congress and President. In the 
cases of Rose vs. Himely, 4 Cra., 241, and G-elston vs. Hoyt, 3 Wheat., 246, it 
was held by the Supreme Court of the United States to be a doctrine of national 
law, that it is the exclusive province of governments to recognize new states ; 
and that until this is done, " courts of justice are bound to consider the ancient 
state of things are remaining unaltered." 

The grant of October, 1866, therefore, is as valid "as it would have been if 
the government of which Juarez was President had never been disturbed. In 
that case, his authority to make the grant, no prior legal one existing, cannot be 
questioned. Grants of analogous character have frequently been made by the 
executive of Mexico, and never called into doubt. I am, therefore, clear in the 
opinion, on the hypothesis that there was no previous legal and existing grant 
of a franchise, that the one in question of October, 1866, is perfectly valid. 

2. Was the grant of the 7th of September, 1857, to the Louisiana Company 
a valid one, when that of the 15th October, 1^66, was made to the Transit 
Company ] 

I am equally clear in the opinion that it was not. By its terms, the periods 
for beginning and completing the work were fixed. If neither was complied 
with, the grant was to be void, or by proper authority might be declared void. 
That neither of these conditions was fulfilled is established by the fact that the 
company, on the 28th of March, 1859, and 25th of October, I860, applied for, 
and obtained from Juarez, an extension of the time. When the extended time 
elapsed, the work was not begun or completed, and the franchise was conse- 
quently subject to forfeiture. No further time was asked of Juarez ; but in 
answering, in March, 1866, an application made to him for a different purpose 
by the company, in October, 1865, and refusing it, on the ground that the fran- 
chise had lapsed from failure of performance, Juarez requested them to show 
him why the failure had occurred. Instead of doing this, however, they ap- 
plied to Maximilian for a confirmative grant, and obtained it. For the reasons 
stated under the first head, this grant was wholly void. Maximilian was then, 
and is now, neither the government de facto nor de jure of Mexico. The 
United States have not only not recognized him in either capacity, but have ex- 
pressly refused to do so. This being the case, the only government competent 
to decide the question of forfeiture was that of Juarez. And, in the due exer- 
cise of that authority, he, in proper form, adjudged the forfeiture, and made the 
grant of the 15th of October, 1866. The validity of such grant, therefore, in 
my opinion, is in no way impaired or injuriously affected by the prior one to 
the Louisiana Company. If there was any government in Mexico in 1866 
competent to grant such a franchise, (and that will hardly be denied,) it was 
that of Juarez, and not of Maximilian. 

In the eye of the law, the latter is but an adventurer, seeking to overturn 



CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 707 

the existing government, and until he succeeds in this, (an event most improba- 
ble at any time, and certainly not brought about in 1866,) that government is to 
be esteemed the only legitimate one, and, being so, was capable, on the 15th 
October, 1866, of making the grant of that date to the Tehuantepec Transit 
Company. 

REVERDY JOHNSON. 
Charles Knap, Esq., 

President Tehuantepec Transit Company, New York. 



No. 15. 
Supplement to Mr. Cushing's opinions. 

Washington, January 17, 1867. 

Dear Sir : Intimation comes to me of the assertion, by some persons con- 
nected with the Louisiana Tehuantepec Company, that the law of the Mexican 
republic, declaring the privilege of that company forfeited by lapse of time, 
is in conflict with an article (Article 35) in the concession to the company to the 
effect that " any doubt or difference in the execution or interpretation of this 
privilege shall be decided by arbitrators." 

This new pretension of the Louisiana Company apparently surrenders the old 
one, which assumed the legal necessity of a decree of a court of law, to pro- 
nounce the lapse of its privilege for non-performance in time. 

But the pretension is manifestly unfounded. The language of the article is 
plain; the meaning equally so. It refers to any question within the concession, 
not to the concession itself. The inquiry whether the concession exists or not, 
whether it has or has not expired by lapse of time, is not inquiry of its execution 
or interpretation. 

Besides which, this article must be construed in collation with article 21, which 
declares that " the company shall have no greater rights than Mexicans, nor any 
other means of enforcing them than those conceded to the latter by the laws of the 
republic." And the laws of the republic annul the privilege of the Louisiana 
Company, both in form and in fact. 

These reiterated efforts to impeach the legality and the good faith of the acts 
of the government of President Juarez in this respect compel the exposition of 
certain matters of fact and of law, which might otherwise have been pretermitted. 

The Louisiana Tehuantepec Company seem to labor under serious misappre- 
hensions on the subject of their present and possible future relation to the Mexi- 
can government. 

I referred, in my opinion of the 30th of November, to the fact that the Louisi- 
ana Company had elected to throw itself upon the usurper Maximilian for rehabil- 
itation, instead of availing itself, as it was invited to do, of the generous disposi- 
tion of President Juarez in their behalf. 

In doing this, in obtaining such a concession from Maximilian, they seem to 
have overlooked the law enacted by the congress of the Mexican republic on the 
13th of December, 1862, to the effect that all such acts are null and void ; that 
all who take part in the same are both civilly and criminally responsible therefor ; 
and that such concessions can never receive any consideration at the hands of 
the supreme government of the Mexican republic ; that is to say, the Louisiana 
company has not only lost its grant by lapse of time, but it has, in effect, out- 
lawed itself by undertaking to deal with the usurped government, and in defi- 
ance of the laws of the republic. 

In Mexico the parties engaged in the transaction are criminally responsible. 
Any property the company may have on the soil of Mexico has become forfeit 



708 CONDITION OF AFFAIRS IN MEXICO. 

to the government. Its charter would have incurred forfeiture under this law 
if it had not lapsed by neglect; and should the company think hereafter of ap- 
plying to any government of the Mexican republic for favors, it will have its 
treasonable practices with Maximilian thrown in its face; and by those prac- 
tices, which are alike illegal in the United States as in Mexico, and offensive to 
the unchangeable political convictions of both countries, it has voluntarily 
stripped itself of all faculty of complaint, either to the Executive or the Con- 
gress of the United States. In truth, by reason of this act, the present legal 
condition of the Louisiana Company is quite as desperate in the United States 
as it is in Mexico. 

Maximilian and his partisans, in contemplation of law, are persons in rebel- 
lion against the Mexican republic. Any contract made with such rebels by a 
citizen of the United States is, by the universal public law, " so fraught with 
illegality and turpitude as to be utterly null and void," being to the prejudice 
of the government recognized by the United States. (Kenneth vs. Chambers, 14 
Howard, 38; Williams vs. Oliver, 12 Howard, 111; De Wutz vs. Hendricks, 9 
Moore, 586; Jones vs. Garcia del Rio, 1 Turner & Russell, 497; Yrisarri vs. 
Clemens, 3 Bingham, 432.) 

Such were the law and foreign policy of the United States in past times, and 
which the great events of our latter domestic history have but served to 
strengthen and confirm. 

Annexed hereto you will find translations of the concession made by Maxi- 
milian to the Louisiana Company, and of the above-mentioned decree of the 
congress of Mexico. This decree, be it observed, was passed at a regular ses- 
sion of the Mexican congress while in the full and complete exercise of its con- 
stitutional functions at the capital, and during a regular elective period of the 
presidential authority of President Juarez. It is not subject to any cavil what- 
soever in the relation of law. It is just as duly and unquestionably a supreme 
law of the Mexican republic as the act of Congress "to establish the judicial 
courts of the United States" is a supreme law of these United States. 
I am, very respectfully, 

C. GUSHING. 

Charles Knap, Esq. 



No. 1. 

[From the Diario del Imperio. — Translation.] 

Maximilian, Emperor of Mexico. 

Having heard our council of ministers, we decree : 

Permission is given to the Louisiana Tehuan tepee Company, privileged for 
the opening of an interoceanic communication by the isthmus of this name, by 
decree of September 7, 1857, and conformably with article 23d of the said de- 
cree, that it may transfer the residence of its directorship from New Orleans to 
New York, and change its name to that of the "New York and Tehuantepec 
Railroad and Steamship Company." Given at Mexico on the 12th of October, 
A. D. 1866. 

MAXIMILIAN. 

The Minister of Fomento. 

By the Emperor: 

JOAQUIN DE MIER Y TERAN, 

The Minister of Fomento. 



INDEX TO PAPERS 



RELATING TO 



MEXICAN AFFAIRS IN 1866 



From whom and 
to whom. 



Mr. Romero to Mr. 

Seward. 

Enclosure 

Mr. Seward to Mr. 

Romero. 
Mr. Romero to Mr. 

Seward. 
Mr. Seward to Mr. 

Romero. 
Mr. Romero to Mr. 

Seward. 
Enclosure 1 



Enclosure 2 

Mr. Seward to Mr. 

Romero. 
Mr. Romero to Mr. 

Seward. 
Mr. Seward to Mr. 

Romero. 
Mr. Romero to Mr. 

Seward. 

Enclosure 



Mr. Romero to Mr. 
Seward. 



Enclosure 



Mr. Seward to Mr. 

Romero. 
Mr. Romero to Mr. 

Seward. 
Enclosure 1 



Enclosures 2 and 3 



Enclosure 4 

Enclosures 5 and 6 

Enclosure 7 

Mr. Seward to Mr. 

Romero. 
Mr. Romero to Mr. 

Seward. 
Enclosure 1 

Enclosure 2 

Mr. Seward to Mr. 
Romero. 



Date. 


1866. 
Mar. 20 


Feb. 
July 


29 
5 


April 


2 


July 


5 


April 


14 


Mar. 


5 


1865. 
Sept. 9 

1866. 
July 5 


April 


15 


July 


5 


May 


9 


April 26 


May 


18 


186; 
Dec. 


31 


186( 
July 


6 


May 


28 


Jan. 


29 


Feb. [ 


,10 


Mar. 


6 


April 14 


April 23 
July 7 


June 


10 


June 


8 


June 
July 


10 

7 



Subject. 



No. 1.— Condition of affairs in Mexico. 

Enclosing the debate in the French Corps Legislatif, on Mexi- 
can affairs, on the 27th of February, 1866. 

Debate taken from the Moniteur Universel 

Acknowledging receipt of the same 



Enclosing an extract from a letter from Paris in regard to the 

sending of re-enforcements to Mexico. 
Acknowledging the receipt of the same 



Enclosing several documents relating to the present condition 

of things in Mexico. 
Letter from the city of Mexico giving an impartial account of 

late events in that city. 

Secret treaty between Maximilian and the Iturbide family 

Acknowledging the receipt of No. 5 



Enclosing a letter from Vera Cruz in regard to the burdens 

imposed by French intervention on merchants. 
Acknowledging the receipt of the same 



Enclosing 500 copies of a Spanish edition of papers sent to 
Congress with the President's message of April 21, 1866, in 
regard to the evacuation of Mexico by the French. 

Mr. Romero's circular to Mexican officials, sending to them 
the above-mentioned papers. 

Communicating extracts from a pamphlet entitled the "For- 
eign Question," published at El Paso del Norte, on the 31st 
of December, 1865. 

Short and correct account of political occurrences in Mexico 
during the months of October, November, and December, 
1865. 

Acknowledging the receipt of the above.... 



Relating to the barbarities reported to be committed by the 
French in the States of Coahuila and Chihuahua. 

Communication of Governor Viezea, of Coahuila, reporting 
that the French have burnt the towns of Matamoras and 
La Soledad, and many houses in the town of Viezea. 

Two orders from Maximo Campos, under Gen. Brincourt's 
command, ordering the burning of eleven houses of persons 
who had left his ranks. 

General Mejia acknowledges the receipt of General Viezca's 
communication. 

Communication from Governor Terrazas, of Chihuahua, re- 
porting the burning of Atotonilco, and several estates, by 
300 French. 

General Mejia acknowledges the receipt of the above 

Acknowledging the receipt of the same 



Relating to a guarantee by the United States government of 
a Mexican loan. 

General Schenck asks Mr. Romero several questions in re- 
gard to the guarantee of Mexican bonds by the United 
States. 

Mr. Romero's answer to General Schenck 

Acknowledging the receipt of the same 



710 



INDEX. 



From whom and 
to whom. 



Subject. 



Mr. Romero to Mr. 

Seward. 

Enclosure 

Mr. Seward to Mr. 

Romero. 
Mr. Romero to Mr. 

Seward. 



Enclosure , 

Mr. Seward to Mr. 

Romero. 
Mr. Romero to Mr. 

Seward. 

Enclosure 



Mr. Seward to Mr. 

Romero. 
Mr. Romero to Mr. 

Seward. 



Enclosure 1. 



Enclosure 2. 



Enclosure 3. 
Enclosure 4. 



Enclosure 5 


Nov. 14 


Enclosure 6 


Dec. 28 


Enclosure 7 

Enclosure 8 


1866. 
Jan. 18 
Feb. 9 


Enclosure 9 


Jan. 14 


Enclosure 10 


Jan. 15 



Enclosure 11. 
Enclosure 12. 
Enclosure 13. 

Enclosure 14. 
Enclosure 15- 



1866. 
June 14 

May 31 
July 7 

June 19 



May 19 

July 7 

July 4 

June 18 

July 12 

July 8 



April 5 



1865. 
Aug. 14 

Sept. 28 



Communicating information relating to the intentions and 

plans of the French government in regard to Mexico. 
Letter from Bordeaux, France, containing that information. . 
Acknowledging the receipt of the same 



Feb. 16 
Mar. 9 



1865. 
Aug. 14 

Sept. 28 



Transmitting a proclamation of Maximilian to the Austrian 
and Belgian troops in his service informing them that they 
would hereafter be paid by the French chest. 

Proclamation of Maximilian in German 

Acknowledging the receipt of the same 



Transmitting a copy of Le Temps, of Paris, containing some 
information in regard to the sending of French re-enforce- 
ments to Mexico. 

Article from No. 1870 of Le Temps, inserting another from 
Le Phare de la Loire, of June 16, in regard to the same 
subject. 

Acknowledging the receipt of the same 



Communicating the documents on Mexican affairs transmitted 
by the French government to the Corps Legislatif on the 
10th of June, 1866, and the debate of the 13th on the same 
subject. 

Letter from Mr. Seward to Mr. Montholon replying at length 
to M. Drouyn de Lhuys's letter of January 9, reciting 
again the position of the United States, and stating that 
this nation recognizes and must continue to recognize in 
Mexico only the ancient republic, and it can in no case con- 
sent to involve itself, either directly or indirectly, in rela- 
tions with, or recognition of, the institution of Maximilian 
in Mexico. 

Mr. Drouyn de Lhuys to Mr. Montholon : Reviews the pre- 
vious letter of Mr. Seward in reply to his despatch of Jan- 
uary 9 ; the conduct of France in Mexico. The Emperor 
has decided to evacuate Mexico in three detachments : in 
November, 1866; March, 1867; and November, 1867. 

Mr. de Lhuys to Mr. Dano : Approves his plan for settlement 
of French claims in Mexico. 

Mr. Dano to Mr. de Lhuys : Transmits an agreement with 
Maximilian respecting the settlement of French claims in 
Mexico ; forty millions of francs the amount in bulk ; modi- 
fication of article twelve of convention of Miramar of 
April 10. 

Mr. de Lhuys to Mr. Danq : His plan of settlement approved, 
with some modifications as to terms of its payment. 

Mr. Dano to Mr. da Lhuys : He has obtained consent of Max- 
imilian to the proposed modification as to terms of payment. 



Mr. Dano to Mr. de Lhuys: Same subject as the above 

Mr. Dano to Mr. de Lhuys : Settlement of French claims in 
Mexico. 

Mr. de Lhuys to Mr. Dano : The objects of France in going to 
Mexico ; its present relations to Maximilian ; the Emperor 
of France determines to withdraw from Mexico ; his 
reasons, &c. 

Mr. de Lhuys to Mr. Dano : Explains more fully the causes 
of the expedition and its withdrawal ; the payment of their 
claims — agreement is sanctioned; failure of Maximilian to 
fulfil his contract with France ; France cannot longer pay 
his expenses ; hopes Maximilian will sustain himself unaid- 
ed by France. 

Mr. de Lhuys to Mr. Dano : The evacuation of Mexico — in- 
structions relating to same ; the debt to France to be paid 
by retention of the custom-houses in hands of the French. 

Mr. Dano to minister of foreign affairs of Mexico: Informs 
him of the intention of Napoleon to withdraw French troops 
from Mexico, to be completed in eighteen months. 

Comments of the Estafette respecting the convention of 27th 
September, and the financial condition of the country; the 
Mexican loans reviewed; meeting of claimants suggested 
to consider these matters. 

Mr. de Lhuys to Mr. Dano : Claims of France against Mexico ; 
protection of French subjects ; he is to insist upon his ar- 
rangements on these points. 

Mr. Dano to Mr. de Lhuys : Receipt of his despatch of 14th 
August ; has signed a convention respecting French claims 
which will be satisfactory ; encloses copy of the terms of 
the settlement. 



INDEX. 



711 



From whom and 
to whom. 



Subject. 



Enclosure 16. 
Enelorure 17. 



1S65. 
Nov. 14 



Enclosure 18- 
Enclosure 19. 



1866. 
Jan. 18 
Feb. 9 



Enclosure 20 June 14 



Mr. Seward to Mr. 

Romero. 
Mr. Romero to Mr. 

Seward. 



Enclosure 1. 



Enclosure 2. 



July 16 
July 10 

May 27 



April 26 



Enclosure3 1 Mar. 13 



Enclosure 4. 
Enclosure 5. 



Mr. Seward to Mr. 

Romero. 
Mr. Romero to Mr. 

Seward. 

Enclosure 1 



Mr. Seward to Mr. 

Romero. 
Mr. Romero to Mr. 

Seward. 

Enclosure 



Enclosure 2. 



Mr. Seward to Mr. 

Romero. 
Mr. Romero to Mr. 

Seward. 



Enclosure 1 ; July 



Mr. de.Lhuys to Mr. Dano : Instructions as to the amount of 
claims of France and the mode of their payment by Mexico. 

Mr. Dano to Mr. de Lhuys : Has succeeded in modifying 
terms for settlement of French claims. 



April 23 
April 22 

July 23 
July 21 

June 15 

July 31 
July 21 

June 29 

July 5 

July 35 
July 24 



Same to same : Same subject as the above 

Mr. Dano to Mr. de Lhuys : Payment of French claims or- 
dered ; ratification of convention of 27th September insist- 
ed upon by Mexico. 

Interesting and warm debate in the legislative body of 
France, on the withdrawal of French expedition from 
Mexico, during session of Wednesday, June 13, 1866. 

Receipt of his communication of the 8th, and thanks for trans- 
mission of documents therein referred to. 

Transmits sundry intercepted letters forwarded to him by 
General Escobedo, showing that the French soldiers in 
Mexico are wearied of the unjust -war waged there by them. 

French intervention in Mexico, as seen by their own parti- 
sans — General Escobedo to Mr. Romero : The invading 
army entirely demoralized — its robberies; good condition 
of his own army ; the cause of Maximilian is losing ground 
generally throughout the republic. 

Mr. Gomez to Mr. Romero : Privations of the liberal army ; 
dissatisfaction of the French troops ; their excesses in burn- 
ing down houses and sacking towns ; the troubles of Maxi- 
milian ; Juarez is unanimously sustained in the republic ; 
want of arms for the liberal troops ; they are much needed, 
and he asks to be supplied with them. 

Sad picture of the result of the French intervention in Mex- 
ico, as given by Mr. Malglaive, a French officer, to a 
friend. Same from Mr. G. Colne, a French officer, to Mr. 
Bernard ; and also from Mr. Duley to his mother, dated 
Monterey, March 25, 1866; they all deplore the condition 
of affairs in Mexico, and condemn the conduct of their 
Emperor, Napoleon. 

Mr. Tisserot, intendant of Mexico, to General Douay : Con- 
demns the result of the expedition without measure. 

Mr. L. de Noue, employed in the cabinet of Marshal Baz- 
aine, to Commander Seigland, aide-de-camp to General 
Douay : The wonderful stories sent to France touching the 
success of the expedition ; it is all fudge. 

Receipt of his note of the 10th instant, and its enclosures 
above referred to. 

Communicating letter of General Garcia, second in command 
of eastern division, respecting the evacuation of Mexico by 
the French. 

General Garcia to Mr. Romero : Complains that the French 
do not carry out their agreement of non-intervention as 
promised to the United States. 

Acknowledges receipt of his note of the 21st July 



Enclosure 2. 
Enclosure 3. 
Enclosure 4. 



Mr. Seward to Mr. 

Romero. 
Mr. Romero to Mr. 

Seward. 



June 15 
June 20 
June 30 

July 30 

July 31 



63 

75 
76 

76 



Transmits extracts of two letters — reported arrangements be- 
tween Napoleon and Maximilian ; will send copy of con- 
vention when received. 

Substance of negotiations between Dano and Maximilian : 
20,000 men to remain in Mexico four years and be paid by 
France ; revenues to be collected by France; Vera Cruz 
and Mexico railroad to be mortgaged to France ; the loss of 
Matamoras cause of mutual recrimination ; General Zara- 
goza's pension is revoked. 

Extract of letter from Pueblo : Convention between Dano 
and Maximilian ; 20,000 men to remain in Mexico and join 
Mexican army for four vears ; France not acting in good 
faith. 

Receipt of Mr. Romero's note of 21st July, enclosing above 
extracts bearing on intervention of France in Mexico. 

Communicating letters and documents relating to the organi- 
zation of mixed corps of FrencJ and Mexicans to sustain 
Maximilian after the evacuation by France. 

Letter from city of Mexico : Organization of a Mexican army 
composed of French and Mexicans. 

Circular from prefect of Durango : Same subject 

Circular from prefect of Queretaro : Same subject 

List of officers of the new corps, twenty-six of whom are 
Frenchmen and only two Mexicans among them. 

Receipt of his note of the 24th July ; thanks for the informa- 
tion contained. 

Transmits extract from the Temps, showing that French 
troops are to be embarked for Vera Cruz. 



78 



80 
80 

81 
81 

82 

83 
83 

84 



Si 

85 
85 

86 

86 
87 
88 

89 

89 



712 



INDEX. 



From whom and 
to whom. 



Subject. 



Enclosure 

Mr. Seward to Mr. 

Romero. 
Mr. Romero to Mr. 

Seward. 



Enclosure 



1866. 
July 19 

Aug. 5 

Aug. 9 

July 20 



Mr. Seward to Mr. 

Romero. 
Mr. Romero to Mr. 

Seward. 


Aug. 

Aug. 


16 
15 


Enclosure 
Enclosure 


1 


Aug. 
Aug. 


15 
13 


Enclosure 


3 


July 


21 


Enclosure 


4 


Aug. 


13 


Enclosure 


5 


May 


6 


Enclosure 


6 


May 


26 


Enclosure 
Enclosure 


7 

8 


May 
June 


26 
20 


Enclosure 


9 


June 


29 


Enclosure 


10 


June 


6 


Enclosure 


11 


June 


6 


Enclosure 12 


June 


6 


Enclosure 


13 


July 


6 


Enclosure 


14 


July 


20 


Enclosure 


15 


July 


20 


Enclosure 


16 


July 


20 


Mr. Seward to Mr. 
Romero. 

President Juarez to 
Mr. Romero. 


Aug. 23 

1865. 
Dec. 28 



Sir George Sinclair 
to President Ju- 
arez. 



Mr. Romero to Mr. 
Seward. 



Enclosure 



1866. 
Aug. 26 



Detachment of Foreign Legion to embark at St. Nazaire for 
Mexico. 

Acknowledging receipt of his note of 31st July, and extract 
referred to therein. 

Transmits an extract from the New York World, written in 
New York, though purporting to come from Mexico : Rela- 
tions of Napoleon to Maximilian ; visit of Father Fischer 
to the Pope, and its object. 

Article in the New York World of August 8, 1866 : Objects 
of Carlotta's visit to Europe ; Napoleon's Mexican policy ; 
Mexican wealth and population; concentration of the 
French army ; will the troops be removed ; Maximilian de- 
mands an explanation ; affairs at Tampico ; Matamoras and 
its capture ; Bazaine en route to recapture it ; the imperial 
cabinet ; settlement of the church embroglio ; affairs at the 
capital; doings of Maximilian. 

Receipt of his note of the 9th instant, with extract from the 
New York World ; thanks. 

Transmitting extracts from Mexican and New York papers 
showing condition of affairs in Mexico up to end of July, 
1866. 

Index of fifteen enclosures referred to in above letter 

Extract from the Courrier des Etats Urns', of August 13, 1866, 
in New York, quoting scraps from a semi-monthly review 
of the Estafette relative to the usurper's new cabinet. 

Letter from the correspondent of the Messager Franco-Amer- 
icain in Vera Crnz. 

Extract from the Courrier des Etats Unis, of an article from 
the Ere Nouvelle on the suppression of that paper by the 
usurper. 

Decree of usurper putting obstacles in the way of publishing 
newspapers. 

Decree of the usurper laying high taxes on real es'ates in 
cities. 

Decree of same in regard to taxes on landed estates 

Extract from the Boletin de Noticias, of Guadalajara, on the 
assassination of the Montenegro young men, and the want 
of personal security in any part of the country under the 
usurper. 

Circular of Don Jose G. Montenegro and wife, publishing the 
assassination of their son, Diego, for the crime of having a 
name respected by Mexican patriots. 

Orders of the usurper for a draft in the cities of Mexico, Pue- 
bla, and Queretaro. 

Extract from Diario del Imperio, in regard to the pension to 
the widow of Genei al Zaragoza. 

Extract from the Pajaro Verde, with an article from the Esta- 
fette commenting on the pension. 

Extract from the Diario del Imperio, with the names of those 
arrested in Mexico and sent to Yucatan without trial. 

Letter from Rafael J. Garcia, editor of the Idea Liberal, in | 
Puebla, giving reliable information of the present state of 
affairs in Mexico. 

Letter from the city of Mexico containing information on the 
condition of things. 

Maximilian's decrees appointing the French generals, Osmont 
and Friant, to his cabinet. 

Receipt of his note of 15th instant, with extracts from Mexi- 
can and New York papers up to July, 1866; thanks. 

Gives an account of French forces in State of Chihuahua, 
their movements; their forces becoming demoralized; no 
chance of the success of the empire in Mexico ; the Presi- 
dent feels confident of the triumph of national independ- 
ence ; he will in no way recognize the intervention, or do 
anything contrary to the honor and dignity of the republic ; 
the country will soon be free of all its oppressors. 

London, April 29, 1865 : Condemns in the strongest term3 the 
conduct of Napoleon's intervention in Mexico; hopes the 
United States will drive him thence ; and extols the patriot- 
ism and perseverance of Juarez in the defence of the re- 
public. , 

Transmits official paper of the Mexican republic, No. 21, con- 
taining account of events at Parral, in the State of Chihua- 
hua, and outrages committed by the French troops at 
Parral. 

Conduct of French troops in March and April, 1865, at Par- 
ral ; threats of Commander Didier to burn the town of Al- 
lende ; forced loans levied by the French. 



INDEX. 



713 



From whom and 
to whom. 



Mr. Hunter to Mr. 

Romero. 
Mr. Romero to Mr. 

Seward. 



Enclosure 1. 
Enclosure 2. 

Enclosure 3. 

Enclosure 4. 

Enclosure 5. 

Enclosure 6. 

Enclosure 7. 

Enclosures. 

Enclosure 9. 



Enclosure 1. 



Enclosures. 
Enclosure 3. 



Mr. Hunter to Mr. 

Romero. 
Mr. F. "W. Seward 

to Mr. Romero. 

Mr. Romero to Mr. 
F. W. Seward. 

Mr. F. W. Seward 
to Mr. Romero. 

Mr. Romero to Mr. 
F. "W. Seward. 

Mr. Romero to Mr. 
F. W. Seward. 



1866. 
Aug. 30 

Aug. 27 



Aug. 27 
July 30 

July 30 

July 30 

July 30 

Aug. 1 

Aug. 7 

Aug. 1 

Aug. 1 

Aug. 30 
Sept. 20 

Sept. 20 



Subject. 



Mr. Seward to Mr. 
Romero. 

Mr. Romero to Mr. 
Seward. 

Enclosure 1 

Enclosures 

Enclosure 3 

Enclosure 4 

Enclosure 5 

Enclosure 6 

Enclosure 7 

Enclosure8 



Sept, 


21 


Sept. 


21 


Sept, 


23 


Sept. 


2 



Sept. 7 
Sept. 20 



Oct. 


2 


Sept. 


24 


May 


31 


June 


17 


June 


17 


June 
June 


17 
17 


July 


6 


July 


24 


July 


8 



Acknowledges receipt of his note of the 26th instant, with 

enclosure above referred to. 
Transmits sundry documents received by him from the city 
of Mexico : Condition of affairs there ; Maximilian's govern- 
ment is a French military government. 

An index of papers transmitted this day 

Circular from the private cabinet of the usurper, Maximilian, 

to the French employes, explaining its policy. 
Decree of the usurper declaring the State of Michoacan to be 

in a state of siege. 
Decree of the usurper declaring the States of Puebla, Tlax- 

cala, and port of Vera Cruz to be in a state of siege. 
Decree of the usurper placing the police force under the com- 
mand of a French officer. 
Decree of Don J. Calderon declaring Jalapa to be in a state 

of siege. 
An article from the Estafette, the organ of the French army 

in Mexico, on the situation in Jalapa. 
A private letter in the Estafette on the situation in the valley 

of Toluca. 
An article from the Pajaro Verde, an intervention journal in 
Mexico, stating that the 81st regiment of the line of the 
French army will remain in Mexico at the service of the 
usurper. 
Receipt of his note of the 27th instant, with enclosures above 

enumerated. 
Desires information as to the report contained in a St, Louis 
paper as to the shooting of a son of the Marquis de Mon- 
tholon in Durango. 
Receipt of his note of date. Has no information relative to 
the matter referred to ; will write to his government relative 
thereto. 
Receipt of his note of 20th, and thanks him for the offer to 

write to his government respecting the above. 
Receipt of his note of date. Will write to his government, 
as desired, respecting Mr. Montholon's son ; will do so by 
to-morrow's mail. 
Has received reliable information, by letter from Vera Cruz, 
that the French steamer Panama, from St, Nazaire, brought 
130 recruits to the French army now invading Mexico. 
Acknowledged by department October 2, 1866. 
Encloses aeconnts of the incidents, relating to Mexico, which 
occurred during the trip of the President of the United 
States to Chicago, published in the Voz de America, of New 
York. 
Account of the banquet at New York, August 29 : Mr. Hoff- 
man's toast; speeches by Mr. Romero in New York and 
Auburn ; Mr. Romero is introduced to the people by Mr. 
Seward; the latter's remarks touching intervention in 
Mexico. 
Account of the President's trip from Chicago to St. Louis ; 

Mr. Seward and the Monroe doctrine. 
Solution of the Mexican question: Article from the Voz de 
America, of September 20, 1866; General Grant's toast, 
'•For the success of the noble cause of Mexico." 
Receipt of his note of 23d September, with the articles pub- 
lished in the Voz de America relative to Mexico and the 
President's trip. 
Transmits correspondence between several Mexican generals 
and French officers relative to the exchange of prisoners of 
war and their treatment by the two belligerents. 
General Mejia to General Viezca : Exchange of prisoners and 
their treatment ; President Juarez will not exchange pris- 
oners unless Mexicans are better treated. 
General Viezca to the secretary of war : Exchange of prison- 
ers of war; desires instructions. 
General Viezca to General Douay : Exchange of prisoners of 
war; his letter sent to the constitutional government. 

General Douay to General Viezca : Same subject 

List of prisouers taken at Oajaca by the French and now con- 
fined at Puebla. 
General Mejia, secretary of war, to General Viezca. governor 
of Coahuila : The President of the republic consents to the 
exchange of prisoners ; terms stated. 
Receipt of order of secretary of war for exchange of prison- 
ers; encloses correspondence on the subject with General 
Douay. 
General Viezca to General Douay : Notifying of the terms 
of his government for exchange of prisoners of war. 



117 
.. 118 
118 



714 



INDEX. 



From whom and 
to whom. 



Enclosure 9 

Enclosure 10 , 

Enclosure 11 

Enclosure 12 

Mr. Seward to Mr. 

Romero. 
Mr. Romero to Mr. 

Seward. 



Enclosure 1. 
Enclosure 2. 
Enclosure 3. 



Date. 



Enclosure 4. 

Enclosure 5. 

Enclosure 6. 
Enclosure?. 
Enclosure 8. 



Enclosure 9.. 
Enclosure 10. 

Enclosure 11 . 
Enclosure 12. 

Enclosure 13- 

Enclosurel4. 

Enclosure 15. 
Enclosure 16. 



1866. 
July 12 

Aug. 21 

Aug. 18 
Aug. 18 



Sept. 30 

July 30 
Sept. 14 



Subject. 



Sept. 15 

Sept, — 

Sept. 13 
Sept. 16 



Mr. Seward to Mr. 
Romero. 



Mr. Romero to Mr. 
Seward. 



Sept. 20 
Sept. 18 

Sept. 23 
Sept. 23 



1865. 
April 14 



1866. 
Aug. 16 



Aug. 25 

Sept. 29 
Oct. 9 
Oct. 5 



General Douay to General Viezca : Cannot accept nor even 
discuss the terms proposed ; will refer same to Marshal 
Bazaine for his consideration. 

General Mejia, secretary of war, to General Viezca : The 
terms proposed by the President are those observed by all 
civilized nations. 

Surrender of Tlacotalpam by Colonel Camacho to Colonel 
Teran, and asks for exchange of some prisoners. 

Colonel Teran consents to the exchange asked by Colonel 
Camacho, and occupies Tlacotalpam. 

Acknowledging receipt of his note of 24th July, with its sev- 
eral enclosures, with his thanks. 

Transmits a translation of a decree published in the Moniteur 
of Paris, on 13th September, containing the convention of 
July 30, 1866; between Napoleon and Maximilian ; its terms 
cannot be binding upon the Mexican republic, as they are 
unjust. 

Convention between Napoleon and Maximilian providing 
for collection of duties at Mexican custom-houses and pay- 
ment of all sums advanced by France. 

Article from La Liberty of Paris, by Mr. Duvernois, respect- 
ing the liquidation of the expenses of the French interven- 
tion in Mexico ; severe criticism on the whole subject. 

Article by Mr. Clement Duvernois, of La Liberty, respecting 
the appointments of Generals Osmont and Friant to the 
cabinet of Maximilian, which is not approved by Napoleon ; 
General Castelnau's mission relates to a new plan of gov- 
ernment in Mexico ; Frenchmen to be employed in all the 
departments ; his readers can judge for themselves. 

Review of the convention between Napoleon and Maximilian 
by the Opinion Nationale; condemns the convention and 
the expedition ; anticipated difficulties with the United 
States ; advocates the withdrawal of France from Mexico — 
troops, expedition, and flag ! 

Article from La Patrie, (Paris ;) the mission of General Cas- 
telnau to Mexico looks to a new programme in the gov- 
ernment of Maximilian ; all departments to be under French 
control. 

Article from the London Times; the mission of Castelnauto 
Mexico ; an entire change to be effected in the government 
of Maximilian ; the intervention will prove a failure. 

Article from La Libert§, by Mr. Duvernois ; comments upon 
the braggadocio of the Patrie, and condemns the French 
intervention in Mexico. 

An article from Mr. Duvernois relative to the convention of 
July 26 ; says the expedition to Mexico was unnecessary ; 
the contract needless. 

An article from Mr. Duvernois on the situation in Mexico ; 
condemns the expedition, &c. 

The Mexican loan ; October coupons ; comments by Mr. 
Duvernois ; proceedings of the Mexican finance committee 
in Paris. 

Article from the Patrie ; responsibility of France to the hold- 
ers of Mexican stock. 

Article from the London Daily News ; the moral guarantee 
of the French government to the Mexican bondholders ; 
financial condition. 

Agreement of Jose Hidalgo and Conde Ch. de Germiny re- 
specting the loan contracted in Europe for Maximilian's 
government ; capital 250 millions of francs. 

Article from the London News ; an English official statement 
of financial condition of Maximilian's so-called empire ; 
the empress Carlotta's visit to Europe ; statements of reve- 
nue, expenditure, and public debt of Maximilian's govern- 
ment ; deficit twenty millions of dollars. 

Correspondence of the London Times ; the Mexican loans, 
and how the French funds have been employed ; produce 
of loans 246, 000, 000 francs, of which Mexico received but 
34,000,000 ; how this was managed. 

Article from the Franco- Americain of New York'; review of 
the financial condition of Mexico and Maximilian's rule in 
that country ; how will her foreign debts be paid. 

Receipt of Mr. Romero's note of the 30th September, with 
convention of July 30 between Napoleon and Maximilian, 
and other enclosures acknowledged. 

Transmits letter from General Regules, commander of the 
liberal army of the centre ; his movements, and conduct 
of the French in the State of Michoacan. 



INDEX. 



715 



From whom and 
to whom. 




Subject. 



Mr. Seward to Mr. 

Romero. 
Mr. Komero to Mr. 

Seward. 



Enclosure .. 
Enclosure 1. 



Enclosure 2. 
Enclosure3. 
Enclosure 4. 

Enclosure 5. 
Enclosure 6. 

Enclostire7. 
Enclosure 8. 

Enclosure 9. 



Oct. 15 
Oct. 12 



Mr. Seward to Mr. 

Romero. 
Mr. Romero to Mr. 

Hunter. 



Enclosure 1 

Enclosure 2 
Enclosure 3 
Enclosure 4 

Enclosure 5 
Enclosure 6 



June 18 

June 29 

Aug. 2 

Sept. 6 

Sept, 10 

Sept. 10 

Sept. 16 

Sept, 27 

Sept. 30 

Nov. 15 

Nov. 5 

Oct. 3 

Oct. 3 

Oct. 10 

Oct. 11 

Oct. 12 

Oct. 12 



Letter from General Regules to Mr. Romero, giving an ac- 
count of his military operations ; the French not comply- 
ing with their declared intentions on coming to Mexico. 

Mr. Romero's answer to General Regules ; the engagements 
of France are made with the United States, not with Mex- 
ico ; tells him to continue, the contest to the extent of his 
abilities ; will communicate his letter to the government of 
the United States. 

Acknowledges receipt of his note of the 5th instant relative 
to the operations of General Regules and affairs in Micho- 
acan. t 

Transmits various intercepted documents from the agents ot 
Maximilian and Mr. Felix Eloin, dated Brussels, September 
17,1866, showing the feelings existing between Napoleon 
and Maximilian ; disapproval of the nomination of Generals 
Osmont and Friant as ministers by Maximilian ; Mr. Ro- 
mero's comments upon the said documents. 

Letter from Mr. Eloin to Maximilian, giving him full details 
of condition of affairs at that date ; mission of General Cas- 
telnau to Mexico; Napoleon's views and intentions re- 
specting Mexico and the withdrawal of his expedition ; dis- 
content in Austria with its Emperor, and popularity of 
Maximilian spreading through that empire ; state of Napo- 
leon's health. 

Telegram from Eloin to Maximilian, to be forwarded from 
New York, containing synopsis of the letter above. 

Mr. Eloin to Mr. Devincenties, director of civil affairs in the 
private office of the usurper, respecting private interests. 

Letter from N. Rosas, entitled consular agent of the empire 
of Mexico in New York, requesting him to send the above 
letters to their address. 

Acknowledging the receipt of the preceding communication. 

Communicating documents lately received from Mexico in 
regard to the enlistment of French soldiers under the flag 
of Maximilian, the appointment of Frenchmen as officials 
of Maximilian, and the instructions given to French officers 
to act as officers of Maximilian's establishment. 

Index of the following documents : 

Circular No. 190 of Maximilian's so-called minister of finance 
appointing various Frenchmen to direct the assessment of 
houses and lands for a direct tax. 

Order of the day of the French General Neigre incorporating 
the Belgian Legion with the 9th battalion of the so-called 
Mexican chasseurs. 

Circular of the French General Friant authorizing the sub- 
intendent of the French army to act as sub-intendent for 
the so-called empire. 

Official list from Maximilian's so-called war office of the mili- 
tary commissions issued from the 25th of August to the 5th 
of September, showing that only French officers have been 
appointed to command the Mexican chasseurs. 

Correspondence from the city of Mexico with general news 
of the situation. 

Correspondence from Vera Cruz mentioning the enlistment 
of the greater portion of the 81st French regiment of the 
line into the corps of Mexican chasseurs. 

Maximilian's speech at the anniversary of Mexican independ- 
ence declaring he will not leave tis post. 

Maximilian's decree ordering the confiscation of the property 
of patriots who are fighting for the independence of their 
country. 

Letter from Vera Cruz, mentioning the return to Orizaba of 
the 81st French regiment of the line, that had gone to Vera 
Cruz to embark for France on the steamer Tampico. 

Acknowledging the receipt of the preceding communication. 



Enclosing English translations of several articles from the 
French press on Mexican affairs, containing important in- 
formation and showing the change of public opinion in 
France in regard to that question. 

Article from the Paris La Liberte entitled " The Evacuation 
of Mexico." 

Article from the same paper entitled "The Mexican Empire 

Article from the Paris Elandad entitled " The Mexican Debt" 

Article from the Paris Opinion Nationale entitled " The End 
of the Mexican Business. 

Article from the Paris Liberte entitled ".French Interests". . . 

Article from the same paper entitled ' ' The Rights of Juarez" 



155 
157 



157 

4 158 



159 



160 
162 
162 

163 
163 



164 
164 



165 
166 
166 

167 
168 

168 
169 

169 

170 
170 



171 
171 
173 

174 
175 



716 



INDEX. 



From whom and 
to whom. 



Date. 



Subject. 



Enclosure 7. 



Enclosure 8 

Mr. Seward to Mr. 

Romero. 
Mr. Romero to Mr. 

Seward. 
Enclosure 



Mr. Seward to Mr. 

Romero. 
Mr. Romero to Mr. 

F. W. Seward. 

Enclosure 

Mr. Seward to Mr. 

Romero. 
Mr. Romero to Mr. 

Seward. 
Enclosure 



Mr. Seward to Mr. 

Romero. 
Mr. Romero to Mr. 

Seward. 



Mr. Seward to Mr. 

Romero. 
Mr. Romero to Mr. 

Seward. 



Enclosure 1. 
Enclosures. 



Mr. Seward to Mr, 

Romero. 
Mr. Romero to Mr. 

Seward. 
Enclosure 1 

Enclosure 2 

Enclosure 3 

Enclosure 4 

Enclosure 5 

Enclosure 6 

Enclosure 7 



Mr. Seward to Mr. 
Romero. 

Mr. Romero to Mr. 
Seward. 

Enclosure 1 

Enclosures 

Enclosure 3 



Enclosure 4 



Mr. Seward to Mr. 
Romero. 



Mr. Romero to Mr. 
Seward. 



1866. 

Oct. 12 

Oct. 13 

Nov. 13 

Nov. 9 

Oct. 18 

Nov. 13 

Nov. 16 

Oct. 20 

Nov. 20 

Nov. 20 

Nov. 1 

Nov. 29 

Nov. 22 

Nov. 29 

Dec. 14 

Dec. 1 

Dec. 1 

Dec. 17 

Dec. 21 

Nov. 24 



Nov. 25 
Nov. 30 
Nov. 30 
Nov. 28 

Nov. 28 



Dec. 1 



1867. 
Jan. 1 



1866. 
Dec. 2 



Nov. 3 
Dec. 1 



Dec. 2 



1867. 
Jan. 



1866. 
Dec. 27 



Article from the Paris paper Le Siecle entitled ' ' Let us Finish 
the Mexican Business." 

Article from the Paris paper L'Opinion Nationale 

Acknowledging the receipt of the above 

Enclosing the following communication 



Letter from Don Joaquin Velasquez de Leon, called minister 
of Maximilian in Rome, giving to his master a detailed ac- 
count of the insanity of Princess Charlotte. 

Acknowledging receipt of the preceding communication 

Enclosing letter from minister of foreign affairs, contradict- 
ing rumor of the Marquis de Montholon's son's death. 

Mr. Lerdo to Mr. Romero : Same subject 

Acknowledges receipt of the above , 



Encloses letter from Vera Cruz ; causes which have hindered 
the embarcation of Maximilian. 

Letter from Vera Cruz ; causes of Maximilian's delay in Mex- 
ico ; the French wish him to abdicate. 

Acknowledges receipt of the foregoing 



Transmits copy of letter from M. de Castillo, his minister of 
foreign relations, to Maximilian, from Turin, giving views 
of public opinion in Europe in regard to his remaining in 
Mexico ; the United States to be confined to certain limits. 

Acknowledges his letter of the 22d instant 



Transmits letter from Vera Cruz respecting arrival of Sus- 
quehanna at that port ; also proclamation of prefect of Vera 
Cruz of December 1, 1866. 

Arrival of Susquehanna at Vera Cruz ; delay in delivery of 
letter to the United States consul from that ship. 

Proclamation of prefect ; he announces determination of 
Maximilian to remain in Mexico. 

Receipt of the foregoing letter acknowledged 



Enclosing sundry articles from the papers of Paris discussing 
the responsibility of results of the intervention in Mexico. 

Article from La France, by J. Cohen, entitled "Mexican 
Empire ;" responsibility of the failure of the French expedi- 
tion in Mexico. 

La LibertS on the responsibility ; same subject, by H. Pessard. 

From L'Avenir Nationale, by A. Payrat 

From Le Temps, same subject 

From the Journal des Debats : The Mexican question, and 
responsibility of failure of the expedition. 

From La LibertS : Article entitled " A Lesson ;" responsi- 
bility of failure of the expedition to Mexico, by Clement 
Duvernois. 

From La Liberte : Public opinion in France respecting the 
French expedition to Mexico, by Clement Duvernois. 

Acknowledges receipt of his letter of 21st December, and ex- 
tracts from Paris papers relative to French expedition and 
intervention in Mexico. 

Enclosing an article from the Diario dellmperio, and a mani- 
festo from Maximilian showing his determination to remain 
in Mexico ; comments upon these documents. 

From Diario del Imperio : Official statement as to Maximil- 
ian's abdication ; council of ministers convoked at Orizaba. 

Manifesto of Maximilian from Orizaba ; he will remain in 
Mexico ; national congress to be convened to decide the 
question of an empire or republic in Mexico.] 

From New York Daily Herald : Maximilian's hiding place at 
Orizaba ; the departure ; Bazaine's designs ; Maximilian 
wanting to bolt ; Miramon a fugitive ; Marquez a failure ; 
Maximilian on the President's message ; French re-enforce- 
ments arrive at Vera Cruz ; special envoys ; seizure of the 
custom-house ; Jake Thompson in Mexico. 

Article from the E^tafette : Bazaine, Dano, and Castelnau 
define their positions in Mexico. 

Acknowledging receipt of his letter of 22d December and its 
enclosures. 

Encloses letter from Mr. Lerdo approving his instructions to 
General Regules touching future hostilities against the 
French army. 



INDEX. 



717 



From -whom and 
to whom. 



Enclosure 



Mr. Seward to Mr. 
Romero. 



Mr. Romero to Mr. 
Seward. 

Enclosure 1 

Enclosure 2 

Enclosure 3 

Enclosure 4 

Mr. Seward to Mr. 
Romero. 

Mr. Romero to Mr. 
Seward. 



Date. 



Enclosure 1. 



Enclosure 2. 
Enclosure 3. 



Enclosure 4 



Enclosure 5 

Enclosure 6 
Enclosure 7 



Mr. Seward to Mr. 

Romero. 
Mr. Romero to Mr. 

Seward. 



Enclosure 1 . 
Enclosure 2. 
Enclosure 3. 



Enclosure 4 

Mr. Romero to Mr. 
Seward. 



Enclosure 1 . 
Enclosures. 



1866. 
Nov. 16 

1867. 
Jan. 2 

1866. 
April 8 

Jan. 29 
Mar. 6 

Jan. 1 
Mar. 6 
July 19 

April 25 



1865. 
Mar. 29 

1866. 
Mar. 9 



Subject. 



Enclosure 3 . 

Enclosure 4. 

Enclosures. 
Enclosure 6. 

Enclosure 7. 
Enclosure 8. 



Mar. 9 



Mar. 9 

Mar. 29 



July 6 

April 26 

Mar. 30 

Mar. 26 

Mar. 26 

Mar. 27 

Aug. 1 



Aug. 1 
Feb. 22 



April 25 



May 22 



May 


27 


May 


30 


May 


31 


June 


5 



Mr. Lerdo to Mr. Romero : Approves his instructions to 
General Regules respecting military operations. 

Receipt of his letter of 27th December and enclosure 

No. 2. — Military operations of the Northern Division. 

Transmits official report of victory of General Viezca to sec- 
retary of war at the battle of San Juan de Guadalupe, 
State of Durango. 

General Viezca to General Mejia : Report of victory gained 
at San Juan de Guadalupe. 

General Mejia to General Viezca : Thanks for the victories 
obtained over the enemy ; condemns the barbarous conduct 
of the French. 

General Viezca to General Mejia : Capture of Parras, Du- 
rango, by Colonel Herrara. 

General Mejia to General Viezca : Communicates the thanks 
of the President for the victory gained at Parras. 

Acknowledges receipt of his note of April 8, and correspond- 
ence of Generals Viezca and Mejia respecting military ope- 
rations in State of Durango. 

Transmits letter from Mr. Lerdo with report and documents 
relating to battle of Santa Isabel, obtained over the French 
and traitors March 1, 1866. 

Mr. Lerdo to Mr. Romero : Victory at Santa Isabel 



fc 



General Viezca to Secretary of "War : Same subject 

General Trevino to General Viezca : Reports the capture of 

the town of Parras. 
Report of Lieutenant Colonel Carillo of the killed, wounded, 
and missing of republican forces at Santa Isabel; also loss 
of the enemy, munitions, &c., captured. 
Report of Colonel Gomez ; killed and wounded among the 
cavalry of his division. 

Lieutenant Colonel Carillo's report of prisoners captured 

Secretary Mejia to General Viezca : Acknowledges receipt of 
his reports, &c, and thanks him in the name of the Presi- 
dent for the glorious victories obtained over the combined 
army of French and traitors. 
Acknowledges receipt of his note of 25th April and its several 

enclosures. 
Encloses letter of Mr. Lerdo communicating the captures of 
the cities of Chihuahua, by Governor Terrazos, and of Hi- 
dalgo del Parral by Colonel Vazquez ; invading forces 
driven from the State of Chihuahua. 
Mr. Lerdo to Mr. Romero : Victories gained at Chihuahua 

and Hidalgo del Parral. 
Governor Terrazos to General Mejia, secretary of war : Re- 
ports battle and capture of city of Chihuahua. 
Governor Terrazos to the same : Capture of El Parral by 
Colonel Vazquez. 

Capture of prisoners at Rosales reported 

Encloses eighteen documents and index thereto of military 
operations of the army of the north, ending with capture 
of Matamoras June 16. 

Index of documents enclosed this date 

Proclamation of General Garza, chief of the forces of the 
south and centre of Tamaulipas, to the troops which sus- 
tained the usurpation of Maximilian. 
Official report of General Albino Espinosa, quartermaster 
general of the army of the north, to General Escobedo, 
chief of said army, of the battle of Tanquecitos against 
Dupin April 24, 1866. 
Proclamation of General Pedro Martinez, chief of the third 
cavalry brigade of the army of the north, to the towns along 
the southern line of New Leon. 
Proclamation of General Escobedo, of the army of the north, 

on occasion of late events and victories. 
The constitutional alcalde of Rio Blanco communicates to 
General Escobedo the outrages committed by the French in 
that settlement during its occupation by them. 
The commander of the squadron of Rio Blanco makes similar 

communications to General Escobedo. 
General Escobedo orders General Trevino, in command of 
the first division of the cavalry of the army of the north, to 
make reprisals on the prisoners taken from the enemy. 



207 

207 

208 

208 
209 

209 
210 
210 

211 



211 

212 



215 



215 
216 



216 

216 

217 
217 

218 

218 
219 



219 
220 



220 



222 
223 

224 
224 



718 



INDEX. 



From whom and 
to whom. 



Enclosure 9 

Enclosure 10 

Enclosure 11 

Enclosure 12 

Enclosure 13 

Enclosure 14 

Enclosure 15 

Enclosure 16 

Enclosure 17 

Enclosure 18 

Enclosure 19 

Mr. Seward to Mr. 

Romero. 
Mr. Romero to Mr. 

Seward. 

Enclosure 1 

Enclosure 2 

Enclosure3 

Enclosure 4 

Enclosure 5 

Enclosure 6 

Enclosure? 

Enclosure8 

Enclosure 9 

Enclosure 10 

Enclosure 11 , 

Enclosure 12 , 

Enclosure 13 

Enclosure 14 

Enclosure 15 , 

Enclosure 16 

Enclosure 17 

Enclosure 18 

Enclosure 19 

Enclosure 20 

Enclosure 21 

Enclosure 22 

Enclosure 23 

Enclosure 24 

Enclosure 25 

Enclosure 26 

Mr. Seward to Mr. 
Romero. 



1866. 
June 8 



June 30 
June 16 
June 16 
Jane 19 
June 17 
June 17 
June 17 
June 23 
June 23 
June 23 
Aug. 8 
Nov. 27 



Nov. 27 
June 29 



June 25 



June 29 

Aug. 4 



Aug. 7 

Aug. 26 

Aug. 12 



Aug. 13 
Sept. 12 

Aug. 13 



Subject. 



Oct. 


Q 


Aug. 


12 


Oct. 


2 


Aug. 


13 


Aug. 


13 


Oct. 


2 


Aug. 


22 


Aug. 


8 


Aug. 


16 


Aug. 


5 


Aug. 


2S 


Aug. 


8 


Aug. 


8 


Aug. 


21 


Aug. 


8 



Dec. 8 



Proclamation of Lieutenant Colonel Darius Garza, of the 
army of the north, to the inhabitants of the second district 
of the State of New Leon, on account of depredations com- 
mitted by the French. 
Introduction to the official documents on the victory of La 

Mesa de Santa Gertrudis. 
Official report, of General Escobedo to the minister of war of 

the victory of La Mesa de Santa Gertrudis. 
Proclamation of General Escobedo congratulating the troops 

of his command on their participation in that victory. 
Report in detail from General Escobedo to the war depart- 
ment of the same victory. 
Statement of the number of killed, wounded, and prisoners 

in the battle of La Mesa de Santa Gertrudis. 
Statement of the armament and munitions taken from the 

enemy at the Mesa de Santa Gertrudis. 
An account of the chiefs, officers, and soldiers taken prisoners 
from the enemy at the battle of La Mesade Santa Gertrudis. 
Capitulation of the city of Matamoras, by which it was de- 
livered to the national government of Mexico. 
Proclamation of General Carvajal to the inhabitants of Ta- 

maulipas mentioning the occupation of Matamoras. 
Proclamation of General Garza to the inhabitants of Mata- 
moras. 
Acknowledging receipt of his note of the 1st with accounts of 

military operations of General Escobedo. 
Transmits sundry documents relating to the military opera- 
tions of the northern division of the army of the Mexican 
republic from June to September, 1866. 

Index of documents sent with the above letter 

Official report of General Escobedo to the minister of war in 
relation to the capitulation of Matamoras, made between 
General Carvajal and Tomas Mejia. 

Opinion of the quartermaster general of the army of the north 
on said capitulation. 

Text of the capitulation - , 

The minister of war to General Escobedo, informing him 
that the government disapproves of the capitulation agreed 
upon between General Carvajal and Don Tomas Mejia, and 
ordering General Carvajal to be tried by court-martial. 

The appointment of General Tapia as governor of the State 
of Tamaulipas. 

General Tapia to the minister of war, accepting the office 

An act drawn up in Matamoras rejecting General Carvajal as 
governor, and making Colonel Canales governor for the 
time being. 

Proclamation of Colonel Canales 

The minister of war informs General Tapia that the govern- 
ment disapproves of the events that occurred in Matamoras 
on the 12th of August. 

Colonel Canales to the minister of foreign relations, commu- 
nicating to him all that happened in Matamoras on the day 
of the 12th August. 

Reply of the minister of foreign relations to the preceding. . . 

Colonel Canales communicates the events of the 12th of Au- 
gust to the minister of war. 

The minister of war's reply to Colonel Canales's note 

Colonel Canales communicates the capitulation of Tampico 
to the minister of war. 

Text of the capitulation ■ 

The minister of war informs the governor of Tamaulipas 
that the capitulation is approved, with certain restrictions. 

Tampico correspondence, giving details of the political situa- 
tion of that port. 

Official report of General Arce on the occupation of the city 
of Nazas, in the State of Durango. 

Reply of the minister of war to the above despatch 

Official report of General Escobedo to the minister of war on 
the occupation of the cities of Monterey and Saltillo by the 
forces under his command. 

The minister of war's reply to the above despatch 

General Escobedo's proclamation 

Official report of General Viezca on the occupation of the city 
of Saltillo, the capital of the State of Coahuila. 

Reply of the minister of war 

Letter of General Viezca to President Juarez, with reference 
to the surrender of the traitors Quiroga and Campos. 

Acknowledges receipt of his communication of the 27th of 
November and reports from northern army of the republic. 



252 



INDEX 



719 



From whom and 
to whom. 



84 Mr. Romero to Mr. 
Seward. 



Enclosure 1 

Enclosure 2 

Enclosure 3 

Enclosure 4 

Enclosure5 

Mr. Seward to Mr. 

Romero. 
Mr. Romero to Mr. 

Seward. 



Enclosure 1. 
Enclosure 2. 



Enclosure 3. 



Enclosure 4. 



Enclosure 5 . 



Enclosure 6 



Mr. Seward to Mr. 
Romero. 



Mr. Romero to Mr. 
Seward. 



Mr. Seward to Mr. 

Romero. 
Mr. Romero to Mr. 

Seward. 

Euclosure 1 

Enclosure 2 

Enclosure 3 

Enclosure 4 

Enclosure5 

Enclosure 6 

Enclosure? 

Enclosure8 

Enclosures 

Enclosure 10 

Enclosure 11 



1866. 
April 8 



Dec. 30 

Feb. 1 

Jan. 10 

Jan. 10 

Mar. 6 

July 5 

June 14 

Mar. 21 

Mar. 23 



May 9 

April 7 
May 9 

April 6 

July 7 
July 6 

June 7 

July 12 
Nov. 25 



Nov. 25 
June 23 

July 18 
June 30 



Aug. 14 

Sent. 26 
Sept. 2 

Sept. 7 

Oct. 5 
Sept. 14 

Oct. 8 



Subject. 



No. 3. — Military operations of the Western Division. 

Enclosing circular of the governor and military commander 
of the State of Sonora, reporting victory gained over the 
interventionists at Matape ; also report of General Marti- 
nez on the battle of Alamos ; the enemy dispersed. 
Circular from Governor Morales communicating victory at 

Matape over the enemy. 
Governor Morales to secretary of war, communicating official 
report of General Martinez ; victories gained in the district 
of Alamos. 
General Martinez to Governor Morales, reporting the result 

of his expedition to Alamos. 
List of killed and wounded of battle of Alamos 

General Mejia, secretary of war, to General Morales : Thank- 
ing him in the name of the President. 

Acknowledges receipt of his note of 8th April and its enclo- 
sures. 

Communicates official reports of Generals Corona and Mor- 
ales of advantages ga'.ned over the French and traitors in 
Sonora and Sinaloa in March, 1866, and capture of the 
town of Magdalena, in Sonora, &c, &c, &c. 

General Corona to the governor of Sinaloa : Report of the 
battle at the Presidio, in Sinaloa. 

General Corona to the governor of Sinaloa : Further report 
of the military operations at Mazatlan and Presidio, caus- 
ing their abandonment by the French ; fifteen republicans, 
prisoners of war, shot by the French on the 19th March, 
1866. 

General Mejia, secretary of war, to the governor of Sinaloa : 
Communicates thanks of the President to General Corona 
for his skill and strategy against the enemy at Mazatlan 
and Presidio on the 18th and 22d March, 1866 ; French 
driven from Mazatlan and pursued to Presidio. 

General F. Sepulveda to the minister of war : Report of his 
operations and encounters with the enemy at Guajicori, 
Mazatlan, Siqueros, Concordia, Jacobo, and Palo3 Prietos, 
in which his troops were successful. 

General Mejia to the governor of Sinaloa : Receipt of his 
communication of the 7th April ; communicates thanks of 
the President to General Sepulveda for his successful ope- 
rations against Lozada and his French allies, which broke 
up their expedition against Concordia, &c. 

General J. G. Morales to governor of Sonora : Report of the 
capture of Gucurpe and surrender of its garrison to the 
liberal forces April 4, 1866. 

Acknowledging receipt of his communication of 14th June 
transmitting correspondence relative to the military opera- 
tions in Sinaloa and Sonora. 

Transmitting official report of General Pesqueira to the war 
department, May 10, respecting the operations which re- 
sulted in the capture of the city of Hermosillo (Sonora) 
May 4, 1866. 

Report of General Martinez to General Pesqueira respecting 
the attack and capture of Hermosillo on the 4th of May, 
and taken from the official journal of the constitutional 
government at El Paso June 7, 1866. 

Acknowledges receipt of his communication of the 6th, with 
account of capture of Hermosillo. 

Communicates reports of the military operations of the west- 
ern military division from July to September, 1866, con- 
sisting of thirteen enclosures. 

An index of the above mentioned enclosures 

General Rubi, governor of Sinaloa, transmits the result of 
the battle of Yxcuintla. 

The minister of war acknowledges receipt of same 

Letter of General Pesqueira, governor of Sonora, to the Mex- 
ican consul at San Francisco, California, reporting his mili- 
tary movements in the months of May and June, 1866. 

Official report of General Martinez on the capture of Her- 
mosillo, in the State of Sonora. 

Reply of General Mejia, minister of war, to the same 

Official report of the attack of Alamos and defeat of the ene- 
my by General Martinez. 

General Pesqueira's official report to the minister of war of 
the battle and capture of Ures, in Sonora. 

Reply of minister of war, and thanks to the army 

Official report of General Corona, chief of the army of the 
west, of the battle of Palos Prietos, near Mazatlan. 

Reply of minister of war, with thanks of the President 



720 



INDEX. 



From whom and 
to whom. 



Subject. 



Enclosure 12 
Enclosure 13 
Enclosure 14 



Mr. Seward to Mr. 
Romero. 



Mr. Romero to Mr. 
Seward. 



Enclosure 



Mr. Seward to Mr. 
Romero. 



Mr. Romero to Mr. 
Seward. 



Enclosure 1 

Enclosure 2 
Enclosure 3 



Mr. Hunter to Mr. 

Romero. 
Mr. Romero to Mr. 

Seward. 

Enclosure 



Mr. Seward to Mr. 
Romero. 



Mr. Romero to Mr. 
Seward. 

Enclosure 1 

Enclosures 

Enclosure 3 

Enclosure 4 

Enclosure5 

Enclosure 6 

Enclosure? 

Enclosure 8 

Mr. Seward to Mr. 
Romero. 

Mr. Romero to Mr. 
Seward. 

Enclosure 1 



1866. 
Sept. 19 

Sept. 21 

Sept. 11 

Dec. 8 



April 24 



July 7 
Aug. 22 

May 16 

June 7 
June 29 

Aug. 28 
Sept. 21 

July 12 

Sept. 24 

June 10 

June 10' 
May 16 

May 15 

May 15 

May 15 

May 15 

May 15 

May 15 

July 7 

July 13 
May 9 



Correspondence from Mazatlan in regard to the situation on 
the western military line. 

Mazatlan correspondence on the same subject ; evacuation of 
Guaymas. 

Report of E. Conner, United States consul to Guaymas, to 
Hon. \V. H. Seward ; evacuation of the port of Guaymas 
by the French forces. 

Acknowledges receipt of his note of 25th November, and en- 
closures, relative to operations of the western military 
division. 

No. 4. — Military operations of the Central Division. 

Transmits letter of General N. Regules, commanding army of 
the centre, to President Juarez, showing state of affairs in 
the line of his command, and the victory obtained over the 
enemy at Magdalen Heights, in the State of Michoacan. 

General N. Regules to President Juarez : Report of the bat- 
tle of Magdalen Heights, near the city of Uruapam, in the 
State of Michoacan ; also report of capture of Cedallos, in 
April, 1866 ; the gallant conduct of his troops should be 
noticed. 

Acknowledges receipt of his note of the 24th April, and its 
enclosure, from General N. Regules, respecting operations 
of the army of the centre. 

Transmits copies of letters from General N. Regules, com- 
manding army of the centre, and from General Alvarez, 
commanding army of the south, showing condition of affairs 
in their lines. 

General Regules to Mr. Romero, giving an account of his ope- 
rations ; in want of arms and munitions of war ; failure of 
the enemy to destroy his command. 

General Regules to Mr. Romero : His efforts to arm his forces 
properly, and determination to prosecute the war. 

General Juan Alvarez to Mr. Romero : Expedition sent 
against Chiantla, under General Diaz ; the position of Gen- 
eral Regules at Las Huertas. 

Acknowledges receipt of his note of the 22d, with enclosures 
from Generals Nicolas Regules and Juan Alvarez. 

Transmits copy of a letter from General Regules, command- 
ing army of the centre, giving report of the condition of his 
command. 

General Regules to Mr. Romero: The condition of affairs in 
his command ; the liberal cause gaining ground in Jalisco, 
Guanajuato, and Toluca. 

Acknowledges receipt of his note of the 21st, and its enclosure 
from General Regules. 

No. 5. — Military operations of the Eastern Division. 

Communicates sundry documents showing the condition of 

affairs, to date, in the eastern military division. 

An index of documents transmitted 

General Garcia to Mr. Romero : Transmits correspondence to 

be forwarded. 
General Garcia to the President : A statement of the recent 

events on the eastern line and division. 
General Garcia to the minister of war : Reports that the line 

south of Vera Cruz was attacked on the 24th of March last, 

and explains the situation of affairs. 
General Garcia to the minister of war : Official report of the 

victory at Tonata, in the State of Tabasco. 
General Garcia to the minister of war : Official report of the 

victory of Sayaltepec, by General Figueroa. 
General Garcia to minister of war : Official report of General 

Diaz of victory at Janultepec. 
General Garcia to minister of war : News of General Diaz's 

victory at Putla, in the State of Oajaca. 
Acknowledges receipt of his communication of the 10th June, 

and its enclosures, relating to the operations of the army of 

the east. 
Transmitting copies of letters from Generals Diaz and Garcia, 

commanding the army of the east, relative to their opera- 
tions in Oajaca, and south of Vera Cruz, and before Tlaco- 

talpam. 
General Diaz to Mr. Romero : The condition of his command 

aud division ; want of means and arms ; his operations and 

plans ; opinion as to the presidency of Juarez — approves of 

the measure. 



INDEX. 



721 



101 

102 



103 
104 



From whom and 
to whom. 



Enclosure 2 

Enclosure 3 

Enclosure 4 

Enclosure 5 

Enclosure 6 

Enclosure? 

Mr. Seward to Mr. 
Romero. 

Mr. Romero to Mr. 
Seward. 



Enclosure!. 
Enolosure 2. 

Enclosure 3. 

Enclosure 4. 

Enclosure 5. 

i Enclosure 6. 

Enclosure 7. 



Mr. Seward to Mr. 

Romero. 
Mr. Romero to Mr. 

Seward. 



105 
106 



Enclosure 1. 
Enclosure 2. 

Enclosure 3. 

Enclosure 4 . 

Enclosures. 



Mr. Seward to Mr. 
Romero. 



Mr. Romero to Mr. 
Seward. 



Enclosure 1 
Enclosure 2 

Enclosure 3 



Enclosures 4, 5, 6, 

and 7. 
Enclosure8 



Enclosure 9. 



Subject. 



Mr. Seward to Mr. 
Romero. 



1866. 
June 15 
i 
June 15 

June 3 

June 6 

May 15 

May 29 
July 19 

Oct. 6 

Oct. 6 
July 28 

Sept. 20 

Sept, 20 

July 30 

Sept. 8 

Aug. 31 

Oct. 12 

Oct, 21 

Oct. 21 
Aug. 12 

Aug. 20 

Aug. 20 

Aug. 20 

Dec. 26 
Nov. 20 

Not. 20 
Sept. 1 

Oct. 6 

Oct. 5 
Oct. 11 
Oct. 18 

Nov. 30 



General Garcia to the minister of war : Transmits reports of 
the section operating against Tlacotalpam. 

Colonel Carreon to General Garcia : Skirmish with the garri- 
son of Tlacotalpam ; enemy beaten. 

General Garcia's report of the attack of Colonel Carreon upon 
Tlacotalpam, and destruction of Fort Hornos, near that 
city, June 2, 1866. 

Colonel Carreon to General Garcia : Report of his operations 
against Tlacotalpam on the 5th instant ; the enemy driven 
to their last intrenchments. 

Colonel Carreon to General Garcia : Report of his further 
operations against Tlacotalpam ; the enemy driven to their 
ships and fortifications. 

Colonel Carreon to General Garcia : Is obliged to withdraw 
from Tlacotalpam, owing to the fire of the gunboats. 

Acknowledges receipt of his note of the 13th, and its enclo- 
sures, from Generals Garcia and Diaz, relative to military 
operations of the eastern army corps. 

Transmits documents relating to the military operations of 
eastern army corps, and occupation of Tlacotalpam by 
General Garcia. 

Index of the documents enclosed with the above 

Letter of General Diaz to Mr. Romero, giving an account of 
his late operations in the State of Oajaca. 

Letter of General Garcia to Mr. Romero, enclosing following 
documents : 

General Garcia to President Juarez, informing him of the late 
events in the line of his command. 

Official despatch from General Garcia to the minister of war, 
in Chihuahua, communicating the capture of Alvarado. 

Official despatch of General Garcia to the minisser of war, 
on the occupation of Tlacotalpam. 

Proclamation of Colonel Teran, second in command of the 
line south of Vera Cruz, to the inhabitants of that State. 

Acknowledging receipt of his communication of the 6th in- 
stant, with its several enclosures. 

Transmits sundry documents respecting condition of affairs 
in eastern division of Mexico, under immediate command of 
General Diaz, during August, 1866. 

Index of documents referred to in above letter 

General Diaz's letter to a friend, giving an account of the latest 
military operations. 

General Diaz's letter to Mr. Romero, from Chiantla, enclosing 
the following communications, viz : 

A note from General Diaz to the minister of war of the Mexi- 
ean republic, reporting bis latest military operations in the 
line of his command. 

General Diaz to the minister of war, enclosing the official re- 
port of General Louis Figueroa, from Teotitlan, dated May 
1, giving an account of his movements to the end of April, 
1866. 

Acknowledges receipt of his note of the 21st of October, and 
enclosures, relative to the operations of General Diaz, com- 
manding the eastern division of the liberal army. 

Transmits sundry documents relating to recent events in the 
eastern military division: Important victories of General 
Diaz over the French and Austrians, October 3d and 18th, 
at Miahuatlan and Carbonera, in the State of Oajaca. 

An index of documents transmitted with the above 

General Diaz to Mr. Romero, from Ixcaquistla, State of 
Oajaca, communicating his operations to September. 

Official report of General Diaz to the war department, with 
annexes, an important victory at Miahuatlan, State of 
Oajaca, on the 3d of October, 1866. 

Statements of the killed and wounded at Miahuatlan, and of 
the material of war captured from the enemy. 

General Diaz to General Garcia : The victory gained at Mia- 
huatlan, and his march upon Oajaca. 

Official report of General Diaz to the minister of war, respect- 
ing the victory gained over the Austrian columns at Carbo- 
nera, State of Oajaca, on the 18th of October, 1866. 
Acknowledges receipt of his note of the 20th instant, with 
enclosures, relative to military operations on the eastern 
military line. 



46 Mex. 



722 



INDEX. 



From whom and 
to whom. 



Mr. Romero to Mr. 
Seward. 



Enclosure 1 


Feb. 


1 


Enclosure 


Jan. 


24 


Enclosure 3 


1865. 
Dec. 24 


Enclosure 4 


Dec. 


24 


Enclosure 5 


1866. 
Mar. 4 


Enclosure 6 


Feb. 


25 


Enclosure 7 


Feb. 


25 


Enclosure 8 


Feb. 


27 


Enclosure 9 


Feb. 


25 


Enclosure 10 


Feb. 


28 


Enclosure 11 


Mar. 


4 


Enclosure 12 


Feb. 


25 


Enclosure 13 


Feb. 


25 


Enclosure 14 


Feb. 


25 


Enclosure 15 


Mar. 


3 


Mr. Seward to Mr. 

Romero. 
Mr. Romero to Mr. 

Seward. 
Enclosure 1 


July 
Nov. 
Mar. 


7 
1 
6 


Enc!osure2 


Mar. & 

April. 


Enclosure3 


April 12 


Mr. Seward to Mr. 
Romero. 


Nov. 


9 


Mr. Romero to Mr. 
Seward. 


Nov. 


21 


Enclosure 1 


Nov. 


21 


Enclosures 


Mar. 


17 



1866. 
June 12 



Subject. 



No. 6. — The presidential term of President Juarez. 

Communicates sundry documents relative to the approval of 
the decree prolonging the constitutional term of President 
Juarez, by the following officials and persons, viz : General 
Garcia Morales, governor of Sonora ; Governor Antonio 
Pedrin, of Lower California ; General Domingo Rubi, gov- 
ernor of Sinaloa ; General Ramon Corona, commanding 
army of the west ; also by the people of several localities. 

General Morales, governor, &c, of Sonora, to the secretary 
of state : Approves of the decrees of November 8, 1865, by 
which President Juarez continues in the presidential chair. 

Jos6 A. Godoy, Mexican consul at San Francisco, communi- 
cates the approval of Governor Pedrin, of Lower Califor- 
nia, of decrees of 8th November, sustaining the presidency 
of Benito Juarez. 

General Domingo Rubi to the minister of foreign affairs, ap- 
proving of decrees of 8th November, 1865. 

General Corona, commander of the western division, to the 
minister of foreign affairs, approving of the decrees of 
November 8, 1865. 

Acts of the people of the State of Tabasco, sustaining the de- 
crees of November 8, 1865, and the presidency of Benito 
Juarez, signed by 262 citizens. 

Act of the people of the city of San Antonio de Cardenas, 
sustaining decrees of November 8, 1865, and presidency of 
Juarez, signed by 34 persons. 

Act of the people of the town of Santiago de Teapa, approv- 
ing of decrees of November 8, 1865, and sustaining presi- 
dency of Benito Juarez, signed by 60 citizens. 

Act of the citizens of Navidad de Cunduacan, approving of 
decrees of November 8, 1865, and recognizing Benito Juarez 
as President, signed by 75 citizens. 

Act of the citizens of San Isidro Comalcalco, approving de- 
crees of November 8, 1865, and recognizing Benito Juarez 
as President, signed by 51 citizens. 

Act of the citizens of San Antonio de Padua de Nacajuca, ap- 
proving decrees of November 8, 1865, and recognizing pre- 
sidency of Benito Juarez, signed by 75 citizens. 

Acts of the citizens of Huimanguillo and of Riberas, approv- 
ing decrees of November 8, 1865, and sustaining Benito 
Juarez as President, signed by 44 citizens. 

Act of the citizens of Balancan, approving decrees of Novem- 
ber 8, 1865, and recognizing Benito Juarez as President, 
signed by 47 citizens. 

Act of the citizens of Jalpa, approving the decrees of Novem- 
ber 8, 1865, and recognizing Benito Juarez as President, 
signed by 65 citizens: 

Act of the citizens of San Marcos del Paraiso, recognizing de- 
crees of November 8, 1865, and presidency of Benito Juarez, 
signed by 58 citizens. 

Act of the citizens of Santa Cruz de Chichicapa, to same 
effect as the foregoing, signed by a large number of Us citi- 
zens. 

Acknowledges his note of June 13, and enclosures, respecting 
the presidential term of Benito Juarez. 

Communicates forty-nine acts, by the people of the State of 
Chiapas, sustaining the presidency of Benito Juarez. 

Governor Ramirez to the people of Chiapas, asking that a 
vote be taken on the question of the continued presidency 
of Benito Juarez. 

Favorable vote of forty -nine corporations of the State of Chi- 
apas, sustaining the decrees of November 8, 1865, and pre- 
sidency of Benito Juarez. 

The governor of the State of Chiapas to the citizens of the 
State : The question of the legality of the decrees of No- 
vember 8, 1861, submitted and approved by the State. 

Acknowledges receipt of his note of the 1st, and enclosures, 
relative to the duration of the term of office of President 
Juarez. 

Transmits sundry documents showing the adhesion of several 
States to the decrees of November 8, 1865, in support of 
Benito Juarez as President ; also letters of Mr. Bias Bruzual 
and Domingo F.. Sarmiento, on the same subject. 

Index of documents enclosed with the above, relative to the 
decrees of November 8, 1865. 

The governor of Tabasco transmits to the minister of state 
the act of adhesion of the city of San Juan Bantista to de- 
crees of November 8, 1865. 



INDEX. 



723 



From whom and 
to whom. 



Subject. 



Enclosure 3 
Enclosure 4 
Enclosiire 5 

Enclosure 6 

Enclosure 7 



1866. 
Mar. 4 
July 9 
April 13 



Mar. 8 



May 31 



Enclosure 8. 



Enclosure 9 

Mr. Seward to Mr. 
Romero. 



Nov. 21 
Nov. 28 



Mr. Romero to Mr. 
Seward. 


May 


26 


Mr. Seward to Mr. 

Romero. 
Mr. Romero to Mr. 

Seward. 


July 
Aug. 


6 
12 


Enclosure 
Enclosure 


1 

2 


Aug. 
May 


12 

15 


Enclosure 


3 


June 


5 


Enclosure 
Enclosure 


4 


June 
May 


20 

24 


Enclosure 


6 


May 


21 


Enclosure 


7^ 


May 


25 


Enclosure 


8 


May 


25 


Enclosure 


9 


July 


6 


Enclosure 


10 


Aug. 


6 


Enclosure 


11 


July 


12 


Mr. Seward to Mr. 
Romero. 


Aug. 


20 


Mr. Romero to Mr. 
Seward. 


Sept. 


29 


Enclosure 
Enclosure 


1 

2 


Sept. 
Sept. 


29 
5 


Enclosure 


3 


Sept. 


20 


Enclosure 


4 


Sept. 


25 


Enclosure 


5 


July 


29 


Enclosure 


6 


Aug. 


5 


Enclosure 


7 


Aug. 


16 


Enclosure 


8 


Aug. 


19 



Act referred to in the foregoing note, signed by 266 citizens. . 

Reply of the secretary of state to the governor of Tabasco.. 

Mr. Godoy, Mexican consul at San Francisco, California, com- 
municates to the state department a note from the governor 
of Chiapas, reporting adhesion of the people to the decrees 
of November 8, 1865. 

The governor of the State of Guerrero to the Mexican consul 
at San Francisco : The people of the State approve the de- 
crees of November 8, 1865, and support Benito Juarez in 
the presidency. 

Letter from Mr. Bias Bruzual, envoy extraordinary and min- 
ister plenipotentiary of Venezuela, accredited to the govern- 
ment of the United States, addressed to Mr. Romero, stating 
his opinion that the functionaries elected by the people of 
Mexico ought to continue in the discharge of their duties 
till a new election can take place. 

Letter from Mr. D. F. Sarmiento, envoy extraordinary -and 
minister plenipotentiary of the Argentine republic, to Mr. 
Romero : His opinion is that Benito Juarez should continue 
to act as President. 

Mr. Romero to Mr. Sarmiento, in answer to the above 

Acknowledges receipt of correspondence between Mr. Romero 
and Senor Lerdo de Tejada, in regard to General Santa 
Anna and his offers. 

No. 7. — Concerning Santa Anna. 

'■ Communicates letter of Santa Anna to Mr. Romero, tendering 
his services to the republic, and his reply to Santa Anna 
declining the offer. 

Acknowledges his note of the 26th May, and its enclosures, 
relative to offers of services by General Santa Anna. 

Transmits correspondence between Santa Anna and his gov- 
ernment respecting the offers of the former to serve the re- 
public ; Santa Anna's offers are declined. 

Index of the documents transmitted 

Protest of the New York Mexican club against Don Antonio 
Lopez de Santa Anna. 

Manifest of Santa Anna to the Mexican people, dated from 
Elizabethport, New Jersey. 

Reply of the New York Mexican club to the above manifest.. 

Mr. Romero to Mr. Lerdo de Tejada : Transmits him copy of 
Santa Anna's offer of services. 

General Santa Anna to Mr. Romero : Makes a formal offer of 
his services to the Mexican government. 

Mr. Romero to Mr. Lerdo de Tejada : Transmits his reply to 
General Santa Anna. 

Mr. Romero to General Santa Anna : He will send his offer 
to the Mexican government, as he is not authorized to de- 
cide upon it. 

Mr. Lerdo de Tejada to Mr. Romero : The Mexican govern- 
ment cannot accept the offer of General Santa Anna's ser- 
vices — reasons given in full. 

Mr. Romero to General Santa Anna : Informs him of the de- 
cision of his government. 

Decree of the usurper, Maximilian, ordering the sequestration 
of Santa Anna's property in Mexico. 

Acknowledges receipt of his note of the 12th instant, and en- 
closures, relative to offer of services by General Santa 
Anna. 

Transmitting sundry documents relative to General Santa 
Anna and his offer of services to the republic, heretofore 
alluded to in his previous notes ; also index of the same. 

Index of the documents referred to above 

Santa Anna's reply to Mr. Romero's and to Mr. Lerdo de Te- 
jada's notes of May 25 and July 6, 1866. 

Mr. Romero's refutation of Santa Anna's charges and imputa- 
tions in the preceding letter. 

Copy of foregoing letter is sent to the Cronica for publication, 
by Mr. Mariscal. 

Protest of Mexicans residing in San Francisco, California, 
against interference of Santa Anna in the public affairs of 
Mexico. 

Protest of Mexicans residing in New Almaden, California, on 
same subject. 

Protest of Mexicans residing in San Andres, California, for. 
the same purpose. 

Protest of Mexicans residing in Virginia City, Nevada, for a 
similar purpose. 



724 



INDEX. 



From whom and 
to whom. 



119 
120 



Enclosure 9 
Enclosure 10 

Enclosure 11 

Enclosure 12 
Enclosure 13 

Enclosure 14 



Subject. 



Enclosure 15- 
Enclosure 16. 



Mr. Seward to Mr. 
Romero. 



Mr. Romero to Mr. 
Seward. 



Enclosure 1. 
Enclosure2. 



124 



Santa Anna to the 
President of the 
United States. 



General Santa An- 
na to Mr. Seward 



123 Mr. Mazuera to Mr. 
F. W. Seward. 



125 

126 
127 

128 
129 
130 
131 



1866. 
Sept. 7 



June 28 



July 16 

July 17 
Aug. 27 



Aug. 28 

Sept. 1 
Sept. 5 
Oct. 9 

Nov. 16 

Sept. 20 

Oct. 19 

1865. 
Dec. 12 

Dec. 12 



1866. 
May 21 



May 26 
June 26 

Aug. 10 

Aug. 16 
Nov. 7 

Nov. 8 

Nov. 8 

Nov. 14 

Dec. 8 



Protest of Mexicans residing in San Juan Bautista, with the 373 

same intention. 
Extracts from case of Taylor against Montgomery and Ca- 3' 

nedo, respecting purchase of steamer Agnes, in the name 

of Santa Anna, to bring him from St. Thomas to the United 

States. 
Extracts from report of suit of Santa Anna against Abraham 

Baiz, for embezzlement of money given him in trust. 

Reply of counsel of Abraham Baiz to the above report 378 

Santa Anna's case in the supreme court of New York, before 378 

Judge Barnard, against Dario Mazuera and Abraham Baiz, 

for breach of trust. 
Notice of suit of Montgomery against Santa Anna, demand- 382 

ing $60,000 for services as his agent. 
Santa Anna's power of attorney to Dario Mazuera, given at 31 

St. Thomas, December 12, 1865, authorizing him to act in 

the United States for Santa Anna. 
Notice of L. M. Montgomery's suit against Santa Anna, for 384 

services rendered him. 
Notice of Emelia Cupia's suit against Luis G. Vidal y Rivas, 3: 

for debt and his imprisonment. 
Acknowledges receipt of his note of the 29th September, and 385 

correspondence, respecting the offer of services by Santa 

Anna to the Mexican government. 
Communicates sundry documents relative to General Santa 

Anna, and a letter'from the minister of foreign affairs ap- 
proving his reply to Santa Anna. 

Mr. Romero to Mr. Lerdo de Tejada: Transmits copy of his 386 

letter of 20th, in reply to General Santa Anna. 

Mr. Lerdo de Tejada to Mr. Romero : Approving his reply to 386 

Santa Anna of September 20, 1866. 

Soliciting assistance from the United States, through his com- 386 

missioners, Messrs. Lamada and Mazuera, who are fully 
authorized to treat, for the purpose of re-establishing a re- 
public in Mexico, by placing him at the head of affairs 
there. 

General Santa Anna to the President of the United States : 387 

Sends Colonel Dario Mazuera as a commissioner to seek aid 
for the restoration of Mexico as a republic. 

Sends two commissioners, Messrs. Baiz and Mazuera, to treat 388 

with the Secretary of State; his object to tender his ser- 
vices to President Juarez and restore the republic in Mexico; 
desires the assistance of the United States in this business. 

Desires an interview with the Secretary of State to present 388 

letter of General Santa Anna to him. 

[Memorandum.] Mr. Seward declines to receive letter 389 

[Memorandum.] Colonel Mazuera informed of the above by 389 

Mr. Chew, chief clerk of State Department. 

General Santa Anna to Mr. Seward : Sends Captain H. S 389 

Eyting as an envoy to the Secretary upon most important 
business to the two republics ; his proposals will be of great 
advantage to the United States, and asks the heartiest pro- 
tection. 

General Santa Anna to Mr. Seward: Sends Mr. J. N. Lake 389 

as a commissioner to the Secretary, with the view of making 
arrangements for the overthrow of the empire in Mexico, 
and asks an interview. 

Mr. Seward to General Santa Anna: Declines to grant the 390 

interview for reasons given. 

Don A. L. de Santa Anna, jr., to Mr. Seward: Desires to 300 

know whether the United States is treating with his uncle, 
General Santa Anna ; thinks his uncle is being deceived by 
others. 

Reply of Mr. Seward to the above : That the United States 391 

has not recognized any other authority than that of Benito 
Juarez as President of Mexico. 

Mr. Seward to Mr. Courtney : Transmits his letter to Santa 3! ' i 

Anna's nephew, if there be such a person ; if not, to return 
it to the State Department. 

Mr. Courtney to Mr. Seward : There is such a person as Mr 392 

Santa Anna, jr., to whom he has mailed Mr. Seward's let- 
ter ; returns other documents to the department. 

Mr. Seward to General Santa Anna : He is directed by the 392 

President to acknowledge his. note of 30th November, and 
to suspend all further correspondence with him. 



INDEX. 



725 



From whom and 
to whom . 



Mr. Romero to Mr. 
Seward. 



Enclosure 1 

Enclosures 

Enclosure 3 

Enclosure 4 

Enclosures 

Enclosure 6 

Enclosure 7 

Enclosure8 

Enclosure 9 

Mr. Seward to Mr. 
Romero. 

Mr. Romero to Mr. 
Seward. 

Enclosure 1 

Enclosure 2 

Enclosure3 

Enclosure 4 

Enclosures 

Enclosure 6 



Enclosure 7. 



Mr. Seward to Mr. 
Romero. 



Mr. Stanton to Mr. 
Seward. 



Enclosure 1 . 
Enclosures. 



Date. 



1866. 
Oct. 31 



1865. 
Oct. 31 
Dec. 26 



1866. 
April 30 

Mar. 10 
April 4 
June 30 

June 5 

Sept. 14 

Sept. 22 
Nov. 13 

Dec. 8 

Nov. 3 

Aug. 28 

July 24 
July 24 
Oct. 29 

June 25 

Nov. 21 

Dec. 17 

Dec. 8 

Nov. 5 
Nov. 30 



Subject. 



No. 8. — General Ortega's case. 

Transmits sundry documents respecting the claim of General 
Ortega to the presidency of Mexico ; his object is to excite 
insurrection in his own favor in the republic. 



Index of the documents transmitted above 

First pamphlet published in New York by Don Jesus Gon- 
zalez Ortega, containing his protest against the decrees of 
the 8th November, 1865, (December 21,) and his address to 
the nation on that subject, (December 26.) 

Circular of the department of foreign relations and govern- 
ment of the republic of Mexico in reply to the foregoing 
protest and address by Ortega. 

Second pamphlet published in New York by Don Jesus Gon- 
zalez Ortega, containing the letters of the nine persons who 
are disposed to aid him in the effort to provoke sedition in 
Mexico and against Juarez. 

Answer to the foregoing pamphlet, containing replies to Don 
Jesus Gonzalez Ortega by Mexicans residing in the United 
States, to whom he applied for their opinions respecting the 
expediency of the decrees of the 8th of November, 1865. 

Another replication to Don J. G. Ortega's pamphlet, contain- 
ing the opinions of several Mexicans now in armed defence 
of their country, and in favor of the decrees of November 
8, 1865, sustaining Juarez. 

Reply of the official organ of the Mexican republic to Don 
Jesus Gonzalez Ortega's second pamphlet. 

An article from the official organ of the Mexican republic, 
containing various letters intercepted from Don Jesus G. 
Ortega and Don Guillermo Prieto. 

Article from the official organ, containing sundry documents 
on the same subject. 

Acknowledges receipt of his communication of 31st October, 
with various documents relating to the claim of General 
Ortega to the presidency of the republic of Mexico. 

Transmits sundry documents relative to the conduct of Don 
Jesus Gonzalez Ortega while in the United States, for the 
information of Ihe United States government. 

Article from the official organ of the republic on the preten- 
sions of General Ortega to the presidency of Mexico ; au- 
thority given to coin money for the republic in the United 
States contrary to law. 

Mr. McKee to Mr. Yglesias, minister of the treasury, (Chi- 
huahua.) informing him that he has entered into an agree- 
ment with General Ortega for the establishment of a mint 
at San Francisco ; solicits same privilege from Benito 
Juarez. 

General Ortega's grant to Dr. William H. McKee to coin 
Mexican money in San Francisco, California ; appoints two 
commissioners to that effect. 

Agreement between E. Huerta, F. M. Ortega and W. H. 
McKee for coining Mexican money at San Francisco, Cali- 
fornia ; the same ratified July 24 at the city of New York. 

Minister Yglesias to Mr. McKee, in reply to his letter of 28th 
August ; the acts of General Ortega are null and void ; de- 
clines to grant him the privilege of coining in a foreign 
country. 

General Ortega to General Negrete : Tells Negrete that the 
United States government has recognized him as President 
of Mexico, and his intention to proceed to Mexico and place 
himself at the head of the republic ; he will receive a loan 
of $50,000,000 ; gives instructions respecting the publication 
of sundrv proclamations. 

Article in the New York Tribune, by "A Friend to Repub- 
lican Mexico," sustaining the claim of Juarez to the presi- 
dency, and denying that of General Ortega ; review of the 
question. 

Acknowledging receipt of his communication of the 8th 
instant, in which the conduct and pretensions of General 
Ortega are referred to. 
Transmits report of General Grant, with protest of J. G. 
Ortega against his arrest by the military authorities of the 
United States at Brazos Santiago. 

Protest of General Ortega addressed to Captain John Paul- 
son, port commander, (Brazos.) 

A statement of the reasons for arresting General Ortega given 
by General P. H. Sheridan ; concurred in by General U. S. 
Grant. 



726 



INDEX. 



From whom and 
to whom. 



Enclosure 3 

Enclosure 4 
Enclosure 5 

Enclosure 6 



Mr. Romero to Mr. 
Seward. 



1866. 
Nov. 27 



Nov. 30 
Dec. 11 

Dec. 7 



May- 3 



Enclosure 1 Mar. 31 



Mr. Seward to Mr. 

Romero. 
Mr. Romero to Mr. 

Seward. 
Enclosure 1 



Enclosure 2. 



Mr. Seward to Mr. 
Romero. 



Mr. Seward to Mr. 
Romero. 



Enclosure i . 



Mr. Romero to Mr. 
Seward. 



July 6 

Oct. 8 

Sept. 6 

Sept. 6 

Oct. 12 



April 17 
April 16 
April 17 



Mr. Romero to Mr. 
Seward. 


Aug. 


Enclosure 1 


July 


Enclosure 2 


July 


Mr. Seward to Mr. 


Aug. 


Romero. 




Mr. Romero to Mr. 
Seward. 


Mar. 


Enclosure 1 


Mar. 


Mr. Seward to Mr. 
Romero. 


Mar. 


Enclosure 1 


Mar. 


Mr. Romero to Mr. 
Seward. 


Mar. 



Subject. 



Telegram of General Sheridan to General Grant : The sur- 
render of Matamoras to the United States, and his proceed- 
ings respecting same. 

Referred to Secretary of War by General Grant, and by Mr. 
Stanton to Mr. Seward. 

Report of General Sheridan to General Rawlins respecting 
the surrender of Matamoras to General Sedgwick, and by 
the latter to General Escobedo. 

Article from the Rio Grande Courier on the occupation of 
Matamoras by General Sedgwick. 



No. 9. — Custom-house duties at Acapulco. 

Transmits letter from the minister of foreign affairs in refer- 
ence to certain duties levied at Acapiilco upon American 
citizens, and giving the reasons why the matter has not yet 
been decided upon. 

Mr. Lerdo de Tejada to Mr. Romero : Respecting custom- 
house duties levied at Acapulco ; case not decided because 
of distance and insecurity of the roads. 

Acknowledges receipt of the foregoing note and enclosures- - . 



Transmits correspondence with his government respecting 
duties exacted of citizens of the United States at Acapulco. 

Mr. Lerdo de Tejada to Mr. Romero : Sends him a copy of 
letter of minister of finance ; same subject as above. 

Mr. Iglesias to Mr. Lerdo de Tejada : In reference to the re- 
port of governor of Guerrero on same subject as the fore- 
going ; duties collected at Acapulco. 

Acknowledges receipt of his note of the 8th instant in refer- 
ence to delay in answering the complaint of American citi- 
zens that duties had been illegally collected at Acapulco ; 
regrets this delay, and hopes it will be avoided hereafter. 

No. 10. — Case of the schooner Soledad Cos. 

Transmits letter from Secretary of the Navy respecting dis- 
position made of the Soledad Cos ; she was condemned and 
sold as a prize. 

Mr. Welles to Mr. Seward : Receipt of Mr. Seward'sletter and 
papers relative to the Soledad Cos ; condemned, sold, and 
proceeds distributed to the captors. 

Acknowledges receipt of Mr. Seward's letter and enclosures 
relative to the Soledad Cos ; Mr. Romero transmits same 
to his government. 

No. 11. — Seat of the Mexican government. 

Communicates letter and circular of the minister for foreign 

affairs relative to the transfer of the seat of the government 

from El Paso to Chihuahua, June 17, ]866. 
The minister for foreign affairs to Mr. Romero : Transmits 

circular respecting change of the seat of the government to 

Chihuahua. 
Circular of Seiior Lerdo de Tejada to the governor of the 

State ; same subject as above. 
Acknowledges receipt of his note of the 6th, with enclosures, 

relative to the change of seat of the government to Chihuahua. 

No. 12. — Exportation of arms. 

He is informed that arms are being sent from New York to 
Vera Cruz for Maximilian ; desires that their exportation 
be prevented. 

Mr. Navarro, Mexican consul at New York, informs Mr. 
Romero that the steamer Manhattan sails next day for Vera 
Cruz with 5,000 muskets for Maximilian, and in violation of 
the la,ws of neutrality. 

His note received ; transmits opinion of Attorney General on 
the subject of exportation of arms, from which it appears 
the United States cannot intervene. 

Mr. Speed to Mr. Seward : Has received Mr. Seward's letter 
and enclosures from Mr. Romero ; citizens of the United 
States cannot be prevented from purchasing and forward- 
ing the arms in question. 

Argues the question of the exportation of arms at length, and 
expects that Mexico will not be placed in a situation infe- 
rior to that of her enemy. 



INDEX. 



727 



From whom and 
to whom. 



Mr. Seward to Mr. 
Romero. 



Mr. Romero to Mr. 
Seward. 


Aug. 3 






Enclosure 2 


1865. 
Feb. 5 


Enclosure 3 


Nov. 1 


Enclosure 4 


Dec. 6 


Enclosure5 


Dec. 6 


Enclosure 6 


Dec. 6 




1866. 
Feb. 9 




Feb. 17 



Enclosure 9. 
Enclosure 10 

Enclosure 11 



Enclosure 12 



Enclosure 13. 



Mr. Seward to M r 
Romero. 



Mr. Romero to Mr. 
Seward. 



Enclosure 1. 
Enclosure 2. 



Enclosure3. 
Enclosure 4. 



Mr. Seward to Mr. 
Romero. 



Mr. Romero to Mr. 
Seward. 



Subject. 



1866. 
April 18 



Feb. 17 
May 3 



May 14 

June 6 

Dec. 16 

Aug. 16 
Dec. 12 
April 5 



Feb. 7 
April 10 
Dec. 20 



Acknowledges receipt of his note of the 25th March ; rests 
the question of the exportation of arms upon the opinion of 
the Attorney General ; Mexico will not be placed in a posi- 
tion inferior to that of her enemy. 

No. 13. — Southern immigration to Mexico. 

Transmits documents showing the efforts of the French 
agents in Mexico to induce 'southern immigration to that 
republic, their feelings being hostile to the United States. 

August 3, 1866 : Index of documents enclosed above 



Letter of Mr. Charles M. Douglass, of Charleston, South Car- 
olina, to the minister of the so-called Mexican empire, in 
Washington, inquiring about the pay of passage for emi- 
grants to Mexico. 

Letter from Mr. John O. Shelby, at Cordova, to Mr. Frank 
Lilly, of St. Louis, Missouri, giving information for confed- 
erate emigrants to Mexico. 

Communication from Mr. M. F. Maury, called imperial com- 
missioner of colonization, to Mr. E. Farenne, of New York, 
in relation to the establishment of a bureau of correspond- 
ence in New York city. 

A copy, in English, of the so-called colonization laws issued 
by the so-called Emperor Maximilian. 

An extract from the Mexican Times of December 9, 1863, 
containing a circular signed by Maury, and addressed to 
persons who wished to settle in Mexico. 

Letter from Mr. Benjamin Crowther to Mr. J. C. Littrell, of 
St. Louis, Missouri, giving information respecting confed- 
erate settlers in Mexico. 

Letter from Mr. Richard L. Maury, son of Mr. F. Maury, 
called imperial sub-commissioner of colonization, and 
colonel in the late confederate army, to Mr. James M. 
Payne, of Nashville, Tennessee, enclosing the following 
circular : 

Circular of Mexican colonization 

Letter from Mr. R. L. Maury to Mr. W. C. S. Yentress, of New 
Orleans, informing him that his father had gone to Eng- 
land and would return in October with his family ; enclos- 
ing copy of No. 9. 

Letter from Mr. Maury to Mr. Reuben Herndon, in Galves- 
ton, Texas, telling him of the inducements to immigration 
held out by the usurper, MaximiliaD, and enclosing copy of 
circular No. 9. 

The colony founded by certain confederate ex-generals near 
Cordova, and named Carlotta, under the sanction of Maxi- 
milian, is broken up and destroyed by the liberal inhabi- 
tants in its vicinity. 

Letter from General Sterling Price giving an account of the 
colony of Carlotta, established by himself and other con- 
federates ; reiterates his adhesion to rebeldom, and is per- 
fectly content with his lot in Mexico, &c, &c. 

Acknowledges receipt of his note of 3d instant and enclosures 
relative to emigration to Mexico from the southern States 
of the Union. 

Communicates four documents relative to colonization pro- 
jects in Mexico by citizens of the United States residing in 
the southern States of the Union. 

Mr. F. Maury to M. M. Pettis, (Alabama:) Gives informa- 
tion concerning colonization in Mexico. 

Arrival of Missourians ; Blaximilian firmly seated ; ex-Gov- 
■ernor Allen publishes a paper in Mexico ; the emigrants 
and their colony ; liberal grants of land made ; the grand- 
son of Iturbide heir to the throne ; list of exiles, confede- 
rates, &c. 

Mr. M. F. Maury to Mr. O'Neal : Giving full detaik of the 
colonization schemes in Mexico from the southern States. 

From same to same : Same subject ; advises him to bring 
his negroes with him. 

Acknowledges receipt of his note of 12th instant transmitting 
the letters of Mr. Maury respecting colonization in Mexico. 

No. 14. — Affairs at Bagdad. 

Transmits correspondence relative to certain goods seized by 
the United States authorities at Clarksville, Texas, and 
which had been previously condemnedby the Mexican gov- 
ernment and confiscated under the revenue laws ; desires 
an investigation in the business. 



728 



INDEX. 



From whom and 
to whom. 



Subject. 



Enclosure 1. 



Enclosure 2. 
Enclosure 3. 



1866. 
Feb. 5 



Jan. 21 



Mr. Romero to Mr. 
Seward. 



Enclosure 1. 



Mr. Romero to Mr. 
Seward. 

Enclosure 1 

Enclosure 2 

Enclosure 3 

Enclosure 4 

Enclosure 5 

Enclosure 6 

Enclosure 7 

Enclosure 8 



Mr. Seward to Mr. 
Romero. 



Enclosure 1. 



Mr. Seward to Mr. 
Romero. 



Enclosure 1. 
Enclosure 2. 



Mr. Romero to Mr. 
Seward. 



Mr. Seward to Mr. 
Romero. 

Do 



Mr. Romero to Mr. 
Seward. 



Mr. Seward to Mr. 
Romero. 



Mar. 6 
Mar. 31 



Feb. 24 

Jan. 24 
Jan. 24 

Jan. 20 
Jan. 22 

Jan. 16 
Jan. 1 
April 22 

April 19 
June 2 

May 30 

May 9 

June 4 

July 7 
Aug. 8 



Aug. 9 



Oct, 20 



Colonel Mejia to Mr. Eomero : In reference to seizure of the 
cargo of the Helena by "United States authorities ; asks his 
attention to the same. 

Colonel Mejia to General Weitzel : Same subject 

Appointment of ColoDel Mejia as military commandant of 
Bagdad by General Escobedo. 

With reference to the delivery of certain arms and munitions 
of war, captured at Bagdad by the liberals, to the imperial 
commander at Matamoras ; asks for information on this 
subject. 

Report of Colonel Mejia to Mr. Romero and his proceedings 
to recover the arms, &c, mentioned in above note. 

Communicates documents relative to merchandise confiscated 
at Bagdad by order of General Escobedo as the property of 
the enemy. 

Colonel Mejia to Mr. Romero : Encloses documents relating 
to merchandise seized and held by United States authorities 
at Clarksville, Texas, and belonging to Mexican govern- 
ment. 

Colonel Mejia to General Weitzel : Informing him of the dis- 
position made of the goods claimed by Elosequi and Mayo- 
ral, of Matamoras ; desires they be returned to their proper 
owners. 

List of articles seized by order of General Escobedo and fur- 
nished by Colonel Mejia to General Weitzel. 

Order of John P. Conklyn, provost marshal general district 
of Rio Grande, for return of certain goods seized and be- 
longing to Elosequi and Mayoral, of Matamoras ; a portion 
of said goods to be held until further orders. 

Exhibit A : Elosequi and Mayoral's list of goods taken forci- 
bly from them at Bagdad ; desire them to be returned. 

General Wright to Colonel Mejia : In reference to the goods 
seized at Bagdad ; refers him to the authorities at Washing- 
ton, as he cannot act in the premises — the goods being 
claimed by other parties. 

Colonel Mejia to Lieutenant Colonel Du May : Wishes to 
know whether he authorized any one to take private prop- 
erty in his name. 

Lieutenant Du May to Colonel Mejia : In answer to the above 
query ; his forcible seizure of goods said to belong to the 
imperial government. 

Receipt of his three notes of 30th and 31st March relative to 
seizure of arms and merchandise at Bagdad ; subject re- 
ferred to War Department; when reports are received 
they will be communicated to Mr. Romero. 

Mr. Stanton to Mr. Seward : Same subject, and promises an 
investigation therein. 

Communicates letter from War Department and report of 
General Weitzel respecting sequestration of goods claimed 
by Mexican liberal government. 

Thomas T. Eckart, Assistant Secretary of War, to Mr. 
Seward : Enclosing report of General Weitzel ; same sub- 
ject. 

Report of General Weitzel to Adjutant General L. Thomas 
on the seizure, &c, of the goods claimed by Mexican gov- 
ernment. 

Acknowledges receipt of his note of June 2 and its enclosures 
relative to goods seized at Clarksville ; will send the papers 
to his government ; desires further information on the sub- 
ject. 

Acknowledges his note above, and will comply with his re- 
quest for further information. 

In further reference to the seizure of arms and merchandise 
at Bagdad and the demand of General Escobedo for their 
return to him ; Mr. Seward gives him a statement of the 
proceedings taken by officers of the United States ; these 
being deemed lawful, the executive government cannot in- 
tervene in the premises ; his remedy is to be found in the 
courts of the United States. 

Acknowledges receipt of the above letter ; will refer the sub- 
ject for the determination of his government, to whom he 
sends copy of Mr. Seward's note of the 8th instant. 

No. 15. — Forced loans at Matamoras. 

Transmits letter from War Department, and also one from 
James B. Gauche, a citizen of the United States, relative 
to a forced loan of $1,900 exacted from him by the liberal 
authorities of Matamoras ; desires attention of his govern- 
ment to this case. 



INDEX. 



729 



From whom and 
to whom. 



Enclosure 1.. 
Enclosure 2. . 



Mr. Romero to Mr. 
Seward. 



General Sheridan 
to General Grant. 

Mr. Stanton to 
Gen. Sheridan. 

General Sheridan 
to General Grant. 



.do. 



General Sheridan 
to Gen. Rawlins. 



Mr. Romero to Mr. 
Seward. 



Enclosure 1. 
Enclosure 2. 



Mr. Seward to Mr. 
Romero. 



Mr. Bigelow to Mr. 
Seward. 



Enclosure 1. 



Enclosure 2. 
Enclosure 3. 



Mr. Bigelow to Mr. 
Seward. 

Mr. Hay to Mr. 
Seward. 

Mr. Seward to the 
Marquis de Mon- 
tholon. 



1866. 
Sept. 14 



Aug. 24 
Oct. 22 



Nov. 27 

Nov. 30 
Nov. 30 

Dec. 1 

Dec. 10 

Dec. 11 

Dec. 11 

Dec. 7 

Dec. 13 



Dec. 5 
Dec. 5 

Dec. 17 



Subject. 



May 

May 

May 
May 
May 

Aug. 

Aug. 



16 



13 



13 



10 



Mr. Stanton to Mr. Seward : Transmits letter of Mr. Gauche 
to General Sheridan complaining of a forced loan levied 
upon him at Miitamoras. 

Mr. Gauche's letter to General Sheridan, above referred to : 
Calls upon his government for its protection against forced 
loans. 

Acknowledges receipt of his note of 20th instant ; these forced 
loans are levied by the imperial officers ; will forward the 
documents to his government, who, doubtless, will do full 
justice to Mr. Gauche and other citizens of the United 
States aggrieved. 

No. 16. Occupation of Mexican territory by United States 

troops. 

[Telegram.J In reference to the contemplated occupation of 
Matamoras by General Sedgwick ; the course he intends 
to pursue in such a contingency. 

[Telegram.] Sheridan's action is approved by the President ; 
that of Sedgwick is not. 

Report of General Sedgwick's occupation of Matamoras is 
premature ; Sheridan's proceedings in the premises ; mat- 
ters will not be complicated in any event. 

[Telegram.] Leaves for the Rio Grande to look into Ortega 
affair and Sedgwick trouble ; thinks he can settle those 
matters, &c, &c. 

His report on the state of affairs on the Rio Grande, and his 
proceedings relative to the occupation of Matamoras by 
General Sedgwick ; the city now in possession of General 
Escobedo. 

[Telegram.] Same subject as the above; release of General 
Ortega. 

A more full and detailed report of the condition of affairs at 
Matamoras and its occupation by United States troops. 

Copy of an article published in the Rio Grande Courier, 
dated at Brownsville, Texas. 

Transmits extracts from the Tribune and "World, of New 
York, respecting the occupation of Matamoras by General 
Sedgwick ; calls attention of the Secretary to this matter, 
though he has no official report of it, and is satisfied that 
the United States government has not ordered such a pro- 
ceeding. 

Special despatch to the New York World, from Brownsville, 
on same subject as above. 

Despatch to the Tribune ; same subject as above, giving an 
account of the repulse of the liberal forces attacking Mata- 
moras. 

Acknowledges receipt of his note of the 13th instant ; the pro- 
ceedings of General Sedgwick in occupying Matamoras 
are without the authority of the United States ; they 
have consequently been disallowed; General Sedgwick 
has been suspended from command and subjected to disci- 
pline. 

j?o. 17. — Evacuation of Mexico by the French. 

Communicates an extract from La France ; no more Austrian 
volunteers going to Mexico ; extracts from diplomatic cor- 
respondence transmitted ; arrival of General Almonte as 
Maximilian's minister to France. 

Extract from Memorial Diplomatique : The good offices of 
the United States solicited with reference to reprisals, on the 
part of Juarez ; limit of the occupation of Mexico by the 
French army. 

Extract from same : Austria will send no more troops to Max- 
imilian. 

Article from the Journal des Debats, on the protest of Mr. 
Se ward against Austria's sendingmore volunteers to Mexico. 

His interview with the minister of foreign affairs of France, 
with reference to the withdrawal of the French army from 
Mexico. 

Sundry paragraphs published in Paris journals respecting the 
departure of Maximilian's wife for Mexico, and the object of 
her mission ; the effect of the visit of the princess in Paris. 

Calls attention of the French minister to the two decrees of 
Maximilian, appointing General Osmont and Mr. Fnant as 
members of his cabinet ; Congress and people of the United 
States may not be satisfied with these proceedings, in view 
of the engagement by France to withdraw her forces from 
Mexico. 



730 



INDEX 




Mr. Hay to Mr. 
Seward. 



Mr. Seward to Mr. 
Bigelow. 



1866. 
Aug. 17 

Aug. 24 



do Oct. 8 



do. .. 



Mr. Seward to Mr. 
Stanton. 



Mr. Seward to Mr. 
Campbell. 

Enclosure 1 



Enclosure 2. . . 



Mr. Bigelow to Mr. 
Seward. 



Mr. Seward to Mr. 
Campbell. 



Enclosure 1. 
Enclosure 2. 



Mr. Seward to Mr. 
Campbell. 



General Sheridan to 
General Grant. 

Mr. Campbell to 
Mr. Seward. 



Nov. 23 



Nov. 8 



Nov. 23 



Mr. Seward to Mr. 

Campbell. 
Mr. Campbell to | Nov. 21 

Mr. Seward. 



Oct. 2 



Aug. 28 



Oct. 20 

Oct. 26 

Oct. 30 

Nov. 8 

Nov. 9 

Nov. 9 



...do 



Mr. Seward to Mr 
Campbell. 



Nov. 23 
Nov. 30 



Encloses the two decrees of Maximilian of July 26, 1866, re- 
ferred to above. 

Visit of the Princess Charlotte to France ; interview with the 
minister for foreign affairs ; no change in the policy of 
France respecting the withdrawal of her troops from 
Mexico. 

Transmitting copies of the President's proclamation of August 
17, declaring null and void a decree of Prince Maximilian 
closing certain Mexican ports. 

A copy of President Johnson's proclamation is here annexed 

The feeling in the United States touching the withdrawal of 
the French expedition from Mexico; the government be- 
lieves France will carry out her engagements ; no truth in 
the reports of supposed relations with General Santa Anna ; 
we wait the evacuation. 

The President pleased with the friendly disposition of the 
Marquis de Moustier ; departure of Mr. Campbell as United 
States minister to Mexico ; encloses copy of instructions to 
Mr. Campbell, to be used by Mr. Bigelow at his own dis- 
cretion. 

Communicates correspondence with France, and instructions 
to Mr. Campbell, respecting the Mexican question ; Mr. 
Stanton to give such instructions to the army of observation 
as the safety of the United States may require. 

Transmits copies of correspondence relative to the change in 
the period of the withdrawal of the French troops from 
Mexico ; this is not satisfactory to the President ; no new 
instructions needed by him ; hopes for a favorable solution. 

Mr. Bigelow to Mr. Seward : The Mexican question ; change 
of policy of the Emperor Napoleon as to the period of the 
withdrawal of the French army ; his interview with Napo- 
leon on this subject; mission of General Castelnau to Mex- 
ico, and its object ; Napoleon abandons Maximilian. 

Mr. Seward to Mr. Bigelow : The United States expects that 
France will carry out the evacuation of Mexico as agreed 
upon, and thus prevent further complications ; we cannot 
admit of modifications now. 

Relative to the evacuation of Mexico by the French army, 
audits delay; it is expected the whole force will leave in 
March, 1867. 

No. 18. — Correspondence with the United States legation to 
Mexico. « 

Transmits to him letter of Consul Ulrich and petition of 
United States citizens, merchants at Monterey, Mexico, re- 
specting forced loans levied upon them ; citizens of United 
States held to service in Mexican army against their inclina- 
tion ; instructs Mr. Campbell to proceed to Mexico at once 
and attend to these matters. 

Consul Ulrich to Mr. Seward : Sends him the petition of sev- 
eral Americans complaining of the forced loans levied upon 
them ; Americans held to service in Mexican army. 

Petition of D. D. Bramard and others, to the Secretary of 
State, complaining of the loans exacted of them at Mon- 
terey. 

Instructions as to his policy on his arrival in Mexico ; he will 
be accompanied by a general of the United States army; 
Juarez to be recognized as President. 

The President to the Secretary of War : Desires that General 
Grant shall accompany Mr. Campbell to Mexico, and give 
him the aid of his advice. 

The President to the Secretary of War : Directs that General 
Sherman shall accompany Mr. Campbell to Mexico in place 
of General Grant, who cannot go. 

Is informed that Maximilian has abdicated; change of flag of 
the troops in Mexico. 

His arrival at New York with General Sherman; no instruc- 
tions as to how he is to go to Mexico, and no vessel at his 
disposal. 

The steamer Susquehanna is ready to take him to any place 
in Mexico he may designate, and at his disposal now. 

Reports his arrival at Havana; message from Marshal Ba- 
zaine to President A. Johnson, as given by General Ma- 
gruder to Mr. Campbell. 

Cause of his delay in proceeding to his post ; his future move- 
ments towards Vera Cruz. 

His despatches 2 and 3, received ; his proceedings approved. 



2 567 



INDEX. 



731 



From whom and 
to whom. 



Subject. 



Mr. Campbell to 
Mr. Seward. 



do 

Enclosure 

Mr. Seward to Mr. 

Campbell. 
do 

Enclosure 

Mr. Campbell to 

Mr. Seward. 
Enclosure 1 



Enclosures. 
Enclosure 3. 



Mr. Seward to Mr. 

Campbell. 
Mr. Campbell to 

Mr. Seward. 
Enclosure 1 

Enclosures 

Enclosures 



Mr. Seward to Mr. 

Campbell. 
Mr. Campbell to 

Mr. Seward. 
Mr. Seward to Mr. 

Campbell. 

Mr. Campbell to 
Mr. Seward. 

Enclosure 1 

Enclosures 

Enclosure 3 

Enclosure 4 



Mr. Seward to Mr. 
Campbell. 



Mr. Seward to Mr. 
Adams. 



.do 



1866. 
Dec. 1 



Dec. 1 

Dec. 1 

Dee. 15 

Dec. 6 

Dec. 3 

Dec. 13 

Dec. 5 

Dec. 9 

Dec. 8 

Dec. 27 

Dec. 24 

Dec. 16 

Dec. 19 

Dec. 15 

Dec. 29 

Dec. 24 

Dec. 23 

Dec. 31 

Dec. 17 

Dec. 17 

Dec. 17 

Dec. 13 

1867. 

Jau. 14 



1864. 
Dec. 21 



1865. 
Feb. 



Reports his arrival at Vera Cruz on the 29th of November ; 
that Maximilian was still at Orizaba ; that no French troops 
had left Mexico ; and that, in accordance with his instruc- 
tion, he would not land there. (No. 4. ) 

Encloses a proclamation published on the morning of Decem- 
ber 1, at Vera Cruz, stating that Maximilian had decided to 
remain in Mexico. (No. 5.) 

Proclamation of the political prefect of Vera Cruz, announc- 
ing that Maximilian would stay in Mexico. 

Acknowledges the receipt of despatches Nos. 4 and 5. (No. 10.) 

Transmits a telegraph from Mr. Bigelow stating that the 
French troops would be withdrawn from Mexico in March 
next. (No. 7.) 

Telegram from Mr. Bigelow containing the preceding infor- 
mation. 

Reports his arrival at Tampico and Brazos, and his intention 
to proceed to Monterey. 

Letter of Mr. Campbell to Seiior Lerdo de Tejada, minister 
of foreign affairs of Mexico, informing him that he has been 
appointed United States minister to Mexico, and stating his 
intention to go and meet, as soon as possible, President 
Juarez. 

Communication from Mr. Campbell to Seiior Lerdo de Tejada, 
enclosing a copy of the foregoing, and reporting his arrival 
at Brazos, and his intention of going to Monterey. 

Communication from Mr. Campbell to General Escobedo, 
acknowledging one from General Escobedo ; making an ap- 
pointment to call on him with General Sherman the next 
day, and expressing the views of the United States govern- 
ment on Mexican affairs. 

Acknowledging the receipt of the preceding communica- 
tion. (No. 11.) 

Reporting his arrival at New Orleans, and his motives for re- 
turning to the United States. 

Communication from General Escobedo to Mr. Campbell, 
stating that urgent military duties required him to leave at 
once for the interior. 

Communication from Mr. Campbell to General Berriozabal, 
informing him of his determination to return to the United 
States. 

Letter from Mr. Lane, United States consul at Vera Cruz, to 
Mr. Campbell, reporting what transpired there since the 
Susquehanna left. 

Acknowledging the receipt of the preceding communica- 
tion. (No. 12.) 

Telegram announcing his arrival at New Orleans 



Instructing him to remain at New Orleans until further in- 
structions, and giving him permission to go and see his 
family. 

Claim of Captain McGaffey, of the United States schooner 
Mary Bertrand, stating that this claim was one of the 
reasons why he did not feel disposed to offer the good offices 
of the United States to the Mexican government. (No. 8.) 

Statement of Captain McGaffey about the detention at Mata- 
moras of $20,000 in silver, on board the Blary Bertrand. 

Sworn affidavit of Master J. M. Tompkins, of the same 
schooner, before Notary Public Dougherty, of Cameron 
county, Texas. 

Sworn affidavit of Charles D. Stocking, before the same no- 
tary, on the same subject. 

Telegram from Mr. Campbell and General Sherman to the 
United States consul at Matamoras, on the same subject. 

Answer to Mr. Campbell's letter in regard to the case of the 
Mary Bertrand. (No. 14.) 

No. 19. — Correspondence on the Mexican question with lega- 
tions of the United States in Europe. 

GREAT BEITAIN. 

Enclosing a despatch from the United States commercial agent 
at Belize, in regard to a proclamation of Maximilian affect- 
ing the British settlement of Honduras. (No. 1199.) 

Giving an account of the President's trip to Fortress Monroe 
to meet commissioners of the rebel authorities at Rich- 
mond. (No. 1258.) 



732 



INDEX. 



From whom and 
to whom. 



Date. 



Subject. 



Mr. Adams to Mr. 

Seward. 
do 



.do. 



Mr. Seward to Mr. 

Adams. 
Mr. Adams to Mr. 

Hunter. 



Mr. Dayton to Mr. 
Seward. 

Mr. Seward to Mr. 
Dayton. 



Mr. Seward to Mr. 
Bigelow. 

Enclosure 1 

Enclosures 

Enclosure 3 



Mr. Bigelow to Mr. 

Seward. 
Enclosure 



Mr. Bigelow to Mr. 
Seward. 

Mr. Seward to Mr. 
Bigelow. 



Mr. Bigelow to Mr. 
Seward. 



Mr. Hunter to Mr. 
Bigelow. 



Mr. Seward to Mr. 
Bigelow. 



Mr. Seward to Mr. 
Geofroy. 



Mr. Seward to M. 
Montholon. 



Enclosure 1. 
Enclosures. 



1865. 
Feb. 9 

Feb. 17 

Feb. 23 

Mar. 25 

June 2 



1864. 
Mar. 25 



April 7 



1865. 
Feb. 13 



1864. 
Nov. 22 

Nov. 2 

Oct. 30 

1865. 
Mar. 10 

Mar. 9 

Mar. 17 

Mar. 27 

Mar. 30 

Feb. 23 
April 17 



Oct. 19 



Oct. 30 



1864. 
Dec. 9 



1866. 
Aug. 16 



July 26 
July 26 



Beports the rumors circulating in Europe about European 
interference and Mexican affairs. (No. 871.) 

Effects in Europe of the news of the probability of peace 
being restored in the United States. (No. 880.) 

Stating his interview with Lord Russell in regard to the Pre- 
sident's trip to Fortress Monroe. (No. 884.) 

Consideration about the probability of peace being restored 
in the United States. (No. 1320.) 

Speculations of European politicians about European inter- 
vention in Mexico. (No. 973.) 



Communicating that M. Drouyn de Lhuys informed him that 
the negotiation of a loan on behalf of Maximilian had been 
completed. (No. 442.) 

Enclosing a resolution of the House of Representatives, of 
April 4, 1864, against the recognition of any empire in Mex- 
ico. (No. 525.) 

In regard to the seizure of powder from the United States 
schooner William Richardson, by the commander of the 
French war steamer Diamant, on the PacHic. (No. 43.) 

Statement of F. B. Elmer, United States consul at La Paz, 

on this subject. (No. 8.) 
Affidavit of George Goodrum, master of the schooner William 

Richardson, on the same subject. 
Declaration of a French officer of the steamer Diamant, of 

the seizure of one hundred barrels of powder. 

Sending a copy of his letter to the French minister of foreign 
affairs, on the seizure of that powder. (No. 49.) 

Official letter from Mr. Bigelow to M. Drouyn de Lhuys, on 
the same subject. 

Report of a conversation with M. Drouyn de Lhuys, in which 
he complained of the tone assumed by the press of the 
United States towards France. (No. 62.) 

Acknowledging the receipt of Mr. Bigelow's letter in regard 
to the seizure of powder from the schooner William Rich- 
ardson. (No. 84.) 

In regard to the collision of the United States schooner Three 
Sisters and the French transport Alhir, near Cape San An- 
tonio. (No. 96.) 

Despatch of Mr. M. D. L. Lane, United States consul at Vera 
Cruz, on the same subject. (No. 57.) 

Enclosing the debates in the Corps Legislatif, on American 
and Mexican affairs. 

Speech of M. Favre on Mexican affairs, April 10, 1865 

Speech of M. Corta on the same subject, April 11, 1865 

Speech of M. Ernest Picard, on the same subject, April 11, 1865 . 

Speech of M. Rouher, on the same subject, April 11, 1865 

Speech of M. E. Pelletan, on the United States 

Transmitting a communication from Messrs. Sears and Cox 
in regard to the seizure of powder from the schooner Wm. 
L. Richardson, instructing him to present the case to the 
French government. (No. 289.) 

Acknowledging the receipt of Mr. Bigelow's communication 
of October 13, 1865, No. 184. (No. 294.) 



FRENCH LEGATION AT WASHINGTON. 

Enclosing a communication from the War Department about 
the construction in the United States of privateers for Presi- 
dent Juarez. 

Notifying that the assumption at this time of administrative 
powers by two officers of the French army in Mexico is 
likely to be injurious to the good relations between the 
United States and France, as it is liable to be regarded by 
the people of the United States as inconsistent with the en- 
gagements France has made about the withdrawal of her 
troops. 

Order of Maximilian appointing General Osmont, chief of 
staff of the expeditionary corps, his so-called minister of 
war. 

Order of the same appointing M. Friant, intendent-in-chief 
of the exjieditionary corps, his so-called minister of finance. 



INDEX. 



733 



u 
a 

o 
6 


From whom and 
to whom. 


Date. 


Subject. 


6 

a ^ 

d 


£0 

a 


003 
004 


Mr. Motley to Mr. 
Seward. 

do 


1865. 
Feb. 13 

Feb. 26 
June 5 

Nov. 15 

Feb. 1 
Mar. 13 

April 12 
May 29 

May 31 

May 15 

June 5 
June 29 

Mar. 4 

1866. 
April 22 

1865. 
May 24 

June 2 

May 17 
Oct. 18 

1864. 
Sept. 27 

Nov. 5 
Dec. 13 

1865. 
Jan. 10 


AUSTRIA. 

Rumors circulating in Europe in regard to aggressions of 
the United States upon European States or their Ameri- 
can colonies. (No. 87.) 


639 
639 


005 


Mr. Motley to Mr. 
Hunter. 

Mr. Wright to Mr. 
Seward. 

Mr. Sanford to Mr. 
Seward. 

do 






640 


226 
227 


PRUSSIA. 

States the reported intentions of Emperor Napoleon regard- 
ing his intervention in Mexico. (No. 8.) 

BELGIUM. 

Reports that another detachment of the Belgo-Mexican Le- 
gion of 200 sailed for Vera Cruz, via St. Nazaire, on the 
14th of January, 1865. (No. 236.) 

Reports debates in the Belgian Chambers about the en- 
listment of Belgian subjects for the service of Maximilian, 
and the action taken in the premises by the Belgian govern- 
ment. (No. 246.) 

Reports further debates in the Chambers on the Mexican 
question. (No. 252.) 

Reports the effect caused in Belgium by the news of the de- 
struction of a detachment of 300 men of the Belgian Legion 
at Tacamburo, and the death of eight officers, one of them 
being a son of General Chazal, the Belgian minister of war. 
(No. 277.) 

Reporting further debates in the Belgian Chambers on the 
same subject. (No. 284.) 

ITALY. 

Giving his views about a reported alliance between France, 
Italy, and Spain to support Maximilian in Mexico. (No. 
119.) 

On the same subject, and reporting a conversation with 
General La Mamora. (No. 121.) 


.... 


641 

641 
642 


ooq. 


do . 


643 


230 
931 


do 

do 


643 
644 


232 

°33 


Mr. Marsh to Mr. 
Hunter. 

do 


645 
646 


234 


Mr. Marsh to Mr. 
Seward. 

Mr. King to Mr. 
Seward. 

do 


646 


235 
°36 


ROME. 

Conversation with Count Sartiges on the reported cession by 
Maximilian of Mexican provinces to Emperor Napoleon. 
(No. 33.) 

Apprehensions of Count Sartiges of some trouble between 
the United States and Maximilian, and his confidence in 
Mr. Seward. (No. 36.) 

Reported armed emigration from the United States to the 
support of President Juarez ; loss of Maximilian's popu- 
larity in Rome in consequence of his course towards the 
church. (No. 40.) 

Conversation with Cardinal Antonelli on Mexican affairs ; 
the cardinal does not expect Maximilian to remain in Mex- 
ico ; he advises Maximilian not to go there. (No. 41.) 

NETHERLANDS. 


.... 


647 
648 


937 


do 


649 
650 

651 


238 
239 


Mr. King to Mr. 
Hunter. 

Mr. Pike to Mr. 

Hunter. 
Mr. Pike to Mr. 

Seward. 

Mr. Campbell to 
Mr. Seward. 

do 


240 






651 


241 
040 


SWEDEN" AND NORWAY. 

Reports his interview with the King, and that J. M. Mora, 
Maximilian's representative to Sweden and Norway, pre- 
ceded him, as well as in the banquet given by Count Man- 
derstrom. (No. 3.) 

In regard to the appointment of Baron Wetterstedt as Swe- 
dish minister to Washington. (No. 7.) 

Report of a conversation with Count Manderstrom, complain- 
ing of the instructions given to Baron Wetterstedt to go to 
compliment Maximilian before coming to Washington. 
(No. 9.) 

Rectifying some mistakes of Count Manderstrom. (No. 11J . . . 




652 

653 
654 


<>43 


do 


244 


Mr. Seward to Mr. 
[ Campbell. 



734 



INDEX. 



From whom and 
to whom. 



Mr. Morris to Mr. 

Seward. 
Mr. Morris to Mr. 

Hunter. 



Mr. Seward to Mr. 
Morris. 



Mr. Morris to Mr. 
Seward. 



Mr. Hale to Mr. 
Seward. 



Mr. Seward to Mr. 

Hale. 
Mr. Hale to Mr 

Seward. 
do 

do 

Enclosure A 

Enclosure B 

Enclosure D 

Enclosure E 



Mr. Seward to Mr. 

Hale. 
Mr. Hale to Mr. 

Seward. 



Mr. Perry to Mr. 
Seward. 



Mr. Seward to Mr. 
Koberts. 



Mr. Seward to Mr. 
Campbell. 



Mr. Seward to Mr. 
Roberts. 



Mr. Roberts to Mr. 
Seward. 



Mr. Seward to Mr. 
Roberts. 



1865. 
Mar. 29 

May 18 



May 25 
Sept. 21 

Oct. 29 



Aug. 26 

Sept. 21 

Oct. 27 

Nov. 13 

Nov. 18 

Nov. 16 

Oct. 20 

Nov. 16 

Nov. 16 

Nov. 27 

Nov. 27 



1864. 
Dec. 17 



1866. 
Dec. 13 



Oct. 15 

Dec. 15 

Dec. 7 

Dec. 21 

Dec. 26 



Subject. 



TURKEY. 

Stating that no minister of any capacity will be accredited 
by the Porte to Maximilian. (No. 108.) 

Reporting the arrival at Constantinople of General Marquez 
as an envoy from the so-called Emperor Maximilian, for 
the purpose of delivering to the Sultan the order of Guada- 
lupe. (No. 115.) 

In regard to General Marquez's mission to Constantinople. 
(No. 116.) 

Instructing him to remonstrate to the Turkish government 
against the sending of more negro troops from Egypt to 
Mexico. (No. 93.) 

Reporting his conversation with Ali Pacha, minister of for- 
eign affairs of the Sultan, disclaiming all responsibility of 
the Turkish government in the sending of Egyptian troops 
to Maximilian. (No. 130.) 

EGYPT. 

Reporting the probable sailing of 900 Egyptian negroes on 
a French man-of-war for Maximilian's service in Mexico, 
and his conversation on the subject with the Pacha of 
Egypt. (No. 41.) 

Instructing him to remonstrate against the sending of such 
negroes to Mexico. (No. 13.) 

Relating to the expected sailing of 900 Egyptian negroes for 
Mexico. (No. 44.) 

Stating his belief that the intended deportation of negroes 
has been abandoned. (No. 45.) 

Reporting his action with the government of the Pacha of 
Egypt, which ended in an understanding that the 900 ne- 
groes would not sail for Mexico. 

Letter from Cherif Pacha, minister of foreign affairs of 
Egypt, to Mr. Hale, explaining the course of the Egyptian 
government on this subject. 

Letter from Mr. Hale to Cherif Pacha, asking explanations 
on the same subject. 

Letter from Mr. Hale to Cherif Pacha on the same subject 

Answer from Cherif Pacha acknowledging the receipt of the 
preceding communication. 

Approving Mr. Hale's proceedings on this subject. (No. 16) . . . 

Stating that the 900 negroes did not sail for Mexico, and he 
would have no official intercourse with Maximilian's con- 
sul general at Alexandria. (No. 48.) 



Stating that the Bey did not give his hand to the French con- 
sul at Tunis. (No. 60.) 

No. 20. — Louisiana Tehuantepec Company. 

Communicating a copy of the charter granted to the Tehuan- 
tepec Transit Company by President Juarez on the loth 
October, 1866. 

Charter of the Tehuantepec Transit Company and the seve- 
ral documents accompanying the same, showing proceed- 
ings of said company in the premises. 

Transmits copy of his letter to Mr. Roberta respecting said 
charter, and requests the minister to ask for such explana- 
tions as will give him a proper understanding of the sub- 
ject. 

Review of the correspondence of Messrs. Roberts and Har- 
gous with the State Department respecting claims of the 
Louisiana Tehuantepec Company ; the department and 
President decline to intervene in the matter, but will sub- 
mit a copy of this letter to the Mexican government ; the 
President does not doubt the good faith of the Mexican gov- 
ernment. 

Receipt of Mr. Seward's letter of the 8th instant ; insists 
upon the claims of the Louisiana Company ; accuses Presi- 
dent Juarez of bad faith towards himself and company, 
and asks that the United States withdraw their recognition 
of President Juarez and government. 

Receipt of his letter of 21st December ; has been submitted 
to tte President, who declines to accede to his wishes ; Mr. 
Campbell will submit the same to President Juarez. 



INDEX. 



735 



u 

CD 
CM 

o 
6 


From whom and 
to whom. 


Date. 


Subject. 


_6 

~ u 
6 


to 

a 




Mr. Knap to Mr. 
Seward. 


1867. 
Feb. 2 


Supplement No. 1. — Tehuantepec Transit Company. 

Refutes the statements of Mr. Roberts as to the claim of the 
Louisiana Tehuantepec Company, and submits 13 docu- 
ments to prove the legality of the title of the Tehuantepec 
Transit Company, granted by President Juarez October 
15, 1866, including the correspondence of their agent with 
the Mexican government, the charter of the company, and 
the opinions of Messrs. Gushing and Johnson in support of 
the same. 


.... 


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Notas y anexos 
a — 


Paginas. 


Notas y anexos 
de— 


Paginas. 


Ministerio de Relaciones Exteriores de M6xico 

Departamento de Estado de los Es'ados Unidos 

Consulados, legaciones, rninisterios, &c, &?., &c 


6,643 

1,720 
1,301 
7,430 


23, 791 
8,948 
1, 729 

14, 920 


1,905 

483 

1,379 

7,405 


4,834 

721 

1,951 

16, 678 




Total , 


17, 094 


49, 388 


11, 172 


24, 184 



TOTAL GENERAL. 





Notas y anexos. 




Numero. 


Paginas. 




17, 094 
11, 172 


49. 388 




24 184 








28, 266 


73, 572 



Esta correspondencia esfa distribuida en 45 voltmenes encuadernados de a folio, en la forma siguiente: cor- 
respondencia enviada al Ministerio de Relaciones de Mexico, 24 volumenes; recibida de aquel Ministerio 5; al 
Departamento de Estado de Washington, 7; de dicho Departainento2; enviada a diferentes oiicinas de Mexico 
y recibida de las mismas, 3; cartas particulares recibidas, 4. 
El ano de 1860 puede tomarse como termino medio del trabajo ordinario de la Legacion en tiempos norniales. 
Durante todo el tiempo comprendido en la tabla precedente, el Sr. Romero ha estado de gefe de la Legacion 
Mexicana. Lieg6 a Washington el 24 de Diciembre de 1859 de Secretario de la Legacion, siendo Ministro 
ent6nces el Sr. Don Jose M. Mata. El 14 de Agosto de 1860 salio el Sr. Mata de Nueva York para Vera Crnz, 
dejando acreditado al Sr. Romero, como encargado interino de negocios ante el Departamento de Estado. El 
Sr. Romero present6 sns credenciales a Mr. William Henry Trescott, sub-secretario de Estado. encargado 
entonces del Departamento. El 26 de Mayo de 1862 present6 ei Sr. Romero al Departamento de Estado, las 
credenciales, firmadas el 3 de Abiil por el Sr. Gral. Don Manuel Doblado, Ministro de Relaciones de Mexico, 
que lo acreditaban como Encargado de Negocios cerca del Gobierno delos Estados Unidos. El 23 de Abril de 
1893, notified el Sr. Romero a Mr. Seward que habia recibido licencia para regresar a Mexico, de la cualus6a 
poco. Se despidi6 del Presidente Lincoln el 27; sali6 de Washington el dia siguiente, y de Nueva York el 16 
de Mayo inmediato. 

El 23 de Octubre -de 1863, volvio el Sr. Romero fi. Nueva York como Enviado Extraordinario y Ministro 
Plenipotenciario de Mexico en los Estados Unidos, y present6 sus credenciales al Presjdente Lincoln el 29 del 
mismo mes, permanecicndo desde entonces en Washington con ese caracter. 

De 2,155 dias que el Sr. Romero ha estado en los Estados Unidos (co^itando cinco alios completes, 139 dias en 
1860 y 190 en 1863) ha pasado fuera de Washington y siempre en asuntos del servicio 306 dias, (-n la forma 
siguiente; en I860, 6; en 1861, 31; en 1862,36; en 1863, 29; en 1864, 96; en 1865, 89; y en 1866, 19; habiendo 
pasado en Washington, 1849. 

Mientras el Sr. Romero estuvo de encargado do negocios, no tuvo mas que un agregado en la Legacion. El 
Sr. Don Mariano Degollado primeio y el Sr. Don J. Escobar y Armendariz despues. En algunos intervalos 
estuvo solo. Desde que volvi6 de Ministro ha tenido dos 6 tres empleados, y el Sr. Mariscalha estado durante 
todo ese tiempo de Secretario de la Legacion. 

El numero total de entrevistas oficiales que el Sr. Romero tuvo con el Secretario de Estado el Hon. William 
H. Seward, del 2 de Setiembre de 1861 al 31 de Diciembre de 1866, es de 109, en la forma que sigue; como 
encargado de negocios (hasta el 23 de Mayo de 1863,) 63; como Ministro (desde el 27 de Octubre de 1863,) 46; 
y 26 con el Presidente de los Estados Unidos, sobre asuntos oficiales, a saber: con el Presidente Buchanan, 3; 
con el Presidente Lincoln, 15, y con el Presidente Johnson, 8. Total 135. 

Durante los dos alios y medio que el Gobierno republicano de Mexico permaneci6 en el Estado de Chihuahua, 
sus comunicaciones con el resto de la,Rc j publica y del mundo fueron enteramente cortadas, y estaba ateuido u 
su Legacion en Washington para saber lo que pasaba en el centro, en el sur y el oriente de Mexico, en los 
Estados Unidos y Europa, Toda la correspondencia para el gobierno mexicano, incluyendo los periodicos para 
el Presidente Juarez y su gabinete, tenian que enviarse al Sr. Romero. Esto hacia que aumentaran niuy con- 
Kiderablemente las labores de la Legacion, pues era necesario mantener una correspondencia activa con algunos 
generales m>e-x ; canos en campana y con amigos de Mexico en Francia, otros puntos en Europa y en la America 
del Sur. Ademas de esto y de los debures ordinarios de Ministro, el Sr. Romero ha estado encargado de la comjjra 
de armas y municiones, fietamento de vapores que llevasen a Mexico el material de guerra, la inipresion de bonoa 
mexicanos. la negoeiacion de ellos en el inercado y el hacer contratos con otros objetos, la circulacion del 
pericdico oficial del gobierno mexicano, &c, &c. 

El aprecio con que el Gobierno delos Estados Unidos havisto la correspondencia del Sr. Romero aparecedel 
hecho de que el Congreso ha pedido varias veces al Presidente, de una manera especial, las notas del Si'. Romero, 
y de que el Presidente le ha enviado, de 489 notas que el Sr. Romero ha dirigido al Departamento de Estado, 371, 
del rnodo siguiente : de 1861, 27; de 1862, 35; de 1663, 21; de 1864, 54; de 1865, 115; de 1866, 119. El namero 
total de anexos enviados y publicados es de 1,204. 

El numero total de mensajes enviados por el Presidente al Congreso durante el tiempo comprendido en la 
tabla precedente, es de 27, a saber: en 1862, 3; en 1863, 4; en 1864, 1; en 1865, 3; y en 1866. 16. 

EULALIO DEGOLLADO, Huo, 

Secretar io particular. 

Washington, Febrero 24 de 1867. 



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2,524 
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201 

741 

908 

489 

1,297 

1,816 

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consulates of Mexico in 
the United States, Mex- 
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departments of the Mex- 
ican government, and 
other officials of Mexico. 


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1,975 
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201 
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AGGREGATE STATEMENT OF WORK. 





Letters and en- 
closures to — 


Pages. 


Letters and en- 
closures from — 


Pages. 




6,643 
1, 720 
1,301 
7,430 


23, 791 
8,948 
1,729 

14, 920 


1,905 

483 

1,379 

7,405 


4,834 


Department of State of the United*States 


721 
1,951 




16, 678 




Total : 


17, 094 


49, 388 


11, 172 


24, 184 







GRAND TOTALS. 





Letters and enclosures. 


- 


Number. 


Pages. 




17, 094 
11, 172 


49, 388 




24, 184 








28, 266 


73, 572 



This correspondence is contained in 45 bound large volumes, as follows : Correspondence to the State De- 
partment, of Mexico, 24 volumes; from that department, 5; to the State Department at Washington, 7; from 
the Washington State Department, 2; to and from different Mexican officials, 3; and private letters received, 4. 

The year 1860 can be taken as an average of the ordinary work of the legation in normal times. During all 
the time embraced in the preceding statement Mr. Romero has been at the head of the Mexican legation. He 
arrived in Washington on the 24th of December, 1859, as seeretai-y of legation, Jose M. Mata being then the 
minister. On the 14th of August, 1860, Mr. Mata left New York for Vera Cruz, accrediting Mr. Romero as 
charge d'affaires ad interim to the State Department. Mr. Romero presented his letters of credence on the 16th 
to Mr. William Henry Trescott, Assistant Secretary of State, then Acting Secretary. On the 26th of May, 
1862, Mr. Romero presented his credentials to the Department of State as charge d'affaires near the govern- 
ment of the United States, they being signed by General Doblado, minister of foreign affairs of Mexico, on the 
3d of April. On the 23d of April, 1863, Mr. Romero notified Mr. Seward that ho had received a leave of 
absence of which he would avail himself. He took leave of President Lincoln on the 27th ; left Washington the 
next day, and New York on the 16th of May following. 

Mr. Romero returned to New York on the 23d of October, 1863, as envoy extraordinary and minister pleni- 
potentiary from Mexico to the United States, and presented his credentials to President Lincoln on the 29th of 
the same month, having since remained in Washington in that character. 

Out of 2,155 days that Mr. Romero has been in the United Slates (counting five full years, 139 days in 1860 
and 190 in 1863) he has only spent out of Washington, and always on official business, 306 days, as follows: 
in 1860, 6; in 1861, 31; in 1862, 36; in 1863, 29; in 1864, 96; in 1865, 89; and in 1866, 19; having passed in 
Washington 1,849 days. 

While Mr. Romero was acting as charge d'affaires he only had one attache to the legation ; Mr. Mariano 
Degollado first, and Mr. J. Escobar y Armendariz afterwards. He was at some intervals alone. Since he 
returned as full minister he has had two or three assistants, Mr. Mariseal having been during all that time the 
secretary of legation. 

The total number of official interviews which Mr. Romero had with the Secretary of State, the Hon. 
William H. Seward, from the 2d of September, 1861, to the 31st of December, 1866, is 109, as follows : As 
charge d'affaires, (to the 23d of May, 1863.) 63 ; as minister, (from the 27th of October, 1863,) 46 ; and 26 with 
the President of the United States on official business, as follows : with President Buchanan, 3 ; with Presi- 
dent Lincoln, 15; with President Johnson, 8. Total, 135. 

During the two years and a half that the republican government of Mexico was in the State of Chihuahua 
their communication with the republic and the outer world was entirely cut off, and they depended upon their 
legation at Washington to hear from the central, southern, and eastern parts of Mexico, from the United States 
and Europe. All the mails for the Mexican government, including newspapers for President Juarez and his 
cabinet, had to be sent to Mr. Romero, the duties of the legation increasing thereby considerably, as it was 
necessary to keep an active correspondence- with several Mexican generals in the field, an<#with friends of 
Mexico in Franca and other places in Europe and South America. Presides this, and the regular functions 
of a minister, Mr. Romero has been charged with the purchase of arms 'and munitions of war, the chartering 
of steamers to carry to Mexico the war material, the printing of Mexican bonds, and the negotiation of them in 
the market, and the making of contracts for several other purposes, the circulation of the official paper of the 
Mexican government, &c, &c. 

The appreciation by the United States government of Mr. Romero's correspondence is shown by the 
fact that Congress has often asked the President, in a special manner, for Mr. Romero's letters, and 
the President nas sent out of 489 letters, which Mr. Romero has addressed to the State Department, 371, in 
the following manner: of 1861, 27; 1862, 35; 1863, 21; 1864, 54; 1865, 115; 1866, 119. Total number of 
enclosures sent to Congress and published, 1,204. 

The total number of messages on Mexican affairs sent by the President to Congress during the time em- 
braced in the preceding statement is 27, ■ as follows : in 1662, 3 ; in 1863, 4 ; in 1864, 1 ; iu 1865, 3 ; and in 
1866, 16. 

EULALIO DEGOLLADO, Jr., 
i Private Secretary. 

Washington, February 24, 1867. 



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